Could A Tooth Extraction Protect A Smile?

Cleveland tooth extraction

We strive to help preserve and protect your smile by placing fillings and crowns. But what if an issue arises that is so severe it threatens to cause a missing tooth or spread infection? In these situations, your Cleveland, TX, dentist talks about the tooth extraction process.

When We Prescribe a Tooth Extraction 

Our team could recommend a tooth extraction to prevent the spread of infection due to a decayed or infected tooth that can no longer be treated with a root canal and crown. The procedure is also suggested for teeth loosened by gum disease, or if we need to make room for orthodontic treatment. A severely damaged one may need to be taken out too. The most common reason is to prevent wisdom tooth impaction. As we approach adulthood, up to four new molars could erupt in  the rear of the mouth. There is often little room for them, and their arrival causes painful impaction, infection, damaged teeth, and dental misalignment. Taking them out before they erupt could preserve the health, function, and beauty of your smile. 

Gently Removing Your Tooth 

How do we remove a tooth? Well, we begin by taking detailed images of your smile with digital x-rays, so we can plan the procedure in detail, avoiding sinus cavities or nerve tissues. We then administer a local numbing agent, and may suggest sedation to ensure you enter a calm and relaxed state. We then gently remove the tooth with a pair of forceps. We add special medication to the extraction site, and send you home with prescriptions for medications and detailed aftercare instructions. For the first day, you will need to rest and avoid solid foods. Brush and floss carefully, and take any medications as prescribed. When you return, we can remove any sutures and discuss tooth replacement if necessary.  

What About Tooth Replacement?

If the tooth removed isn’t a wisdom tooth, then the gap left behind could complicate your oral health. We suggest replacing your missing tooth with a dental prosthetic such as a dental bridge, single tooth dental implant, or possibly a partial denture. If you have any questions about how to address tooth loss or about removing a tooth, then let us know right away. We’re ready to help you smile with confidence again! 

Does Your Smile Need Oral Surgery?

We would like to help safeguard your smile by addressing issues that could threaten your smile as a whole. If you have any questions about our restorative treatment options, or if you would like to schedule a consultation today, please contact Cleveland Family Dentistry in Cleveland, TX, at (281) 592-1234. You can also find our practice at 205 E. Houston St. Cleveland, TX 77327.