Tooth Removal Bremerton, WA
Tooth Extractions provided by Dr. Hablutzel
in Bremerton, WA at Pacific Ave. Dental
When you get your adult teeth, you expect them to last for the rest of your life. So, it can be a bit of a shock when you are told that you need to have one or more removed from your mouth.
Extracting a tooth might seem scary, but it is a pretty straightforward procedure. Removing teeth is generally only recommended as a last resort as a way to protect the health of your mouth.
Pacific Ave. Dental can help you to understand why teeth are removed and what can be done after removal to help protect your oral health and restore normal functions to your mouth.
To prepare, here are some common questions you may need to be answered.
Why are Teeth Removed?
There are a few different reasons why adult teeth may need to be removed. Common reasons for removal include irreparable damage or decay and advanced stages of gum disease.
You may also need to have teeth removed due to overcrowding, which helps to make orthodontic treatment possible. Removal is also recommended in instances of impacted wisdom teeth.
Sometimes, baby teeth need to be extracted as well. Perhaps your child has suffered significant decay. They may have suffered a substantial injury to the tooth that has caused too much damage.
Children also sometimes need extractions if a baby tooth is lingering too long in the jaw and preventing the adult tooth from erupting.
In cases where the baby tooth is removed before the adult tooth below is ready to come in, a space maintainer may be used to help keep the space open.
How Do You Remove Teeth?
Teeth are removed in one of two ways. A simple extraction is the easier of the two options. It is generally recommended when the tooth has already erupted and is not in danger of breaking during the process.
Teeth may also be removed with a surgical extraction. This type of extraction is done when the situation is more complicated.
The tooth might still be below the gums, might be blocked, or could be in danger of breaking during removal.
During your initial consultation, we will assess your situation and determine the best solution to meet your needs.
What Do I Do About the Empty Space in My Mouth?
Following the removal of your tooth, the empty space may need to be filled. This is done with a tooth replacement.
There are many options available for replacing missing teeth, including bridges, dentures, and dental implants. We can help you to select the best replacement option to meet your needs.
Not all removed teeth need to be replaced, however.
For instance, because the wisdom teeth are not vital, there is no need for replacement.
Teeth that are removed due to overcrowding issues also do not need to be placed.
These teeth are removed to make room so that the rest of your teeth can be properly aligned with orthodontic treatment.
Do I Have Any Other Options Besides Removing My Tooth?
Sometimes, it is possible to avoid extraction, which would be ideal. A root canal is commonly used to save a tooth from extraction.
Endodontic surgery may also be an option. Tooth removal may be avoided with gum disease treatment. Bone grafting can restore bone mass lost as a result of gum disease, giving teeth greater stability.
These options are considered when assessing your situation. If you are told you need to have one or more teeth removed, it is because the teeth cannot be saved with any other type of treatment.
How Long Does a Tooth Extraction Take?
A tooth extraction will not take as long as you think. The tooth extraction procedure takes around 20-40 minutes on average, including numbing and aftercare.
However, the more teeth you get pulled, the longer you might have to spend at the dentist. The entire procedure will involve a local anesthetic to reduce the pain, pulling the tooth after numbing, and aftercare which involves any stitches or gauze needed.
However, if you are looking for multiple tooth extraction, you will probably be asleep for the procedure.
Does Tooth Extraction Hurt?
The doctor will provide you with a local anesthetic before the procedure begins, ensuring you don't feel anything.
You can get a small numbing injection at the extraction site in case of one tooth. However, the doctor can give you a general anesthetic in case of multiple tooth extraction.
Can I Brush My Teeth After Tooth Extraction?
You should not brush your teeth or rinse your mouth for up to 24 hours post-procedure.
However, remember to resume your oral hygiene once your extraction site heals.
Brush with a soft-bristled brush for the first couple of days, and be gentle, especially around the site of the extraction.
Brushing post-procedure should be done with caution. Don't get too close to the extraction site or rinse with a lot of water.
Can I Use Mouthwash After Tooth Extraction?
It is recommended that you don't use mouthwash after your tooth extraction.
Mouthwash can disrupt the healing process and affect the blood clot on the extraction site. In some cases, this clot can dislodge and lead to excessive bleeding.
You can replace your mouthwash with lukewarm salt water until your gums return to their original state.
Tooth Removal Post-Procedure Care
Err on the side of caution and remember to be extra careful post-procedure.
Since your mouth is healing, tampering might slow down the process and lead to pain and discomfort. If you want to avoid another trip to the dentist, rest and take it easy as you take extra care of your mouth.
Schedule an Appointment for Tooth Removal Today!
If you are in need of tooth removal, contact Pacific Ave. Dental here at (360) 373-3515 to schedule an appointment today. |