Tooth Extractions
Tooth extractions are a common dental procedure where a tooth is removed from your mouth. At Choice Family Dentistry, our trusted dentist in Kent WA ensures that every extraction is performed with utmost care and precision to promote your oral health and comfort. Dr. Hseih, Dr. Chen, and Dr. Lu have years of experience to provide every patient with the proper care and support needed during this service.
This procedure is typically required when a tooth is damaged beyond practical repair. Here are some common reasons for tooth extractions:
Reasons for Tooth Extractions
Severe Tooth Decay or Infection: When a tooth is severely decayed or infected, repairing it might be impossible or prohibitively expensive. In such cases, extraction is often the best option to prevent the spread of infection and maintain oral health.
Advanced Gum Disease: Advanced gum disease can damage the tissues and bone structures supporting your teeth. To prevent further deterioration and maintain the health of your remaining teeth, an extraction may be necessary.
Tooth Impaction: Sometimes, a tooth may need to be extracted if it is blocking other teeth from emerging properly. This is often the case with wisdom teeth or overcrowded teeth.
Orthodontic Treatment: During orthodontic treatment, teeth may need to be extracted to create space for the proper alignment of other teeth. This ensures a successful outcome and a more aesthetically pleasing smile.
Wisdom Teeth Removal: Wisdom teeth are frequently extracted either before or after they erupt to prevent potential issues such as impaction, crowding, or infection.
What to Expect During a Tooth Extraction
As a leading dentist in Kent, WA, our team prioritizes your comfort and safety during tooth extraction procedures. Here’s what you can expect:
Anesthesia: Either Dr. Hseih, Dr. Chen, or Dr. Lu will administer a local anesthetic to numb the area around the tooth, ensuring you do not feel any pain during the extraction. You may feel pressure, but the procedure itself is typically painless.
Extraction Process: Once the area is numb, we will carefully remove the tooth. The duration of the procedure can vary but is usually completed within a few minutes.
Post-Extraction Care: Immediately after the extraction, it is normal to experience some bleeding. A piece of gauze will be placed over the extraction site to manage bleeding. You may need to change the gauze periodically, as instructed by your dentist.
Over the next 24 hours, minimal bleeding is expected, and it should taper off gradually. Follow our specific post-procedure instructions to ensure proper healing and minimize discomfort.
Recovery and Aftercare
Proper aftercare is crucial to ensure a smooth recovery and prevent complications. Here are some general guidelines:
• Avoid strenuous activity for the first 24 hours to prevent excessive bleeding.
• Do not smoke or use a straw, as this can dislodge the blood clot and delay healing.
• Rinse your mouth gently with warm salt water after 24 hours to keep the area clean.
• Take prescribed medications as directed to manage pain and prevent infection.
At Choice Family Dentistry, our trusted dentist in Kent WA is dedicated to providing excellent care and ensuring a comfortable experience during and after your tooth extraction. If you have any concerns or questions about the procedure, please do not hesitate to call our team at 253-630-8686 to schedule your consultation. Your oral health is our priority.
