While our team does everything possible to avoid removing a tooth, sometimes, it’s unavoidable. When preserving your smile requires extracting a tooth, Lifetime Dental of Gainesville is here to ensure it’s done safely and comfortably. Our goal is to protect your oral health while providing you with the peace of mind you deserve during your dental procedures.
Why Are Tooth Extractions Necessary?
Our first priority is always to save your natural teeth whenever possible. But sometimes, trying to restore a tooth could actually cause more harm than good. Reasons for extractions include:
- Severe Tooth Decay or Damage: When a tooth is beyond saving with restorative methods.
- Impacted Teeth: Such as wisdom teeth that are trapped under the gums.
- Orthodontic Preparation: To make space for teeth alignment.
- Preparation for Dentures or Implants: Removing teeth that would interfere with prosthetics.
The Tooth Extraction Process
The idea of having a tooth removed can feel unsettling. However, your comfort is our top priority. Before the procedure begins, Dr. Her will thoroughly numb the area with a strong local anesthetic so you remain comfortable, and if you need extra help relaxing, we offer safe sedation options to put you at ease.
There are two main types of extractions. If your tooth has fully erupted, a simple extraction is often all that’s needed. With gentle precision, the tooth is carefully loosened and removed, often more smoothly than patients expect. If a tooth is impacted beneath the gums, a surgical approach may be required. In these cases, Dr. Her may make a small incision or gently section the tooth to remove it in parts. Every smile is unique, and we’ll explain your treatment clearly so you always feel informed, supported and confident in your care.
Aftercare for Tooth Extractions
Your recovery is a priority, so we provide you with comprehensive aftercare instructions, including:
- Using prescribed medications and cold compresses to manage swelling.
- How to change out gauze pads and minimize bleeding.
- Maintaining a soft food diet.
- Avoiding smoking and strenuous activities to promote healing.
Understanding the Cost of Tooth Extractions
Factors influencing the cost include the type of extraction needed and the complexity of the case. The first step is to schedule an exam with our team, and then we can determine the treatment plan for you. There are some factors that can also influence the price, such as the type of tooth. Teeth that are farther back in the mouth have more roots and are usually more difficult to extract. However, we offer flexible payment plans and work with most insurance providers to ease financial concerns.
Your Comfort Comes First
Extractions often fall under dental insurance coverage, though out-of-pocket expenses can vary. Our practice works with you to maximize your benefits and offers flexible payment options.
No, the use of local anesthesia ensures a pain-free procedure during the extraction. We also offer sedation options to help patients relax if needed. However, you might feel some soreness for a few days afterward. Closely follow your aftercare instructions to prevent infection and promote quick healing.
Tooth extractions are performed when there is no viable option to save a tooth due to severe decay or damage beyond repair, impacted teeth such as problematic wisdom teeth, preparation for orthodontic treatment or dentures, or teeth that could cause overcrowding.
A tooth extraction is performed under local anesthesia to numb the area and prevent pain. For visible teeth, a simple extraction is done using instruments to loosen and remove the tooth, while surgical extraction is required for teeth that are not easily accessible, involving small incisions for safe removal.
Recovery typically lasts a few days to a week, depending on the complexity of the extraction and individual healing factors.
Luckily, tooth extractions today are considered to be extremely safe. However, procedures of any kind come with some risks. For tooth extractions, the primary one is infection, which can spread when left untreated. Dry socket is another risk, which can be painful and delay the recovery process. To prevent issues like these, your dentist will provide you with specific aftercare instructions, as well as a few common symptoms to look out for. This way, if anything changes in your healing process, we can address it right away.
Take the Next Step Towards Safe Dental Care
Whether it’s a planned procedure or an emergency, you can trust Lifetime Dental of Gainesville to provide expert care for tooth extractions. Call us today at (770) 536-6688 or visit 1419 Pearce Cir, Gainesville, GA 30501 to schedule your consultation.