The goal of your team at Hillsborough Family & Cosmetic Dentistry is to save and preserve your natural teeth. However, there are some scenarios where it is necessary to remove a tooth. Before you undergo any procedure, especially a tooth extraction, Dr. Williamson will fully assess your oral health and create a treatment plan.
A tooth extraction may seem frightening, but it is a common general procedure. Sometimes, Dr. Williamson needs to pull a tooth to protect your oral health and halt any more damage. With the help of sedation dentistry, you should experience minimal pain and discomfort during your extraction.
Why Would You Need a Tooth Extraction?
While most people want to avoid a tooth extraction, it can be necessary for various reasons. Additionally, it can be a crucial step to preserve your oral health.
- Severe Tooth Decay: When decay reaches a point where dental fillings or root canals cannot help, it becomes necessary for Dr. Williamson to remove the affected tooth. It can be the best solution to prevent further infection.
- Infection or Gum Disease: Untreated gum disease or a severe infection can damage the bone supporting a tooth. In these cases, our dentist will need to remove the tooth in an emergency procedure. This will prevent the spread of infection and further bone loss.
- Fractured or Broken Teeth: Dr. Williamson may need to remove teeth that are fractured or broken beyond repair. In some cases, your dentist may attempt a root canal, so an extraction is the last resort. If he extracts a front tooth, he can replace it with a dental implant.
Tips for a Speedy Extraction Recovery
Your Hillsborough Family & Cosmetic Dentistry team will provide specific instructions to aid your recovery. If you follow their instructions diligently, you should have minimal problems.
- Manage Pain and Swelling: Pain and swelling are common after a tooth extraction. Over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribed medications can help manage your discomfort. Apply a cold compress to the outside of your face to also reduce swelling.
- Bite on Gauze: After the extraction, bite down on a clean gauze pad over the extraction site. This helps control bleeding and promotes clot formation.
- Rest and Avoid Strenuous Activity: Following your extraction, you need to rest and limit physical activity for at least 24 hours. This helps to aid in the healing process.
- Watch Your Diet: Stick to a soft diet for the first few days after your procedures. Foods like yogurt, applesauce, and soup are gentle for your healing gums. It helps to avoid damage to your extraction site.
- Maintain Oral Routine: It is crucial to continue brushing and flossing your teeth after an extraction. A proper oral hygiene routine prevents unnecessary plaque and bacteria from building in your mouth. However, you should be gentle around the extraction side to avoid disturbing the clot.
Now that you know why you might need an extraction, visit our Hillsborough dental office for the procedure. Request an appointment online, or call us at 919-587-8401 today.