Tooth Removal: Your Guide to Low-risk, Stress-free Dental Extractions
Having your tooth extracted sounds worse than it is, but tooth removal can sometimes save your oral health. For instance, if you have an overcrowded, impacted, or irreparably damaged tooth, the dentist will recommend dental extraction to resolve pain and prevent infections.
Do you need dental extraction in Spokane, Washington? Leave your worries behind! Stein Family Dentistry combines gentle techniques with powerful anesthesia and sedation options to administer painless extractions. Please schedule an appointment with Dr. Andy Stein to experience our gentle dental extractions.
Why do I need a tooth removed?
We try everything possible to save your natural teeth. Damage on the outside can be repaired with tooth fillings and dental crowns. If you have damage on the inside of your tooth (pulp), we’ll administer a root canal to save your tooth from extraction. However, saving your tooth isn’t feasible in some cases.
We’ll recommend tooth removal for the following:
- Teeth damaged or decayed beyond repair
- Impacted or troublesome wisdom teeth
- An over-retained baby tooth
- An ectopic tooth (one that has erupted where it shouldn’t)
- Advanced gum disease
- Overcrowded teeth
Sometimes, you may need tooth removal for orthodontic reasons. Dental extraction creates space for teeth to move during orthodontic treatment. Whatever the reason you need your tooth removed, you can expect a safe, quick, and painless procedure.
How do dental extractions work?
Your procedure begins with an in-depth examination with dental X-rays. The dentist establishes the location and extent of damage to determine the best way to remove your tooth. Dental extractions can be simple or surgical.
- Simple extractions: These extractions are excellent for teeth accessible in your mouth. After numbing your gums, the doctor loosens your tooth and pulls it in one piece. It’s that simple!
- Surgical extractions: If your tooth is impacted or broken at the gum line, the dentist will surgically extract it. The dentist will make a small incision on the gums and possibly remove some of the bone to access the trapped tooth. After breaking the tooth into pieces, we’ll remove each fragment and close the wound with sutures to begin recovery.
Once we remove your tooth, our team will give you post-op instructions to ensure an event-free recovery. Generally, take the prescribed medications and rest adequately after the procedure. Observe good oral hygiene, but be careful around the surgical site. Eat easy-to-chew foods and avoid spitting or using a straw to prevent dislodging the blood clot.
Should I replace the extracted tooth?
Unless it’s a wisdom or overcrowded tooth, you should replace your tooth immediately after tooth extraction. Removing your natural tooth leaves a gap that diminishes your oral function, aesthetics, and confidence. Over time, the untreated gap causes bone loss, bite misalignment, and premature tooth loss. We recommend replacing your tooth with an implant or bridge to restore oral health and appearance.
Frequently Asked Questions About Teeth Extractions
Why are wisdom teeth removed?
Wisdom teeth are the last molars to erupt, typically in the late teens and early twenties. Most wisdom teeth require removal because they become partially or fully impacted. While not all wisdom teeth need removal, we recommend extraction if they cause the following issues.
- Crowding
- Pain and swelling
- Infections
- Cysts or damage to the nearby structures
Most wisdom teeth require surgical extraction if they are impacted. Dr. Andy Stein will take X-rays to determine the need for removing wisdom teeth. Dental imaging also guides the extraction procedure to ensure safe and comfortable outcomes.
Are dental extractions painful?
Extractions may sound scary, but the procedure is extremely comfortable. We use powerful anesthetics to keep the area completely numb throughout the procedure. You may feel pressure, but not sharp pain. If you feel anything uncomfortable, let us know. We can adjust the anesthesia to your comfort level. Sedation dentistry is also available to make your dental care as stress-free as possible.
What is the recovery process like after a dental extraction?
Expect mild pain, swelling, and bruising after extraction. The side effects peak in the first 48 hours. We’ll provide medications and home remedies to help you recover more quickly. Most patients can resume their everyday activities within 1-2 days, although complex extractions may require a week to recover.
Are there risks associated with dental extractions?
Yes! Like any medical procedure, extractions have inherent risks. The most common risks include infections, dry socket, and damage to the nearby nerves. Some patients may have delayed healing or sensitivity. These side effects are rare, and our dentist minimizes them through careful execution and post-operative care.
What is a dry socket, and how can I avoid it?
A dry socket occurs when the clot inside the extraction site dissolves or becomes dislodged during the healing process. It often happens 3-5 days after extraction, and its common symptom is throbbing pain. Prevention is simple. Do not smoke and avoid drinking with a straw. Also, avoid vigorous rinsing for the first 24 hours.
What tooth replacement options are available to me?
We recommend replacing the extracted tooth unless it’s an overcrowded or wisdom tooth. Failure to fill the gap may compromise your functionality, aesthetics, and bone health. The good news is that modern dentistry offers several options for tooth replacement.
We recommend dental implants for their durable and natural-looking properties. Additionally, partial dentures and CEREC bridges are equally effective options. Our dentist will guide you on the best solution that fits your budget, preferences, and oral health needs.
How much does a dental extraction cost in Spokane, WA?
Costs depend on the type of extraction and the complexity of the case. Removing an easy-to-reach tooth costs less than removing an impacted tooth. Our office will provide a cost breakdown during your consultation. We’ll also discuss payment options available to make your dental care affordable.
Does insurance cover dental extractions?
Most plans cover at least a part of the extraction cost. However, coverage differs among providers. Our office will review your insurance plan and advise on the applicable benefits.
Where can I have my tooth extracted in the Spokane area?
Stein Family Dentistry strives to make every dental extraction a comfortable and stress-free experience. Whether you need one or multiple teeth removed, trust our office for expert care. Call (509) 463-1770 and schedule your consultation today.
Are you interested in tooth removal?
Tooth extractions resolve several problems, including pain relief, infection prevention, and issues like overcrowding. Do you need your tooth removed? Call (509) 463-1770 to schedule an appointment with Stein Family Dentistry in Spokane, WA. Our dentist is experienced in administering ordinary and wisdom tooth extractions.
