Gentle, professional tooth extractions offered
At our practice, we are dedicated to preserving the health of your teeth with regular dental cleanings and exams. We work closely with our patients to provide them with the tools and knowledge needed for maintaining their teeth for a lifetime. However, there are situations where a dental extraction may be unavoidable. Whether it is caused by trauma, gum disease, deep decay, bone loss, or other factors, we will carefully assess the situation and advise you on whether the tooth can be saved or if extraction is the best option.
If extraction is necessary, our caring dentist and supportive team will guide you through the process and discuss potential tooth replacement options. While losing a tooth is never ideal, our main goal is to prioritize your overall health and well-being, and sometimes removing a problematic tooth is the best course of action.
We use digital x-rays to uncover hidden dental issues for an accurate diagnosis. If you need more information on tooth extractions or have a troublesome tooth, please contact our dental team to schedule an examination. Keep reading to learn more about our extraction process and available options for tooth replacement.
Simple vs surgical tooth extraction: what's the difference?
Simple Extractions
A simple tooth extraction involves removing a tooth that has already come out of your gums. These extractions are usually straightforward. Our main goal is to make sure your jaw is completely numb so you won't feel any pain. We will then carefully remove the tooth from its socket. Some bleeding is normal, but it should stop within about thirty minutes after the procedure. Dr. Gomez may recommend avoiding smoking and drinking through a straw while you heal.
Surgical Extractions
When it comes to surgical extractions, the process involves the removal of teeth that have not fully emerged or have not emerged at all. In order to access the tooth, an incision will need to be made. Our dentist's top priority is ensuring your comfort, so the procedure will only begin once your jaw is completely numb.
After the incision is made, the tooth will be gently loosened and removed. Stitches may be required for proper healing following surgical extractions. Dr. Gomez will provide detailed instructions on how to care for your specific surgical site and will help manage any pain during the healing process, although tooth extraction is typically not very painful.
By diligently following the post-surgical instructions provided, you can anticipate a speedy recovery.
Why might I need an extraction?
Decay, Trauma, or Root Canal Failure
Severe decay, trauma, or a failed root canal can often lead to the need for a tooth extraction. However, with proper dental care and regular check-ups, this can usually be avoided. In cases of blunt trauma, extraction may be necessary. If you experience a toothache, swelling, or a blister on the gum, it may be a dental emergency. Our emergency dentist in Nederland is here to help relieve your pain, so don't hesitate to contact us at the first sign of trouble.
Wisdom Teeth Extractions
Many teenagers and young adults often have their wisdom teeth removed, but it is not always necessary. Digital x-rays can help determine if extraction is needed, especially if the teeth are growing in a way that could harm other teeth or cause discomfort. Wisdom teeth, located at the back of the mouth, can be difficult to keep clean, making extraction necessary in some cases for overall health and comfort.
Before Orthodontics
If your jaw is too small to accommodate all of your teeth, they may become twisted and overlap. In these situations, your dentist may recommend extracting a tooth before beginning orthodontic treatment to address the problem.
Before Dentures
Your dentist may recommend extracting your remaining teeth and replacing them with full dentures if you have experienced significant tooth loss and your existing teeth cannot support a partial denture or dental bridge.
What tooth replacements do you offer?
At Nederland Family Dental, we offer various tooth replacement options to help restore your smile after tooth loss. Our dentist will evaluate your teeth and gums to recommend the best choice for improving your smile.
Here are the tooth replacement options available:
- Dental bridges: Replacement teeth attached to adjacent teeth.
- Dental implants: Replacement root and dental crown surgically implanted.
- Dentures and partials: Restoration teeth on an arch to fill in for tooth loss.
Do you offer sedation dentistry?
A recent study in the British Dental Journal found that individuals with dental phobias are more likely to have cavities and missing teeth, as well as a lower quality of life related to oral health. Fortunately, sedation dentistry in Lumberton, TX offers a safe and stress-free option for those with dental phobias to receive necessary dental care. Conscious sedation involves taking oral medication before the procedure, allowing patients to remain relaxed and worry-free while still being able to communicate with the dentist. Some patients may even fall asleep during treatment. The dentist will assess the patient's medical history and medications to determine if they are a suitable candidate for sedation dentistry. On the day of the procedure, the medication will be administered in the dental office under the dentist's supervision. Patients should arrange for a ride home as they may feel groggy afterward, but should feel back to normal the next day. To learn more about sedation dentistry in Lumberton, TX, individuals can contact the office of Dr. Whitney Gomez to schedule a dental consultation. The team is committed to providing a stress-free experience for patients with dental phobias.
How to prevent tooth loss?
It is advised to follow the best practices recommended by the American Dental Association to avoid further tooth loss.
- It is important to schedule dental exams and teeth cleanings with your dentist twice a year.
- Don't forget to brush your teeth and floss at least twice a day at home.
- Avoid consuming foods and drinks that are high in sugar and acidic.
If you have an oral health condition such as gingivitis or periodontal disease, your dentist will create a personalized treatment plan for you.
Call Our Lumberton Office for a Dental Exam
If you are having issues with your wisdom teeth or need to have them removed, our Lumberton dental office is ready to assist you. Please reach out to us to set up an appointment with our experienced dentist.
Here at Nederland Family Dental, we have expertise in addressing various dental problems and do not necessitate a referral. Our team is committed to delivering the same level of care that we would want for our own loved ones. We are thrilled to welcome you to our dental practice and are eager to provide you with exceptional service.
