Tooth Extractions in Boca Raton, FL
At Dental Care of Boca Raton, we will try to save and restore your natural tooth structure as much as possible. However, when a tooth is severely decayed or infected and cannot be repaired with a filling or other restorative dental treatment, tooth extraction may be necessary to prevent further damage to your oral health.
When Are Tooth Extractions Necessary?
Severe tooth decay, impacted wisdom tooth, periodontal disease, and orthodontic treatment are some of the most common reasons for tooth extraction.
1. Severe Tooth Decay or Infection
Tooth extractions may be necessary if a tooth is too damaged to be repaired or if the tooth has an infection that cannot be treated with a root canal procedure. A severe infection or tooth decay can cause irreparable damage to a tooth, making it necessary for the tooth to be extracted. If left untreated, the infection can spread and cause further damage to surrounding teeth and gums.
2. Advanced Periodontal Disease
An advanced stage of gum disease is a serious condition that occurs when the gums become inflamed and infected due to bacteria in plaque buildup. This inflammation causes the gums to pull away from the teeth, creating pockets that trap more bacteria and causes bone loss. When this happens, the teeth become loose and may need to be extracted.
3. Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Another reason why your dentist may recommend a tooth extraction is if you have an impacted wisdom tooth. An impacted tooth is a tooth that is unable to break through the surface of gums for various reasons. Wisdom teeth are the last set of permanent teeth to erupt, and they often become impacted due to a lack of space in the jaw. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause severe pain, swelling, and infection. If not removed, they can lead to more serious problems, such as cysts or tumors.
Types of Tooth Extractions?
There are two types of tooth extractions: simple and surgical. Simple extractions are performed on teeth that can be easily seen in the mouth, while surgical extractions are used for teeth that are impacted or cannot be seen.
During a simple extraction, your dentist will use special tools to loosen the tooth and then remove it using dental forceps from its socket. For a surgical extraction, your dentist may need to make an incision in the gum tissue to access the tooth and then remove it. After the tooth is removed, your dentist will place gauze pads in the tooth socket to stop any bleeding and to help a clot to form.
After a Tooth Extraction
After your tooth extraction, it is essential to follow your dentist’s instructions for care. Aftercare instructions are important to help ensure a successful recovery and to reduce the risk of infection.
Your dentist may recommend that you:
1Avoid strenuous activities for a few days to prevent the blood clot from becoming dislodged, causing a dry socket.
2Apply an ice pack to the outside of your cheek to help reduce swelling.
3Avoid drinking through a straw for at least 24 hours after the surgical procedure. Using a straw can cause the blood clot in the socket to become dislodged, leading to a dry socket.
4Avoid smoking or drinking alcoholic beverages for at least 24 hours after the dental procedure to prevent dry sockets.
5Eat soft foods and avoid chewy or solid foods for at least 24 hours after the oral surgery.
6Rinse your mouth with salt water several times daily to help keep the area clean and reduce the risk of complications.
Schedule Your Tooth Extraction Today!
A dental extraction is usually a dentist’s last resort when treating a damaged or decayed tooth, and it is only recommended when other treatment options are unavailable.
At Dental Care of Boca Raton, we use the latest technology and techniques to ensure that your tooth extraction procedure is as comfortable and stress-free as possible. If you think you may need a tooth extraction in Boca Raton, FL, contact us today to schedule an appointment. We look forward to helping you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile!