Hearing that you may need a tooth extraction can be daunting. You may associate extraction with severe pain and discomfort. Naturally, you might have some fears or anxiety about the process. Trust the expertise of Dr. Hugh Flax and the Flax Dental team to provide gentle and compassionate care throughout your treatment. We want to ensure a smooth recovery for a healthier and happier smile. Extractions are one of the general dentistry services we offer new and existing patients in Sanday, Springs, GA.
Tooth Extractions in Sandy Springs, GA
Tooth extraction is the process of removing a tooth from its socket in the jawbone. While our goal is always to preserve your natural teeth whenever possible, there are situations where extraction is the best course of action to protect your oral health. Some common reasons for tooth extraction in Atlanta include:
- Severe Decay: Advanced tooth decay can compromise the tooth’s structure. As a result, it may require extraction to prevent the spread of infection to neighboring teeth.
- Gum Disease: Periodontal (gum) disease can lead to loose teeth that need extraction to preserve the health of surrounding tissues.
- Impacted Wisdom Teeth: Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, often lack the space to erupt properly and may become impacted (trapped beneath the gums). Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, infection, and damage to adjacent teeth, which is why they need extraction.
- Crowded Teeth: In some cases of orthodontic treatment, you may need extraction to create space and properly align the remaining teeth.
The Tooth Extraction Process
Before the extraction, our team will thoroughly examine your mouth, including X-rays. This allows us to assess the condition of the tooth and surrounding tissues. Dr. Flax will discuss the procedure with you and answer any questions you may have. We will make sure you are comfortable throughout the process.
Step 1: Anesthesia
Local anesthesia typically numbs the area around the tooth. This ensures that you feel little to no pain during the procedure. For more complex extractions or anxious patients, we also offer sedation options for added comfort.
Step 2: Extraction
Using specialized instruments, the tooth is gently loosened from its socket and carefully removed. In cases of impacted teeth, a small incision may be made in the gums to access the tooth.
Step 3: Stitching and Gauze
After Dr. Flax extracts the tooth, he may place a few dissolvable stitches for healing. He will also place a piece of gauze over the extraction site to help control bleeding and promote clot formation.
FAQ about Tooth Extraction
Will I feel pain during the extraction?
No, you should not feel pain during the extraction due to the use of local anesthesia. Our team will ensure you are comfortable throughout the procedure.
How long does it take to recover from a tooth extraction?
Recovery times vary depending on the complexity of the extraction and your healing process. Most people recover within a few days to a week.
Will I need a replacement tooth after extraction?
When a visible tooth, such as a front tooth, is extracted, your dentist may discuss replacement options. Options such as dental implants, bridges, or dentures will restore function and aesthetics.