A tooth extraction may sound like an extreme measure, but it's better to take action right away than to wait for pain and related complications to get worse. To act fast, you need to understand some of the common warning signs that indicate the need for an extraction in the first place. Follow the guide below and get in touch with your dental care professional for a consultation and the most effective relief available.

A Guide to Tooth Extractions

What Are Some of the Common Reasons?

There are many different situations in which a tooth extraction might be the safest solution available. Chief among them is a level of tooth damage too high for a repair to be feasible. This may come about because of decay or direct trauma, but either way, you'll need to have the tooth removed for the sake of your overall oral health.

Having a tooth pulp infection or being at risk of infection are also among the common reasons for extraction, as are teeth affected by gum disease, crowding, or impaction within the gums. If you find yourself facing these or any similar symptoms, you'll want to speak with a professional to figure out whether a tooth extraction is necessary.

What Does the Procedure Entail?

Once the root of the problem has been determined, your dental care team of choice will know how to approach the procedure itself. Aside from getting the tooth out as safely and efficiently as possible, the most important aspect of extraction is making sure the patient is comfortable. In most cases, all it takes is a local anesthetic for numbing, but larger jobs that include the removal of multiple teeth may call for sedation with a general anesthetic.

Once the damaged or loose tooth has been completely extracted, the patient may receive a prescription for antibiotics or painkillers. The length of recovery time will vary depending on how involved the procedure was, but the goal remains the same: Minimize discomfort and reduce the risk of infection.

In most cases, it's a good idea to fill the spot where the tooth was with the help of a dental bridge or implant, so the surrounding teeth don't shift into the empty space. With a trustworthy and experienced team on your side, you should have no problem coasting through the procedure and the healing that follows.

From tooth extractions to all the essentials of general and cosmetic dentistry, you want the best of the best on your side. That's why residents throughout Anchorage, AK turn to the team at J. Bryson McBratney, D.D.S., which is built upon the foundation of Dr. McBratney’s 33 years of industry experience. They offer a supportive environment and convenient services, including in-office crown molding, and they use the most cutting-edge technology for all procedures. Head to their website for patient resources and call them at (907) 562-3323 to schedule an appointment today.