Tooth Extraction
Preserving natural teeth is a top priority in dentistry, but for certain conditions, an extraction may be the best treatment option.
The dentists at 38th Street Dental in Austin, TX, can perform a tooth extraction to help improve the health of a compromised smile.
Learn more about why our dentists might recommend a tooth extraction...
When Is a Tooth Extraction Necessary?
When a tooth is too compromised to save, a virtually painless extraction can help eliminate painful symptoms and save neighboring teeth. Reasons to consider a tooth extraction include:
Protect Your Oral Health Our Dentists Provide Prompt, Gentle Care
If you're currently in pain, we are here to help. Our dentists can safely remove your tooth, preventing infection and protecting your oral health.
From wisdom tooth extraction to replacing severely compromised teeth with implant-supported restorations, you can count on us to coordinate the care you need to make your smile healthy, comfortable, and functional once again.
To get in touch with us, contact our friendly Austin dentistry office online or call
(512) 458-6222
We're Here to Help
"Professional, efficient, and caring!" Austin Patients Talk About Their Dental Experience With Us
William Berenji
2021
This office is like a family to me they make me smile going in and they make me smile going out melissa and doctor meek are awesome to deal with every single trip i made to that office
View on GoogleOlga Fischer
2021
Professional, efficient, and caring! I was especially impressed with the hygienic practices employed and ppe used. It is evident that a lot of thoughtfulness and expertise has been applied to ensuring patient safety.
View on GoogleThe Process Of Wisdom Tooth Extractions
Impacted wisdom teeth are one of the most common reasons patients visit our Austin, TX, dental office for a tooth extraction. Many patients do not have sufficient room in their jaw to accommodate wisdom teeth.
As a result, wisdom teeth are either unable to erupt from the gums or come in at an angle. This can cause severe inflammation and greatly increases your risk for infection.
Extracting wisdom teeth early can help avoid developing future dental issues.
What to Expect During a Tooth Extraction
Our dentists work with trusted oral surgeons who perform both simple and surgical extractions. Their office is conveniently located next door to our Austin, TX, dental practice.
We work with trusted oral surgeons next door to our office for convenient, streamlined care.
"I couldn’t be any happier with my experience!" Patients Appreciate Our Team
Victoria Matthews
2022
I am new to Austin and had severe tooth pain one night. They were able to get me in the next day! Not only did they provide the best service but Melanie even took the extra time to call my insurance and figure everything out on my behalf! They are up front about any costs so there are no surprises! The doctor went through every step to figure out which one of my teeth was actually causing me pain. He didn’t quit after X-rays and one test to tell me “you’re fine” he believed me and found the root cause (pun intended)! If you’re looking for a new dentist look no further! I couldn’t be any happier with my experience!
View on Googlekeren barboteau
2022
I’ve been a patient of Doctor Meek since 2010, and every visit has been phenomenal.
All the staff are wonderful.
Melissa is a sweetheart, and extremely knowledgeable in her field, as is Dr. Meek. Front desk Patty, Stephanie, and Melanie are amazing. And dental hygienist Tiffany.
...Thank you all!
Aftercare
To minimize the risk of infection in the days following surgery, patients should take prescribed medications, wear their gauze as advised, avoid using a straw, and follow all other post-op instructions.
While patients should anticipate some swelling and inflammation after surgery, most side effects fade within a few days.
Taking NSAIDs (ibuprofen, etc.) and applying ice packs to the cheek over the extraction site can help manage any swelling.
Dry Socket And How to Avoid It
Our bodies naturally help us heal after a tooth extraction by forming a blood clot at the extraction site. This blood clot provides protection for the wound.
Sometimes, the blood clot can become dislodged through the use of straws or eating hard foods. It can result in dry socket, a painful condition that needs attention as soon as possible. Dry socket only happens in about five percent of extraction cases, but it pays to be aware of the risk and how to avoid it:
- Don't use a straw for at least 48 hours after your procedure
- Eat only soft foods for about two weeks
- Don't smoke
- Wait about four days before brushing near the extraction site
If you notice that the blood clot at the extraction site has become dislodged, act fast and contact our Austin dentists. We can quickly treat or coordinate care for the effects of dry socket to provide relief and protect your oral health.
Will I Need A Dental Restoration?
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Not always — but it depends on what type of extraction you've received. If our dentists remove a baby tooth, an overcrowded tooth, or a wisdom tooth, then you won't need a restoration. However, if they extract a tooth that is crucial to the appearance or function of your smile, then you will need one.
Tooth Replacement Options
Advances in dentistry mean safer treatment and more lifelike restorations. Your choices are:
Replacing missing teeth with a traditional bridge or denture offers patients lower upfront costs and is the simplest solution to fill the gap in your smile.
Implants and implant-supported restorations are the best solution for replacing missing teeth, offering greater stability and preventing jawbone atrophy.
How Dental Implants Can Help After an Extraction
Implants can secure restorations like crowns and bridges. Implants can last a lifetime with proper care. Our dentists can place your implants and custom restoration after your extraction site has healed. In some cases, we may even be able to place them on the same day.
