Lovett Dental Beaumont is a one-stop-shop for dental services in our community. One of the reasons people visit our office is to have a tooth extracted. We understand that many patients are nervous when they hear that they might need to have a tooth pulled. Our dentists are committed to making sure our patients have access to modern sedation dentistry. Our knowledgeable and compassionate staff will be happy to answer any questions about any of our dental services.
What Are the Most Common Reasons for Having a Tooth Pulled?
There are a few common reasons why someone might require tooth removal. Three common reasons include:
- Tooth Decay – This is the most common reason why someone might require a tooth extraction. A poor diet, lack of flossing, and poor brushing habits can all contribute to tooth decay over time. When cavities are allowed to progress, bacteria might reach the tooth’s center causing intense pain and infection.
- Overcrowding – Overcrowding can impact a patient’s bite in addition to damaging some of the surrounding teeth. In this case, an oral health professional might recommend teeth extractions to fix overcrowding.
- Gum Disease – Finally, gum disease also plays an important role in the health of the mouth. If gum disease is allowed to spread, this can remove the support that the teeth need to remain anchored in the jaw.
These are just a few of the most common reasons why a dentist might recommend having one or more teeth removed. When a tooth needs to be removed, it’s important not to hesitate or delay the process. Not only can the tooth itself further decay but it can damage the healthy teeth around it the longer it is allowed to be an issue. Fortunately, at Lovett Dental Beaumont, we offer cosmetic dental options to help clients maintain the look and feel of their smile.
How Tooth Extractions Are Performed
There are two major ways that an oral health professional may decide to remove a tooth. These include:
- A Simple Extraction – This is the most common manner in which a tooth might be removed. First, the tooth is loosened using an instrument called an elevator. After the tooth is loose, an oral health professional will use forceps to take the tooth out of the jaw.
- A Surgical Extraction – If the tooth has not yet broken through the gum, a dental surgeon will perform something called a surgical extraction. The first step is to numb the tooth with a local anesthetic. Then, an incision is made in the gum tissue. Finally, the dentist will remove the tooth after enlarging the socket to make the process easier.
A dental professional at our general dentistry practice will clearly explain the process before it begins.
The Recovery Process
After a tooth has been removed, it is normal for a patient to be sore for a few days. The dentist might recommend over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications to make the process easier. If this is not enough, your dentist might prescribe stronger pain medication. These medications are used sparingly because of their potential side effects.
Patients might also have to limit their diet for a while following dental extraction. Depending on the number and locations of the removed teeth, the dentist will clearly explain exactly what the patient can and cannot eat. Rely on the guidance of a local health professional for every tooth extraction.
Contact Lovett Dental Beaumont for All Your Tooth Extraction Needs
If you are looking for comprehensive dental services, including teeth extractions in your area, look no further than Lovett Dental Beaumont. Our dentists and hygienists place the needs of our patients ahead of all other concerns. We would be happy to do the same for you as well. Contact us today at 409-924-8100 to learn more.