What is a tooth extraction?
A tooth extraction is a surgical tooth removal performed by the Tustin Dental Center team on-site. Although the goal is always to help you keep your natural teeth whenever possible, there are certain situations where extraction is unavoidable.
Common reasons for tooth extraction include:
- Severe tooth decay
- Traumatic tooth damage
- Broken tooth
- Severe periodontal disease (gum disease)
- Impacted (buried) wisdom teeth
- Major tooth malformation
- Overcrowded mouth (preparation for orthodontic care)
There are many cases where you could have avoided tooth extraction simply by having regular dental exams and teeth cleanings at Tustin Dental Center.
What are the signs I may need a tooth extraction?
Many symptoms could indicate a serious tooth problem that might require extraction, including:
- Bleeding when you brush and/or floss
- Loose adult tooth
- Severe tooth pain
- Severe tooth sensitivity
- Teeth fitting together differently
Any other sudden change in your way your teeth feel or look can be an indicator that you need treatment and possibly extraction, so reach out for help right away.
What happens during my tooth extraction?
The Tustin Dental Center team administers local anesthetic to numb the area of your mouth where you're having the extraction, which keeps you pain-free during the process. You may also get sedation to help you relax, particularly if you're having impacted wisdom tooth removal or another complex type of tooth extraction.
What should I do after my tooth extraction?
It's very important to follow all the instructions from the Tustin Dental Center team after your tooth extraction. You may get a prescription for an antibiotic after your tooth extraction. Antibiotics prevent infection, so it's essential you finish the whole prescription.
For more complex tooth extractions, like wisdom tooth removal, you may get a prescription for pain medicine. Be sure to take this medication as directed and never take more than you need.
The Tustin Dental Center team may advise you to use salt water mouth rinses, to be cautious when brushing your teeth, and to avoid using straws until you're fully healed.
For tooth extractions from a team of caring specialists, call Tustin Dental Center, or use the online scheduling tool today.
