Tooth extraction is a dental treatment of last resort but may be necessary for the long-term health and stability of your smile. Dr. Thompson is an experienced restorative, cosmetic, and general dentist in Greely, CO, with years of experience providing complete dentistry. There are several main reasons for the recommendation of tooth extraction:
- Severe damage or decay: if a tooth is too damaged or decayed to perform a successful root canal, an extraction may be needed to restore your oral health and wellness.
- Crowding of teeth: if malocclusion has created tooth crowding, an extraction of one or more teeth may be considered the best option for realigning your bite and straightening your smile. This may be part of an orthodontic treatment plan.
- Impacted wisdom teeth: wisdom teeth begin to erupt in the teen years and may be impacted in the bone or affect the alignment of your teeth. In most cases, we recommend extraction for your long-term dental health.
Tooth extraction in Greeley, CO
The first step in the process is to clean and prepare the area. We make you comfortable and relaxed with the chosen form of sedation or a local anesthetic. Dr. Thompson will release the tendons holding the tooth into the socket with a special tool and gently rock the tooth back and forth until it can slide out of the socket. We close the open socket using special degradable stitches.
We will pack the open area with sterile gauze and provide after-care instructions so you can recover at home with minimal side effects. Keeping the area clean and using cold compresses outside the cheek can reduce bleeding and swelling in the initial hours after treatment.
If you experience a recurrence of bleeding or sudden or severe pain, please contact us immediately so that we can assess the situation and provide appropriate guidance and care.
Wisdom Teeth Removal
Wisdom teeth removal is often considered a “rite of passage” for young adults. Dentists recommend it in a patient’s late teens or early twenties. It can also be the source of great anxiety for many who fear the treatment for something that may not be causing any symptoms!
Weld County area dentist Dr. Thompson performs tooth extractions in his Greeley, CO dental office. Dr. Thompson will refer patients to a local oral surgeon when deemed necessary for wisdom teeth removal.
We will perform a thorough exam and use x-ray imaging to determine if removing your wisdom teeth is a priority. There are cases where the teeth have enough room to develop and are not threatening to become impacted and possibly damage adjacent teeth.
Maintaining a preventive care routine and visiting Thompson Advanced Dentistry at least twice a year for regular check-ups is important. We will monitor the health and development of your teeth and recommend any treatments necessary for supporting long-term oral health.
Tooth Extraction FAQs
Does tooth extraction hurt?
Although many patients experience anxiety when faced with an extraction, the procedure is typically simple and relatively painless with a local anesthetic or dental sedation. Once complete, most patients experience some swelling and discomfort. Manage this with over-the-counter pain medication and a soft diet for a couple of days.
Is a tooth extraction or root canal better?
Your dentist will always advise you that it is important to save as much of your natural teeth as possible. We recommend a tooth extraction in severe cases of severe tooth damage. Although, most teeth with cavities and root infections can be saved with a root canal procedure and restorative dentistry.
Can tooth pain go away on its own?
Not likely. Constant tooth pain comes from an issue only your dentist can fix. Many issues can cause toothaches and pain, so your best option is to consult with a dentist. Schedule a dental exam, or just call with your question. Sometimes, a simple phone call can answer your issue.
Call 970.205.9614 to schedule a dental health exam today. Dr. Joseph Thompson is your local Greeley, CO-area dentist for all your general dental care needs.