At Clinton Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, our goal is to help our patients maintain their best smiles at all times. While we will do everything we can to help you avoid permanent tooth loss, some teeth cause more problems than they are worth. Occasionally, it will be best for your overall dental health to have a problematic tooth removed from your smile. When this happens, our team of dental professionals is here to provide you with safe and comfortable tooth extraction services. Learn more about these services below.
Tooth Extractions in Clinton, NC
Our dentists are experienced general dentists that provide tooth extraction consultations and second opinions. Tooth extractions are procedures in which problematic teeth are safely removed from your smile using an anesthetic to ensure that you do not experience intense pain or discomfort. The tooth is rocked gently until it dislodges from your soft tissues.
Our office will quarterback your tooth extraction procedure, and refer you to other local specialists if needed. At all times, we will be here for you to ensure your procedure goes according to plan.
Wisdom Teeth Removal
Many patients will develop their wisdom teeth in their late teens and early twenties. Wisdom teeth tend to cause a lot of problems because they develop long after the rest of your smile. Because of this, there is limited space for the teeth to grow into, often causing impaction or discomfort. Additionally, if your wisdom teeth are able to grow in successfully, their placement in the far back corners of your mouth make them difficult to keep clean.
This is why patients will usually opt for a tooth extraction to ensure that future dental concerns like decay or gum disease do not occur as a result of keeping their wisdom teeth. Talk to your doctor if you notice any pain or discomfort surrounding your wisdom teeth.
Tooth Replacement Options
If you require a tooth extraction due to excess dental damage or decay, we offer tooth replacement options in our office to replace the affected tooth. Our office provides dental implants and dental bridges to patients who have experienced tooth loss due to tooth extractions or otherwise. Tooth replacement options should be considered if you are having one of your permanent teeth, other than your wisdom teeth, extracted.
Maintaining a balanced bite pattern is essential to protecting your overall dental health as well as your regular speech and chewing patterns.
Tooth Extraction FAQs
What are the restrictions after a tooth extraction?
The American Dental Association recommends rinsing with a solution of 1/2 teaspoon salt and 8 ounces of warm water after waiting 24 hours post extraction. For the first day, you should avoid using a straw. Also, after your extraction it’s best to stick to soft foods like soup, pudding, yogurt, and applesauce.
How many days should a person rest after tooth extraction?
The standard recovery time for an extraction is two days. After that time has passed, you may resume your previous routine and your gums should be starting to feel more normal.
How do you prepare for a tooth extraction?
Typically, you shouldn’t eat or drink anything for 12 hours before surgery. For both before and after the procedure, this can help alleviate nausea. It is also a good idea to get plenty of rest the night before your extraction.
Can I drink water after tooth extraction?
After surgery, we recommend that you drink cold water and apply ice packs to your face and cheeks. Putting an ice pack on your mouth will reduce swelling, and numb any pain, making it much more bearable to eat and talk. It is important to stay hydrated after your procedure.
Which tooth is most difficult to extract?
Wisdom teeth that have been impacted have not erupted fully are typically the most challenging teeth to remove. They are furthest teeth back in the mouth and there is very little room to work with.
Schedule a dental exam and consultation before determining your treatment needs! If you think you need a tooth extraction in Clinton, NC, contact our office for more information on these services. We look forward to seeing you soon.