Tooth Extractions – Renton, WA
Removing Troubled Teeth to Ensure Optimal Oral Health
Learning that you need a tooth extraction isn’t something that all dental patients are prepared to hear. However, before the panic begins to set in, remember—tooth extraction is only recommended if there is truly no other way to save a compromised tooth, or if your oral wellness is at stake. Our team will always work to help you keep your natural teeth when possible, but when this isn’t an option any longer, we’ll make sure that the tooth extraction process is smooth, comfortable, and overall positive for you.
Why Choose Complete Dental Care of Renton for Tooth Extractions?
- Wisdom Tooth Extractions Available
- Same-Day Emergency Appointments
- Insurance Welcome & Flexible Financing
Reasons Why Tooth Extractions Are Necessary
Although tooth extractions are not always a go-to option, there are some situations when, for the sake of your smile’s future, it’s best to undergo the procedure:
- A tooth is so severely decayed that a filling or root canal cannot be used to assist it.
- Extreme facial trauma has caused irreversible physical damage to a tooth.
- Overcrowding requires a tooth or teeth to be removed in advance of orthodontic treatment.
- There are baby teeth that will not come out on their own but need to be removed to make room for permanent teeth.
- A tooth has become impacted, which means it is erupting at an odd angle (this is often the case with wisdom teeth).
The Process of Removing a Tooth
The process always begins with our team numbing the area of your mouth we’ll be working on, to ensure you’re comfortable. We’ll approach tooth extraction differently, depending on whether the tooth in question is above or beneath the gumline.
For teeth that are above the gumline, simple extraction can normally be used. This involves gently rocking the tooth until it naturally loosens and separates from the surrounding tissue. In situations where the tooth is partially or completely trapped under the gums or in the jawbone, surgical extraction can be performed. We’ll carefully access the tooth through a small opening in the gum tissue, and oftentimes, divide it into sections for easier, safer removal.
Tooth Extraction Aftercare
After your tooth extraction in Renton, our team will provide you with a list of specific guidelines to follow as you begin making your recovery. To ensure things heal up correctly and painlessly, it’s important to follow these instructions closely. Some other general tips to keep in mind include:
- Avoid smoking or using tobacco products, since these can interfere with the body’s healing capabilities.
- Don’t use a drinking straw, since the suction can dislodge the blood clots that form over your surgical sites.
- Aim to keep your head elevated for the next few days, especially when you go to sleep.
- Avoid chewing on the side of your mouth where the extraction took place, and try to stick to a diet consisting of liquids and soft foods.
- To keep your discomfort under control, you can use over-the-counter pain relievers and cold compresses.
If you experience complications such as excessive bleeding, swelling, or dry socket, which involves a blood clot becoming detached, don’t hesitate to let us know at once so we can help!
Tooth Extractions FAQs
Does Getting a Tooth Extracted Hurt?
Many patients hesitate to get a tooth extracted—even when it’s necessary—because they worry the procedure will be painful. Fortunately, modern dental techniques and technology have made extractions far more comfortable than ever before. The area around your tooth will be completely numbed before our team begins, so you shouldn’t feel any pain during the procedure.
After your tooth has been removed, the extraction site may feel a little sore for a few days as it heals. Over-the-counter pain relievers and cold compresses can help manage discomfort and reduce swelling.
Is There an Alternative to a Tooth Extraction?
At our Renton dental office, our top priority is preserving your natural teeth whenever possible. Before recommending an extraction, we’ll explore every treatment that could save your tooth.
The best alternative depends on the underlying cause of your dental issue. For example, if an infection is present, a root canal may save the tooth by removing the infected pulp. If gum disease is the issue, scaling and root planing can often restore gum health and stabilize the tooth.
However, if our team has determined that an extraction is necessary, it likely means other treatments are no longer viable options.
Can I Leave the Space Empty After a Tooth Extraction?
Some patients consider leaving a space after a tooth has been removed, especially if it’s not visible when they smile. However, doing so can create several long-term problems beyond aesthetics. For example, your back teeth are necessary for chewing tougher foods, and without them, you may have to adjust your diet.
Teeth near the front or sides of your mouth are vital for speaking and smiling confidently. Without them, you could develop a speech issue like a lisp or start feeling the need to hide your smile as you socialize. Gaps can also cause neighboring teeth to shift, leading to bite problems, uneven wear, and jaw discomfort.
Replacing a missing tooth is an important part of restoring full function and protecting your overall oral health.
What Risks Are Involved with Tooth Extractions?
Extractions have evolved over the decades to be extremely safe and reliable, but, like every procedure, they carry some risks. The most common issue after the procedure is infection. After the tooth is removed, the area underneath becomes vulnerable to food debris and bacteria if it isn’t properly taken care of.
Dry socket is another risk that generally occurs within the first week after the procedure. This painful condition is a result of the blood clot over the extraction site being dislodged or disrupted, leaving the bone and nerves underneath exposed.
Our team will give you a set of aftercare instructions to follow once your treatment is complete. As long as you follow them carefully, you’ll minimize your risk and enjoy a healthier smile.