Tooth Extractions – Spring House, PA

Reasons Why Tooth Extractions are Necessary

Our team never suggests tooth extractions lightly, as these removals are only done as a last resort. If a tooth can be saved, we’d prefer to give you a root canal or dental crown. You’d then get to keep a part of your mouth ideal for biting, chewing, and smiling.

Due to these facts, tooth extraction is only required in harsh situations. We’ll only recommend you get one in the following cases:

• Your tooth has a cavity too large to be restored with a filling or crown
• Trauma has damaged your enamel beyond repair
• Gum disease has weakened the bone supporting your tooth
• Your mouth needs more room for a new denture
• A stubborn baby tooth won’t fall out and blocks an adult one

The Process of Removing a Tooth

When you arrive for your consultation, our dentists will assess whether and/or how to extract your tooth. They’ll then use their findings to confirm if you need a simple or complex removal.

If the affected tooth is visible, we’ll likely perform a simple extraction. This kind starts by numbing you with an anesthetic, so treatment won’t cause any pain. We’ll then use dental forceps to rock your tooth back and forth until it separates from your gums.

You'll need a complex extraction if your tooth hasn’t fully erupted. For that option, we’ll make an incision in your gums after numbing the treatment site. Our team will then divide and remove your tooth in sections to reduce bone loss. Lastly, we’ll sew the incision closed to conclude your care.

Once your extraction (simple or complex) is over, our dentists will start planning how to replace the tooth. Doing so ensures you won’t suffer long-term oral harm.

Tooth Extraction Aftercare

Though it should go smoothly, you’ll need time to recover from your tooth extraction. The treatment site will feel sore and achy as it heals from the removal. To recover a bit more quickly, please use these post-op instructions:

• Clean the treatment site with a saltwater rinse 24 hours after the extraction.
• Don’t drink from a straw, as its suction can dislodge your blood clot.
• To avoid recovery delays, don’t smoke or spit for a few days.
• Manage any post-extraction soreness with store-bought pain relievers.
• Don’t chew near the extraction site while it’s still healing.

By using the above tips, you should heal well from your extraction. You can then consider tooth replacement, which would restore your smile, your bite, and more!