Welcome to the world of advanced dentistry at Sheridan Dental in Grove City, Ohio, where dental extractions are performed with precision and personalized care. If you have been told that you have severe tooth decay or a damaged tooth, you might require a tooth extraction.
Learn more about our tooth extraction services below, and give us a call to schedule an appointment.
What Are Tooth Extractions
Dental extractions, simply put, are procedures where the dentist removes an affected tooth from the socket in the alveolar bone of the jaw. These extractions can be classified as simple or surgical extractions.
In a simple dental extraction, the tooth is seen above the gum line and is removed with forceps. However, surgical extractions require an incision into the gum tissue. This is usually the case with impacted wisdom teeth or teeth that have broken off at the gum line.
Whether you’re dealing with third molars, also known as wisdom teeth, or gum disease that has affected the ligament and other supporting structures, our team at Sheridan Dental is here to ensure your oral health.
How Do You Prepare for a Tooth Extraction?
We consider your medical conditions and overall health before an extraction. A comprehensive dental exam, including X-rays of the affected tooth and surrounding area, will be conducted. Our general dentist will review this along with your medical history.
What to Expect During a Dental Extraction
On the day of extraction, whether it’s a simple extraction or wisdom tooth extraction, a local anesthetic is administered to numb the area. For surgical extractions, our oral surgeon may use general anesthesia. If you have questions about sedation and local anesthesia options, we will address them during your visit.
During a simple extraction, forceps are used to gently rock the tooth back and forth until the periodontal ligament is sufficiently broken and the tooth can be extracted. A surgical extraction involves making an incision in the gum tissue to expose the tooth and jawbone, allowing for extraction.
Avoid Gum and Socket Complications Following a Dental Extraction
Once the tooth is removed, a blood clot will usually form in the socket. This clot is vital for healing. You might be asked to bite down on a piece of gauze to help form the clot.
A dry socket is a potential complication where the blood clot is lost too early, exposing the bone and nerves beneath. To avoid dry socket and reduce the risk of infection, we recommend you follow a gentle diet of soft foods like yogurt and avoid strenuous activity.
Pain can be managed with over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or a prescribed alternative. Antibiotics might also be prescribed to fend off potential infections.
For surgical extractions, stitches might be placed at the extraction site, and they usually dissolve after a few days. If you notice swelling, bleeding, or pus coming from the site of the extraction, give us a call as soon as possible. There might be a complication that we need to address.
Schedule a Tooth Extraction Appointment With Our Grove City Dentist
At Sheridan Dental in Grove City, Ohio, your oral health is our priority. Whether you need a simple extraction, a wisdom tooth extraction, or are considering implants, our team is ready to help you navigate your treatment options.
Remember, maintaining healthy teeth goes beyond extractions. Regular flossing, getting fillings when necessary, and considering braces or root canals when advised by your dentist, all contribute to your oral health. We look forward to being your partner in achieving a healthy smile. Schedule an appointment for us to examine your damaged tooth and determine the best course of action.