When a tooth becomes damaged due to decay, injury or gum disease, it may need to be removed. Other times, teeth may need to be extracted due to overcrowding or because the tooth itself is impacted, meaning it never erupts through the gum line – something that often happens with wisdom teeth. When you need a tooth extraction in Fort Lauderdale, Dr. Natalia Benda-Celenski, ensures that the process is as fast, painless, and comfortable as possible.
Although our goal is always to save our patients’ natural teeth, there are times when a tooth cannot be rescued. Extraction is often necessary to preserve the health of surrounding teeth and gums, as well as eliminate pain or discomfort associated with damaged or crowded teeth. However, a tooth extraction isn’t always limited to the removal of infected or decayed teeth. Teeth are frequently removed to create space and so remaining teeth can be straightened with braces.
Some of the most common reasons why patients undergo dental extraction include:
Tooth extractions are among the most common dental procedures in Fort Lauderdale. At Pearl White Dentistry, we use local anesthetic or sedation to ensure you are relaxed and comfortable during the procedure and do not feel any pain as the tooth/teeth are being removed. A simple extraction with the use of forceps can be performed on teeth that have already erupted. For impacted teeth or teeth that are lodged or broken below the gum line, surgical removal may be required.
After a tooth is pulled, pressure will be applied to the area to stop bleeding. A topical antibiotic may be also be applied to prevent infection and the patient may be prescribed an oral antibiotic as well. The socket (the space that was previously inhabited by the tooth) will naturally develop a blood clot shortly after the extraction that will heal on its own and be replaced by new gum tissue typically within 10 days. While it is not uncommon for some patients to experience minor bleeding in the hours shortly following the procedure, patients who experience excessive bleeding 24 hours after the tooth is removed should contact us immediately or seek assistance with their primary physician to ensure there are no underlying concerns. In some cases, stitches may be necessary to close the wound site, especially after surgical tooth extraction.
After tooth removal, patients are advised to be cautious when eating, brushing and flossing for the next few weeks – especially during the first two 2 weeks after the procedure. Avoid touching the area and chewing on the side of the mouth where the tooth was extracted to prevent damage to the gums or premature dislodging of the blood clot, which can lead to a dry socket – a painful condition that leaves the area where the tooth was extracted (including the underlying bone and nerves) exposed. We advise patients to rinse their mouths with warm salt water beginning 24 hours after the procedure, which can not only sooth the area but also promote healing.
If you are considering tooth removal, it’s important to explore all your options. At Pearl White Dentistry, we always make every attempt to save the natural tooth before proceeding with extraction. Dr. Natalia will perform an oral evaluation to determine if tooth extraction is the best option for you and if so, will make sure the process is as quick and comfortable as possible. Call our Fort Lauderdale dental office at (954) 491-8812 or contact us online to schedule an appointment.
