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Did you know that one of the keys to great overall health is to maintain healthy teeth and gums? At our dental office we work hard to bring you high/quality routine and preventative dental care. At times, this requires that our dentists pull severely damaged or rotted teeth.
What is a Tooth Extraction?
A tooth removal is a simple process that can usually be performed in our office. Teeth extractions consist of the dentist separating the periodontal ligaments that attach the teeth to the jawbone. These fibers can be easily manipulated so that the tooth is easily removed from the mouth.
When is Getting a Tooth Pulled Necessary?
Many of our patients call us for dental care because of severe tooth pain. Our dentists are often able to fix the problem without surgical intervention, but there are times when our dentists will recommend that a tooth extraction be done. Some common situations that often lead to having a tooth pulled include:
Broken or Cracked Teeth
You might be surprised to learn that your teeth are destructible. A simple action like biting down on a hard piece of candy can break or crack a tooth. Minor damage is easily fixed by placing a crown on the tooth. When the damage to the tooth has reached the middle of the tooth, a root canal may be in order. In the most severe cases, the dentist may decide that the tooth has too much damage or is too rotten to save. In these cases, the dentist will recommend a dental extraction.
Severe Tooth Decay
Plaque is a filmy substance composed of bacteria that builds up on the teeth after eating and drinking. As plaque builds up, it begins to eat away at the enamel of the tooth. This can eventually cause cavities. The dentist may choose to place a filling in the cavity. Other options include placing a crown on the tooth or performing an extraction. An extraction is usually recommended in instances where the tooth has suffered a severe infection.
Advanced gum disease
Also known as periodontal disease, gum disease occurs when plaque builds up and begins to attack the gum tissue around the teeth. Gum disease can be painful and can also cause the gum tissue around the teeth to separate, making it easier for your teeth to fall out. In the advanced stages of gum disease, our dentist may recommend that one or more of your teeth be extracted.
Baby Tooth Won’t Fall Out
As we grow up, our permanent teeth begin to grow in. This causes the baby teeth to become loose and fall out. In most cases, the baby tooth will fall out by itself. However, there are times when the baby tooth won’t fall out on its own. This leaves the permanent tooth stuck beneath it. This problem is easily remedied by having the dentist extract the baby tooth so that the permanent tooth has room to grow in.
Crowded Teeth
Many children entering their adolescent years discover that there isn’t enough room in their mouths for their permanent teeth. This problem causes overcrowded teeth, which leads to teeth growing out of alignment. Crowded teeth are usually treated with braces or other orthodontic treatments. Many times, the dentist will perform a routine tooth extraction before braces are put on.
Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Most people have their wisdom teeth grow in sometime in their adolescent or early adult years. The wisdom teeth are a third set of molars that can cause dental problems when there is not enough room in the mouth for them. Oftentimes, the wisdom teeth become trapped under the already existing teeth. This condition is known as an impacted wisdom tooth. If you have an impacted wisdom tooth, the dentist will recommend that you have the tooth pulled. In complex cases, you may be referred to an oral surgeon.
What Will My Tooth Extraction Cost?
Our practice understands that you and your family have a budget to keep in mind. While the cost of a dental extraction varies according to how complex the procedure is, we have many payment options available for you. Ask our staff about special offers, dental discount plans or payment options that may be available. We also accept a variety of dental insurance plans.
What Happens During a Dental Extraction?
While having the dentist pull a tooth can be a scary experience, we do our best to keep you as comfortable as possible. You will be given a local anesthetic so that you won’t feel anything during your procedure.
What Can I Expect After My Dental Extraction?
Extraction aftercare usually requires that you limit activity for a certain amount of time. The dentist will advise you to eat soft foods and to avoid spitting or drinking out of straws. You will also be givien a prescription for painkillers.
Will The Tooth Extraction Healing Process Take a Long Time?
Healing after a dental extraction usually takes a day or two. You may experience some pain and bleeding at first. Your dentist will be able to give you a timeline as to when you can get back to normal after your extraction surgery.
Call Us to Schedule an Appointment
If you’re worried that you might need a tooth extraction in Danbury, call us right now at (203) 951-5179. We’ll get you booked into an appointment with one of our dentists, where we will take x-rays of your teeth and give you a full exam to determine that best course of action for your teeth. Contact us to get your dental health back on track.