A tooth extraction is a dental procedure in which a tooth is completely removed from its socket. Sometimes this procedure is also known as “pulling” a tooth. At Etesse Holistic & Cosmetic Dentistry, we have a board-certified periodontist on our team that specializes in extractions. We can take care of extractions right here in our office.
When Is a Tooth Extraction Recommended?
There are different scenarios that might indicate a need to have a tooth extracted. We might recommend pulling a tooth if you have:
- Severe tooth decay
- An impacted tooth
- Severe gum disease
- Crowded teeth
- Dental injuries
Tooth Extraction Procedure
Tooth extractions make some people anxious, however, we provide local anesthesia to numb the affected tooth and the surrounding gum tissue. We also offer sedation dentistry to help with nerves.
Our dentists use specialized dental instruments to gently loosen the tooth and lift it from its socket. Once we remove the tooth, the socket is cleaned and disinfected to protect it from infection. Stitches might be placed to help promote healing.
After Care from a Tooth Extraction
What to Expect
At the end of the procedure, our dentist will place a piece of gauze over the extraction site and have you close down firmly to help slow the bleeding down. You will take the gauze out when the bleeding has slowed enough. However, it is common to have some light bleeding for the next 24 hours.
Hygiene and Care
Continue a good oral hygiene routine and keep the extraction site clean. You can gently rinse the area with salt water two or three times a day. Avoid brushing directly over the extraction site until your dentist recommends it.
Our dentists might prescribe antibiotics or pain relievers. Make sure to take the medication as directed. Avoid hard or crunchy foods for at least the first week, and avoid drinking through straws. Doing so could dislodge the blood clots and cause dry sockets.
When to Expect Recovery
Depending on the severity of your case, most people feel back to normal in just a few days after tooth extraction. You will be able to return to your normal activities and routine within 48–72 hours, however, it will usually take the jawbone several weeks to completely heal.
Tooth Replacement Options
Having a missing tooth can cause a variety of changes in your oral health and appearance. Sometimes a missing tooth can affect your speech and ability to chew. A missing tooth can also cause your teeth to slowly shift into the empty space.
Replacing the missing tooth can help restore your beautiful smile and help you to feel confident again! Here are some tooth replacement options provided at Etesse Holistic & Cosmetic Dentistry.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are titanium rods that are placed into the jawbone to replace a missing tooth root. Once the implant heals, the dentist will place a crown, bridge, or denture on top of the implant to restore the full tooth.
Bridges
A dental bridge uses your existing teeth on either side of the missing tooth to support a bridge. A crown is placed on both the supporting teeth, which support the bridge between them. A bridge replaces just the crown of the tooth, which works best if you’re only missing one or two teeth in a row.
Dentures
Dentures provide a reliable and affordable solution for replacing pulled teeth. They are custom-made to fit your mouth and closely match your natural teeth, restoring the aesthetics and functionality of your smile. Whether you’re missing a few teeth or an entire arch, dentures allow you to chew and speak comfortably again. They also support the facial muscles to prevent sagging, helping to maintain your natural face shape and youthful appearance.
Flipper
A dental flipper, or acrylic removable partial denture, is an excellent short-term option for replacing pulled teeth. Lightweight and comfortable, it consists of a gum-colored acrylic plate with prosthetic teeth attached. It “flips” into place in your mouth, filling the gaps left by the missing teeth.
While not designed for long-term use, a dental flipper can provide an immediate aesthetic solution, helping you maintain your confidence and smile while awaiting permanent dental work such as implants or bridges.
Contact Us for Your Tooth Extraction Procedure!
At Etesse Holistic & Cosmetic Dentistry, we provide a holistic and whole-body health approach to our dental procedures including tooth extractions. If you are anxious or concerned about pain, we offer a variety of sedation options to ease your worries! Contact us today to meet with our dentists about your oral health needs!
