Tooth Extractions in Maple Valley, WA: When is it Necessary?
We understand that nobody wants to have a tooth extracted. At Dr. Samuel Cho, Family Dentistry, we always try to preserve your natural teeth whenever possible. However, sometimes an extraction is the best option for your long-term oral health.
Why Might a Tooth Need to Be Extracted?
There are a few different reasons why Dr. Cho might recommend a tooth extraction. Some of the most common include:
- Severe Decay: If a tooth is badly decayed and can’t be restored with a filling or crown, an extraction may be necessary to prevent further damage and infection.
- Gum Disease: Advanced gum disease can weaken the bone and tissues that support your teeth, eventually leading to tooth loss. In these cases, extraction may be the best way to protect the surrounding teeth.
- Damaged Teeth: A tooth that is broken or fractured beyond repair may need to be extracted.
- Impacted Teeth: Wisdom teeth are often impacted, meaning they don’t have enough room to erupt properly. This can cause pain, crowding, and other issues, making extraction necessary.
- Orthodontic Treatment: Sometimes, teeth need to be extracted to create space for orthodontic treatment, like braces.
What to Expect During an Extraction
Dr. Cho and our team strive to make your extraction experience as comfortable as possible. Here’s what you can expect:
- Local Anesthetic: We’ll numb the area around the tooth with a local anesthetic, so you won’t feel any pain during the procedure.
- Gentle Extraction: Dr. Cho will carefully loosen the tooth and extract it from its socket. You might feel some pressure, but it shouldn’t be painful.
- Sectioning (if needed): In some cases, a tooth may need to be sectioned into smaller pieces for easier removal. This is a common procedure and nothing to worry about.
After Your Extraction
We want to make sure you are as comfortable as possible after your extraction, and that starts with just a few simple steps. Here are a few tips to help you heal quickly:
- Bite Down: We’ll give you a gauze pad to bite down on. This helps stop the bleeding and allows a blood clot to form, which is essential for healing.
- Take it Easy: For the first few days, avoid things that could agitate the area, like rinsing vigorously, using straws, smoking, or even drinking alcohol.
- Stay Comfortable: Apply an ice pack to your cheek to help with any swelling, and be sure to take any pain medication as prescribed.
- Oral Hygiene: Resume your normal dental routine after 24 hours, gently brushing and flossing around the extraction site.
Don’t hesitate to call our office if you have any questions or concerns after your extraction.
Call us today to schedule your appointment, get the relief you need, and feel welcome in our family dentistry where you come first.