Although considered a treatment of “last resort”, there are situations where tooth extraction is necessary to support your long-term deal health. Wisdom teeth, a severely infected or damaged tooth, and overcrowding problems may result in the need for a tooth extraction. There is often a need for tooth extraction as part of a restorative treatment plan that is addressing complex dental health issues.
Whatever the reason, we work with patients to coordinate specialist care for the removal of problematic teeth from your smile as part of a treatment plan or to restore your overall dental health.
Tooth Extraction in Towson, MD
Dr. Ousborne and Dr. Esterson are experienced dentists in Towson, MD. While their goal is to usually prevent permanent tooth loss, they also understand that tooth extraction is necessary sometimes to maintain optimal dental health.
While removing teeth is not desirable, sometimes it is absolutely necessary. There are actually many reasons why your dentist may suggest a tooth removal. Wisdom teeth removal is the most popular type of extraction since most people have to have it done. However lack of proper oral hygiene is also a main reason. Not taking care of your teeth and gums can lead to many problems. Your Towson, MD dentist may need to pull a tooth in order to restore oral health for any of the following reasons:
- Impacted tooth
- Infected tooth or gums
- Overcrowded teeth
- Tooth blocking a permanent tooth
- Extra tooth
- Wisdom teeth requiring extraction
Our dental care team is happy to answer any questions you might have about tooth extraction. Here are some answers to frequently asked questions:
Tooth Extraction FAQs
Why do I need to get my wisdom teeth removed?
Your wisdom teeth typically begin to emerge during the late teens and early twenties. This means that the rest of your mouth has already developed. There is often no space for the wisdom teeth to fully erupt, causing impaction and unwanted teeth shifting. If the wisdom teeth are able to grow in, they will be in the far back of your mouth. This makes it extremely difficult to keep them clean during your daily oral hygiene routine. This is why we recommend removing them to prevent pain, discomfort, and tooth decay.
Will the tooth extraction hurt?
Typically a local anesthetic is used to ensure you do not feel any pain during the tooth extraction procedure. Other sedation dentistry options are available as well. While some patients may experience slight pressure while the tooth is being extracted, it should not be painful and it will not last long. The oral surgeons that we work with are attentive to your needs and will ensure you have a safe and comfortable experience.
How can I avoid a tooth extraction?
The best way to avoid having a tooth pulled is to take good care of your teeth and gums. This involves brushing and flossing daily as well as visiting our Towson, MD dentist office about every six months for a teeth cleaning. This will lower your chances of developing tooth decay and gum disease, two main reasons for extractions. However, there are times when an extraction is simply necessary. Wisdom teeth and removing teeth for orthodontic reasons are some examples.
What is a dry socket?
A dry socket is something that can happen after you have a tooth pulled. You can get a dry socket when a blood clot dislodges and falls out or never forms. This exposes the bone and nerves, causing pain and slowing down healing. It can be pretty painful and you will need to seek treatment if you experience a high level of pain a few days after you have a tooth extracted.
How can I avoid a dry socket?
There are a few things you can do to lower the chances of getting a dry socket. To avoid a dry socket, we suggest following your dentist’s tips for caring for the area:
- Don’t use straws for at least 48 hours
- Avoid smoking and tobacco products
- Eat soft foods like mashed potatoes and yogurt
- Don’t spit or rinse your mouth vigorously
- Keep the extraction site clean with gentle rinsing with salt water
How do I know if I have an infection after a tooth extraction?
After having a tooth pulled, it’s important to watch for signs of infection. Signs of infection after a tooth extraction include:
- Severe pain that doesn’t get better
- Swelling that worsens after a few days
- Fever or chills
- Bad taste or smell in your mouth
- Pus or discharge from the socket
- Redness and warmth around the area
Will there be bleeding after a tooth extraction, and how long will it last?
It’s normal to have some bleeding after getting a tooth pulled. Biting down on a piece of clean gauze for 30 minutes will prevent the bleeding. However, you may continue to bleed for a few hours up to a day. It should slowly get better. If it doesn’t, or if the bleeding is heavy, give us a call and we can help you find a solution.
Will my other teeth shift after a tooth extraction if I don’t replace the missing tooth?
Yes, your other teeth can shift after a tooth extraction. Your dentist will recommend replacing the tooth as soon as possible to prevent this. If you fail to replace the tooth, nearby teeth can move into the empty space. This is especially true for teeth next to the gap. They can lean or tip into the space, and this can make it harder to bite and chew. Schedule a consultation today with your dentist to learn more about your teeth replacement options.
How long does it take to recover from a tooth extraction?
You should recover from a tooth extraction in about one to two weeks. The first few days are the hardest, with pain and swelling. You should rest and follow your dentist’s care instructions. This will help the hole where the tooth was removed from to close up.
Most people can return to normal activities within a few days, but it’s best to avoid hard foods and heavy exercise until you feel better. After a few weeks, any swelling or soreness should go away.