Extractions
Extractions
Tooth Extractions in Plainwell, MI
Dr. McGuire and his team at Great Lakes Dentures and Implants never spare any effort to repair a damaged tooth. However, extracting a tooth is sometimes the only viable option. If that's the case, we'd like to reassure you that our gentle approach, sedation dentistry options, and state-of-the-art techniques will leave you with a positive, stress-free experience. Your comfort and well-being are always our top priorities!
Why Would You Require a Tooth Extraction?
The following are the top five reasons Dr. McGuire may recommend a tooth extraction:
- Deep Decay: Dental decay eats away at the tooth enamel, leaving the tooth weak and brittle. Without treatment, the condition can progress, resulting in an infection, intense pain, and swelling. If the tooth is damaged beyond repair, we may need to remove it and replace it with an implant, dental bridge, or partial denture to avoid further oral health complications.
- Periodontal or Gum Disease: If not treated, periodontal disease can destroy the bone and tissues that keep the teeth in place. A loose tooth that's lost its support and cannot be saved may leave us with no choice but to extract it and replace it with an implant, bridge, or partial denture.
- Trauma: Extraction may be our only viable option if a tooth is damaged beyond repair due to trauma. Otherwise, the damaged tooth may become severely infected, wreaking havoc on your oral health.
- Overcrowding: You may need selective extractions as a component of an orthodontic treatment plan if you have crooked teeth due to overcrowding. That helps create room for the remaining teeth to move and realign, delivering a beautifully straight smile.
- An Impacted Tooth: A tooth that's impacted or trapped in the jaws, as is often the case with wisdom teeth, can cause oral health complications. The tooth may become susceptible to a host of problems, including decay, infection, and pain. We typically recommend the removal of impacted teeth to safeguard the health of the surrounding teeth and lower the risk of dental problems down the road.
What Should You Expect?
Our team will do everything possible to keep your natural teeth intact. However, if we cannot avoid an extraction, our gentle techniques, local anesthetics, and sedation dentistry options will ensure you are comfortable throughout the procedure.
There are two types of extraction procedures. Simple extractions are typically performed on teeth that are visible and easily accessible. Surgical extractions, on the other hand, are more involved and are needed to remove impacted, weak, broken, or fragile teeth or ones with long, curved roots.
After we remove a tooth, we'll provide you with care instructions and prescribe pain medication for use as needed. Patients typically experience little or no pain or discomfort during and after the procedure.
What Happens After a Tooth Extraction?
Once your tooth is pulled out, the healing process will begin. Your body will create a blood clot in the socket. Make sure to refrain from smoking, spitting, or drinking through a straw for at least 24 hours to avoid dislodging that clot. Otherwise, you risk developing a painful complication known as dry socket.
If you experience increased pain, swelling, or bleeding at the extraction site, or if you have any concerns, make sure to contact our office right away.
Tooth Extraction Near Me
If you have a painful or damaged tooth, visit Great Lakes Dentures and Implants today. Our team will work tirelessly to save your damaged tooth and restore its health and function. If, however, a tooth needs to be extracted, you can count on us for outstanding, gentle care. We invite you to call our Plainwell office for an appointment or request one online today!