Tooth extractions are a common dental procedure used by dentists to save other teeth from harm. Dr. Naguib and his team reserve tooth extractions as a final effort to save your teeth, after other restorative dental options are considered. This is because your natural teeth structure is the best line of defense against bacteria.
Dr. Karim Naguib and the dental care team at Premier Dental Care can help improve your oral health. Learn about the reasons we conduct tooth extractions below. Receive general dental treatments in our Palmdale, CA, or Lancaster, CA, office today.
Reasons for Tooth Extraction
Some common reasons for extraction can include:
- Periodontal Disease: Periodontitis or gum disease can damage teeth and gums, eventually causing them to decay or fall out. Patients with excessive tooth or gum damage may need a tooth extraction to prevent the disease from spreading further.
- Severe Tooth Decay: Tooth extraction may be the only treatment option for patients in advanced stages of tooth decay. Extraction is used to prevent decay from spreading further and causing more damage to the teeth and gums.
- Overcrowding: Overcrowded teeth can lead to bite disorders, crooked teeth, excessive wear on tooth enamel, and jaw pain. Overcrowding can also increase the risk of tooth decay because it can be difficult to clean between crooked teeth. Removing overcrowded teeth can help prevent decay and eliminate jaw pain.
- Impacted Wisdom Tooth: Impacted wisdom teeth may cause tooth or gum infection, tooth pain, or tooth damage to neighboring teeth. Patients who are in their late teens or early 20s are the most likely candidates for wisdom teeth removal.
The Tooth Extraction Procedure
Dr. Naguib will use a local anesthetic to numb the treated area to minimize tooth sensitivity. After extraction, the open area will be cleaned and then packed with gauze. Dr. Naguib may recommend affordable dental implants, dental bridges, or dentures to replace a missing tooth or teeth. Restorative options not only improve the aesthetics of your smile but can help prevent further gum and tooth problems.
Request an Appointment
Prevent overcrowding, tooth or jaw pain, and infection through a tooth extraction. The team at Premier Dental Care aims to provide comfortable care for patients of all ages.
Call our Lancaster office at (661) 948-6700 or schedule a dental visit to our Lancaster dentist office online. You can call our Palmdale office at (661) 273-6565 or schedule a visit to our Palmdale dentist office online.
Tooth Extraction FAQs
What should I do to prepare for a tooth extraction?
You’ll need to avoid eating or drinking for a certain amount of time before the procedure. We’ll be able to give you more information at your consultation. The time can depend on your extraction type and the sedation your oral surgeon or dentist plans to use.
When can I eat after a tooth extraction?
You can start to eat a few hours after your extraction. However, you should stick to liquids or soft foods like pudding or oatmeal. Stick to these soft foods for the first few days after the extraction. After that, you can go back to your normal diet. However, for a few weeks, try to avoid chewing in the area where your oral surgeon completed the tooth extraction.
What should I avoid after a tooth extraction?
First, avoid straws. These can disturb the clot forming in the hole where your tooth was. Next, avoid alcohol and hot beverages. They can increase swelling in the area and slow the healing process. Last, avoid smoking. This can break down the clot that’s trying to form. You should avoid all of these things for a few weeks after your extraction.
How painful is a tooth extraction?
Pain from a tooth extraction can vary from patient to patient. Most dentists use local anesthesia to numb the area around the tooth. You may feel some pressure or tugging sensations, but you shouldn’t feel sharp pain. After the anesthesia wears off, there might be some discomfort and swelling. You can manage any discomfort you may experience with over-the-counter pain medication.
Should I take a day off work after a tooth extraction?
Most dentists and oral surgeons recommend taking the day off after a tooth extraction. Taking off at least one day after your tooth extraction will allow for healing and recovery. Additionally, taking the day off will allow you to follow your dentist’s post-operative instructions. Each patient’s healing process may vary. Contact your dentist if you have any concerns.
How long does it take to recover from a tooth extraction procedure?
The recovery period following a tooth extraction can vary from patient to patient. The recovery time will also depend on the complexity of the extraction. Generally, you can expect the extraction site to heal within 1 to 2 weeks. You will feel much better 48 to 78 hours after the procedure.
Complete bone and soft tissue healing may take weeks or months. To ensure a smooth recovery, follow your dentist’s instructions, avoid smoking or using a straw, and don’t engage in strenuous activities. Good oral hygiene and a diet of soft foods can also help expedite healing. Keep in mind that each patient’s healing times may differ.