For When A Tooth Is Too Much Trouble
Do you have a tooth that’s causing you trouble? Whether it be a wisdom tooth or a tooth that’s too decayed, you can trust Austin extraction dentist, Dr. Michelle Hedgecock, to help give you relief from your troubled tooth. At Michelle Hedgecock, DDS, Dr. Hedgecock and our team of dental professionals are dedicated to providing comfortable and reliable tooth extraction services.
Whether you need a surgical or non-surgical extraction, we’re here to help. Read on to learn more about the process, the difference between surgical and non-surgical extractions, and the importance of wisdom teeth management.
What Are Tooth Extractions?
Tooth extractions involve the removal of a tooth from its socket in the jawbone. This procedure may be necessary for various reasons, including:
- Severe tooth decay
- Advanced gum disease
- Overcrowding
- Trauma
There are two main types of tooth extraction: surgical and non-surgical. The type of extraction you may need to undergo will depend on numerous factors.
Surgical vs. Non-Surgical Tooth Extractions
Non-Surgical Extractions
Non-surgical extractions, also called simple extractions, are performed for teeth that are visible and can be easily accessed. The tooth is gently loosened and removed using dental instruments. Non-surgical extractions are typically performed for teeth that are decayed, damaged beyond repair, or have a compromised structure.
Surgical Extractions
Surgical extractions, or complex extractions, are performed for teeth that can’t be easily accessed or are impacted. This procedure involves making an incision in the gum tissue to access the tooth and may require bone removal or tooth sectioning. Surgical extractions are commonly performed for impacted wisdom teeth or teeth with complex root structures.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last teeth to erupt in the mouth. They often emerge during the late teens or early twenties. Due to limited space in the mouth, wisdom teeth can become impacted or grow at an angle. Dentists may recommend tooth extraction of impacted teeth because they can cause symptoms such as:
- Pain
- Swelling
- Infection
- And other dental problems
Dr. Hedgecock offers wisdom teeth extraction when necessary, to prevent complications and maintain oral health.
Benefits of Tooth Extraction
At the office of Michelle Hedgecock, DDS, we understand that most patients don’t relish the thought of losing a tooth, even if it’s causing them pain or discomfort. Rest assured that Dr. Hedgecock and our dental team only recommend tooth extraction when absolutely necessary. Additionally, tooth extractions offer numerous benefits including the following:
- Immediate Relief From Toothache: One of the top benefits of tooth extraction is that it can provide almost immediate relief from a toothache.
- Maintained Oral Health: Tooth extraction can prevent the spread of infection and protect the health of surrounding teeth and tissues, thus maintaining your oral health.
- Improved Alignment of Teeth: Removing a tooth enables reconfiguring the remaining teeth for better alignment, which can improve your smile and the function of your teeth.
- Reduced Harmful Bacteria: Tooth extraction reduces harmful bacteria that can damage teeth and gums, which can promote optimal oral health.
- More Confidence in Appearance: Tooth extraction can eliminate pain, help save existing teeth, and allow patients to regain confidence in their appearance.
Who Qualifies For Tooth Extraction Services?
You may qualify for tooth extraction services if any of the following apply to you:
- You have impacted teeth
- You have oral health issues such as traumatic injuries, extensive dental decay, advanced gum disease (periodontitis), or teeth overcrowding
- You have broken, or damaged, or severely fractured teeth
- You’re preparing for orthodontic treatment
- You’re at risk for impending infection or abscess
- You have a compromised immune system or are at risk of immune system compromise
- You have teeth that are severely misaligned, rotated, or growing in an abnormal direction
- You have deciduous (baby) teeth that haven’t fallen out
- You’re opting for dentures and need to make space for them
The Tooth Extraction Process
Consultation
Before approving you for your tooth extraction procedure, your Austin dentist will have you attend an initial consultation. During the initial consultation, Dr. Hedgecock will evaluate your oral health, discuss your symptoms, and determine if a tooth extraction is necessary. She may take X-rays to assess the tooth and surrounding structures.
Preparation
Before the extraction, we’ll administer local anesthesia or dental sedation to ensure your comfort during the procedure. Dr. Hedgecock will explain the process and answer any questions you may have.
Extraction
For non-surgical tooth extraction, the tooth will be gently loosened and carefully removed from its socket. For surgical tooth extraction, Dr. Hedgecock will make an incision into the gums to fully access the tooth. Breaking the tooth into sections might be necessary to make it easier to remove.
Once the tooth has been removed, stitches may be required to keep the incision closed. Dr. Hedgecock will provide post-extraction instructions to promote proper healing.
Tooth Extraction Aftercare
- Follow the post-extraction instructions provided by Dr. Hedgecock.
- Take prescribed medications as directed to manage pain and prevent infection.
- Avoid using a straw, smoking, or vigorous rinsing for the first 24 hours after extraction.
- Maintain good oral hygiene by gently brushing and flossing, avoiding the extraction site.
- Attend follow-up appointments to monitor healing progress.
Frequently Asked Questions
Your dentist will ensure your comfort during the procedure by administering local anesthesia. They might also provide you with sedation dentistry options upon request. You may experience some pressure or discomfort, but it should not be painful.
Recovery time varies depending on the complexity of the extraction and individual healing factors. Most people can expect to recover within a few days to a week. Your extraction dentist can give you a more accurate estimate of your recovery time.
While tooth extractions are generally safe, there are potential risks and complications, such as infection, dry sockets, or damage to surrounding structures. Your dentist will discuss these risks with you and take the necessary precautions to minimize them.
It’s important to follow your dentist’s instructions regarding eating after a tooth extraction. Initially, you should stick to soft foods that require minimal chewing. As the healing progresses, you can gradually reintroduce solid foods into your diet.
Call Dr. Hedgecock For a Comfortable Extraction Experience
Experience comfortable and reliable tooth extractions with Dr. Hedgecock at our Austin dental office. Contact us at (512) 501-2385 or click the button below to schedule a consultation and learn if tooth extraction services are right for you. Our practice serves Austin and surrounding areas such as Elgin, Leander, and Sunset Valley, TX.