When possible, we use procedures like fillings or same-day crowns to repair teeth. But what if an issue occurs that cannot be treated with a restoration? To save your smile, we may recommend a general tooth extraction. In today’s blog, your Shrewsbury, MA, dentist talks about the purpose of a tooth extraction.
When Teeth Need to Be Extracted
When do we recommend removing a tooth? As we mentioned above, when a tooth is too damaged or decayed/infected to be treated with crowns or a root canal, then extraction could prevent the spread of infection to other parts of the smile. We could also remove them to make room for orthodontic treatment, pave the way for dentures, or to take out teeth loosened by gum disease. Our team could also remove wisdom teeth before they erupt to protect the health and beauty of your smile.
Preparing Your Smile for Oral Surgery
Our team will always plan procedures like tooth removal in detail, using digital x-rays and intraoral cameras to carefully examine the area and pinpoint the position of the tooth, so we can remove it without contacting nerve tissues, blood vessels, or sinus cavities. We also know the idea can be a bit anxiety-inducing, so we also offer treatments to help you stay comfortable. For example, our team can offer a local anesthetic to the area being treated so we can numb it and keep you comfortable. If you have anxiety or special needs that complicate treatment, we could also offer sedation to help you enter a deep state of calm and relaxation, often with little or no memory of the procedure at all!
Removing the Tooth
When you are properly prepared, we will gently remove the tooth with a pair of forceps. For some, this could take as little as 30 minutes. Our team will suture the area closed and send you home with detailed instructions for the next 24 hours to ensure a complication-free healing period. We also provide any necessary prescriptions for medications to ensure you enter a deep state of calm. You will likely return to your normal routine in as little as 24 to 48 hours.
If you have any questions about how our team will conduct a safe and gentle tooth extraction, or if you want to schedule an appointment with our team, then contact our office today to learn more.
Enjoy General Tooth Extraction with Our Shrewsbury Team!
Our team is ready to help preserve the health of your smile with our custom restorative treatments! To learn more about restorative dental procedures like tooth extraction, or to schedule your next appointment, give us a call at Modern Dentistry Of Shrewsbury at (508)842-8838 today!
