When a tooth sustains major injury, or develops a severe cavity or infection, then treatment is crucial. If the issue is too serious for a restoration, we may need to remove it to protect the rest of your smile. In today’s blog, your Virginia Beach, VA, dentist looks at when a tooth extraction procedure is necessary.
The Reasons a Tooth Needs to Be Removed
If a tooth is severely decayed or infected, then extraction could prevent the spread of infection to other teeth or the jawbone itself. We could also remove teeth too damaged to be treated with a crown, or to address teeth loosened by gum disease. Sometimes, taking out a tooth aids in orthodontic treatment or helps improve bite balance. We could take out teeth to make room for a prosthetic, or to prevent the impaction of wisdom teeth, so you avoid major complications like misalignment. When we recommend this option, that’s because lack of action could threaten your smile as a whole.
Ensuring Your Comfort
We want to make sure you feel comfortable and relaxed during your visit, even if you have dental anxiety. In addition to a local anesthetic to the area around the tooth, our team could discuss administering dental sedation to help you enter a state of calm and relaxation, with little to no memory of the procedure at all. Even if you have special needs or anxiety, we want to help you receive the care necessary to enjoy optimal oral health, so talk to our team today about your concerns!
Removing the Tooth
Our team will plan the process in detail by taking digital x-rays of your smile, so we can pinpoint the position of the tooth in question, and about blood vessels, sinus cavities, and nerve tissues. We then use forceps to gently remove the tooth, and will suture the area closed afterward. A friend or family member can bring you home, and we will provide aftercare instructions and prescriptions for any necessary medications. The sutures can be removed in a follow up visit. For the first day or two, eat only soft foods, avoid straw use, and rest. Be very gentle when you brush and floss, and avoid prodding the site with your tongue.
If you have any questions about the tooth extraction process, or if you’re ready to schedule a consultation, then contact our team today to learn more. We want to help you and your family enjoy optimal oral health!
Speak With Your Virginia Beach, VA, Dentist About Tooth Extraction
Don’t let serious oral health concerns cause pain and the risk of major complications! Call Absolute Dental Care in Virginia Beach, VA at 757-428-7440 to schedule an appointment for your loved ones soon!