Tooth Extraction in Owensboro and Beaver Dam, KY

As your Owensboro, KY, dentist, we will always go above and beyond to save every tooth we can. Unfortunately, despite our best efforts, that’s not always possible. If trauma, infection, or even severe crowding result in the need for removal, then we’ll have to extract the tooth to fully resolve the issue. At the office of Travis Wilson DMD, we’re experienced in the expert removal of problematic teeth while ensuring you stay comfortable every step of the way. We’re always here to step in if your teeth start to bother you, plus proudly serve as your first stop for smile repair.

What is Tooth Extraction?

Tooth extraction is the complete removal of a tooth, root and all, from the socket in the jawbone. In some cases, you may have the tooth extracted to assist in orthodontic procedures or due to a lack of room in the mouth. Dentists remove wisdom teeth, for example, on a routine basis to keep them from pushing other teeth out of place or causing other complications, including painful abscesses.

Other reasons for tooth extraction include:

• Severe tooth decay
• Deep chips and cracks
• Trauma to the tooth
• Infection at the root
• Advanced gum disease

You can trust that we will always attempt to save your natural teeth whenever we can. If not, we’ll strive to make the process as painless and stress-free as possible.

Signs You Need a Tooth Extracted

In many cases, you’ll only find out that you need tooth extraction services with a visit to the dentist. While creating your care plan, we may find that extraction is the best route to take, so we can complete the rest of the steps needed to perfect your smile.

When infection or trauma result in the need for tooth extraction, you may notice the following signs:

• Severe pain
• Stiff jaw
• Swollen gums
• Obvious damage
• Teeth feel loose

Any time you notice pain in your teeth, gums, or jaw, it’s best to schedule a visit to your dentist. With an examination and x-rays, we can figure out what’s going on and suggest the right level of care for your needs. When problems are caught early enough, it’s even possible to treat the problem outright and avoid tooth extraction.

Types of Tooth Extraction

When you come in for a tooth extraction, the care process begins with a thorough exam and x-rays. The dental images help our team determine how to proceed with your extraction. Depending on the condition of the tooth, you may need either a simple or surgical extraction performed.

Simple

A simple extraction involves the removal of a tooth that’s visible and easily accessible with an elevator and dental forceps. The elevator first loosens the tooth in its socket, while the forceps assist in its complete removal. The simple extraction usually only requires local numbing medication and usually takes just a few minutes to complete after you’re fully numb.

Surgical

When a tooth breaks below the gumline or has not yet erupted, you may need a surgical extraction instead. This procedure requires your dentist to make an incision in your gums to properly reach the tooth well enough for its removal. To keep you comfortable, you’ll usually get either general anesthesia or conscious sedation instead of local numbing medication.

After removing the tooth, your dentist will have you bite down on a sterile gauze. You’ll need to leave the gauze in place for 45 minutes to help minimize bleeding and allow the wound to clot over. To keep that clot in place after it forms, avoid drinking out of a straw, smoking, or swishing anything in your mouth for at least 24 hours. Otherwise, you could end up with dry socket, which is seriously painful.

What to Watch for After a Tooth Extraction

At the end of your tooth extraction appointment, your dentist will provide aftercare instructions to follow, including things to report back to the clinic if they occur, such as:

• Fever
• Chills
• Excessive pain
• Swelling
• Cough
• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Nausea and vomiting

You’ll notice bleeding in the first 24 hours following the procedure, but it should slowly taper down. If it doesn’t, you should report that, too, so we can take a look and make sure you’re healing properly.

In most cases, the full healing process takes up to two weeks, although you can usually return to your normal activities in 24 hours. After healing up, you’ll want to consider a dental implant, bridge, or dentures to replace your missing teeth and restore your bright smile.

Need Tooth Extraction Services in Owensboro, KY? Call to Schedule Your Visit

If you suspect that you need a tooth extracted, call 270-274-3645 to schedule a visit with Travis Wilson DMD. During your call, we will help you find the earliest time available to come in and have your dentist take a look. So, please feel free to call whenever tooth pain and discomfort arises, so we can help you find relief fast.