A dental extraction (also referred to as “pulling a tooth”) is the removal of a tooth from the mouth. Whenever possible, the extraction of a tooth is avoided because a missing tooth will eventually result in the improper alignment of the teeth and create problems with the functions of the mouth and jaw, including problems with chewing and speaking. Although a tooth extraction is a procedure of last resort, sometimes it can not be avoided.
Dr. Trinh Pham is a skillful dentist in the Denton, Texas area. Patients who need to have a teeth extraction procedure, including wisdom teeth, trust their dental care to Dr. Pham. Book your appointment with her by calling 940-565-5049.
When is a Tooth Extraction Recommended?
•Severe Tooth Decay or Infection: The most common reason for tooth extractions is severe damage to a tooth caused by tooth decay or infection. Often decay or infection destroys so much of the tooth that the tooth cannot be saved.
•Tooth Damage Due to Breakage or Fracture: When a tooth is broken or fractured as the result of an accident, there is sometimes too little tooth remaining to save and a tooth extraction is the only treatment option.
•Severe Gum Disease: Although much less common a cause of tooth extraction that decay or breakage, some patients suffer severe gum disease that so weakens the bone and tissues that support a tooth that a tooth extraction is the only treatment option.
•Orthodontic Treatment: Some patients who are wearing braces need to have a tooth extraction so that their remaining teeth will move into the proper alignment.
What are the Different Types of Tooth Extractions?
Tooth extractions are classified as “simple extractions” or “surgical extractions.”
•Simple Extraction: A simple extraction refers to the removal of a tooth that is visible in the mouth and easily accessible with dental instruments.
•Surgical Extraction: Surgical teeth extraction refers to the removal of a tooth that is not easily accessible because it has broken off under the gum line or it has not fully erupted. A surgical extractions generally requires an incision in the soft tissues covering the tooth and may also require removal of some of the bone around the tooth. Often, the tooth must be split into two or more pieces in order to be removed.
How Long Does it Take to Heal After a Tooth Extraction?
In most cases, healing after a tooth extraction is rapid because the inside of the mouth is designed to heal quickly. After five to seven days the mouth has usually healed enough to allow eating a normal diet without pain or sensitivity. In three to four weeks, the gums should be fully healed. If the tooth extraction required the removal of bone, the full healing of the bone may take up to six months.
Post-Operative Care for Tooth Extractions
For post-operative care on teeth extraction, please click on our Extraction Post-Op Instructions Link
As a tooth extraction dentist, Dr. Pham will advise you on a plan to keep you on the path to correct dental care. If you have a question about tooth extraction call us now at 1-940-565-5049.
We serve the areas of Denton, Lewisville, Carrollton, Southlake, Flower Mound, Valley View, Aubrey, Corinth, Decatur, Justin, Kruegerville, Krum, Pilot Point, Ponder, Sanger, Rhome, Lake Dallas, Shady Shores, Springtown, Crossroads, Double Oak, Bartonville, Copper Canyon, Highland Village and Hickory Creek.