A Solution for Painful & Damaged Teeth
Severely damaged or infected teeth may need to be removed since it can pose a threat to the rest of your smile. Fortunately, our Boardman, OH dentist, Dr. Robert Perrott makes this process as seamless as possible by providing gentle tooth extractions. At Perrott Dentistry, we understand that getting a tooth removed is a dreaded process for most patients. That’s why Dr. Perrott makes every effort to repair and restore your tooth before considering tooth extraction.
Extracting a tooth doesn’t mean you’ll never be able to smile again. Dr. Perrott offers restorative services like dental implants to preserve your beautiful smile. We’re proud to serve patients in Austintown, Boardman, Canfield, Poland, and the surrounding Ohio area.
What Are Tooth Extractions?
A tooth extraction is a dental procedure in which a tooth is removed from its socket. This procedure is typically done when a tooth is severely damaged or decayed beyond repair. The damaged tooth can be removed either surgically or non-surgically depending on whether it’s impacted or below the gumline.
Surgical Tooth Extraction
Surgical tooth extraction is typically used for teeth that are not easily visible or accessible, such as impacted wisdom teeth. This type of extraction requires an incision in the gums to remove the tooth. Dr. Perrott will use special instruments to loosen the tooth and remove it from the socket. Surgical extractions are more complex than non-surgical extractions and typically take longer to perform.
Non-Surgical Tooth Extraction
Non-surgical tooth extraction is the most common type of tooth extraction. This procedure is done by using forceps, which are specially designed dental instruments that gently rock the tooth back and forth until it is loose enough to be removed. This type of extraction is typically used for teeth that are visible in the mouth and can be grasped easily.
Reasons for Tooth Extractions
An infected or damaged tooth should never go untreated. At your initial consultation, Dr. Perrott will determine whether or not your tooth needs to be removed. The reasons for tooth extractions include:
- Overcrowded teeth
- Severely decayed or infected teeth
- Teeth impacted by gum disease
- Damaged or fractured teeth
- Impacted wisdom tooth
The Tooth Extraction Process
The tooth extraction process begins with a consultation with Dr. Perrott. He will examine the tooth in question and take X-rays to determine if an extraction is necessary and to plan the best method for removing the tooth. Depending on the difficulty of the extraction, you may be given a local anesthetic to numb the area around the tooth or a general anesthetic to put you to sleep during the procedure.
Once you’re properly sedated, our Boardman dentist will use a tool called an elevator to loosen the tooth and widen the socket in the jaw bone. Once the tooth is loose, your dentist will then use forceps to carefully remove the tooth from its socket. After the tooth is removed, a blood clot will start to form in the socket to stop the bleeding. The dentist will place a piece of gauze over the socket and have the patient bite down to help the clot form.
Dr. Perrott will then give you instructions on how to care for the extraction site, including what to eat and drink, and how to control any pain or swelling. A follow-up appointment will be scheduled to ensure that the extraction site is healing properly.
Aftercare Instructions
After a tooth extraction, it’s important to follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions to ensure proper healing and reduce the risk of complications. Dr. Perrott recommends the following general tips:
- Avoid drinking through a straw or eating crunchy foods for the first 24 hours
- Apply an ice pack
- Take pain medication as prescribed
- Avoid extremely hot liquids
- Follow a soft food diet
It’s important to follow the instructions provided by your dentist.If you have any concerns or notice any unusual symptoms, call our Boardman office immediately at (330) 726-0090.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for a tooth extraction to heal?
The healing time for a tooth extraction can vary, but it typically takes about 7-10 days for the initial healing to occur, and several weeks for the extraction site to fully heal. Please contact your dentist if the healing process lasts longer than two weeks or if you experience any lingering discomfort.
How much pain should I expect after a tooth extraction?
Mild pain and discomfort is normal after a tooth extraction, but the amount of pain can vary depending on the difficulty of the extraction and the individual’s pain tolerance. Your dentist will provide you with pain medication to help control any discomfort.
Can I brush my teeth after a tooth extraction?
You should avoid brushing the teeth near the extraction site for the first 24 hours, but you can brush your other teeth as usual. After the first 24 hours, you can brush your teeth gently but avoid the extraction site. This will ensure that you don’t irritate the extraction site.
Tooth Extractions Done Right in Boardman, OH
If you’re experiencing pain or discomfort in a tooth and need a tooth extraction, don’t wait! Contact our Boardman office today to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced dentists. Our team will provide you with the best care and advice on how to manage your tooth extraction procedure, ensuring a smooth and successful process. Don’t let tooth pain or discomfort ruin your day, call us at (330) 726-0090 or fill out an online form today to schedule your appointment!