If you have sustained dental trauma, significant decay, or are suffering from a painful infection, a tooth extraction may be the best method to eliminate pain and save neighboring teeth. Although extraction is rarely our first recommended course of action, in some cases it may be the best way to address the problem.
Dr. Mike Meek and Dr. David J. Tasch of 38th Street Dental coordinate extractions for you with trusted oral surgeons who are located directly next to our Austin, TX, office. To minimize your level of discomfort, your surgeon can also discuss your sedation options with you.
When are Tooth Extractions Necessary?
Although extractions are rarely our first recommendation, there are several conditions which may necessitate the procedure, including:
- Severe decay that has destroyed most of the tooth
- Unsuccessful root canal therapy
- A large crack that extends to the root of the tooth
- Significant structural damage
- Advanced gum disease
- Severe tooth crowding
Our team will perform detailed scans and x-rays to determine if extraction is truly the best solution for your smile.
Wisdom Tooth Extractions
Impacted wisdom teeth are one of the most common reasons for extractions. Most patients do not have sufficient room in their jaw to accommodate the third and final set of molars. 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.
The Extraction Process
Drs. Meek and Tasch are dedicated to ensuring you receive quality care. We coordinate extractions directly with trusted oral surgeons who operate in the office next door. They can perform both simple and surgical extractions. Typically, they administer local anesthesia so the process will involve minimal discomfort. If you need a more complex extraction, or if you are feeling anxious, deeper sedative options are also available.
For a simple extraction, your surgeon will gently shift the tooth back and forth to loosen it. They can then lift the tooth from its socket with little impact to nearby tissue. For surgical extraction of an impacted tooth, the doctor will first need to shift any tissue obscuring it. In some cases, the doctor may need to separate the tooth into several pieces to remove it. Once the tooth is removed, your doctor will place sutures to secure the gums in place and encourage faster healing.
Dental extractions can protect your oral health and prevent the need for extensive treatment in the future.
While patients should anticipate some inflammation in the days after surgery, most side effects fade within a few days. However, patients should avoid using a straw or sucking for at least a week to avoid dislodging clots.
Replacing Extracted Teeth
Before removing your tooth, we will determine the most appropriate way to replace it. Traditional bridges and dentures are a simple solution that blend in naturally with your smile. However, for the most reliable dental function and benefits for your jawbone health, we typically recommend dental implants.
Protect Your Oral Health
Dental extractions can protect your oral health and prevent the need for extensive treatment in the future. Although an extraction may seem intimidating, skilled surgeons can make treatment quick and stress-free. Contact us online or call our office at (512) 458-6222 to schedule your evaluation.
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