Dental Extractions

Each year, millions of Americans undergo dental extractions to treat problems like crowding, severe decay, and impacted teeth. At Chesterfield Dentistry, cosmetic dentist Melba Akinwande, DDS, and the team provide simple and surgical dental extractions to people of all ages. If you have a toothache or experience other oral health problems, seek treatment immediately. To make an appointment, call the office in Chesterfield, Missouri, or book one online today.

What are dental extractions?

A dental extraction is a type of oral surgery that removes a tooth. It’s a standard procedure that stops pain, prevents infection from spreading, and preserves your oral health.

At Chesterfield Dentistry, the team tries to save natural teeth whenever possible. If preventive measures like teeth cleanings and periodontal treatment don’t provide relief, extractions might be necessary.

Why would someone need dental extractions?

At Chesterfield Dentistry, the team uses dental extractions to treat various problems, including:

• Severe tooth decay
• Impacted teeth (teeth unable to break through the gum line)
• Fractured teeth
• Crowding
• Severe gum disease

You might also be a candidate for dental extractions if you’re preparing to undergo a complex medical procedure like chemotherapy or an organ transplant. Undergoing dental extractions beforehand can reduce the risk of complications, like an infection.

What are the types of dental extractions?

The team at Chesterfield Dentistry offers several types of dental extractions, including:

Simple dental extractions

If you develop a cavity and the tooth is easy to access, your Chesterfield Dentistry provider performs a simple extraction. They numb your mouth with a local anesthetic, loosen your tooth with special tools, and gently remove it. Then, they pack gauze into the socket and provide care instructions.

Surgical dental extractions

If you have an impacted wisdom tooth that’s unable to break through your gums, the team at Chesterfield Dentistry might recommend a surgical extraction.

Your provider numbs your mouth with a local anesthetic and makes a small incision above your impacted tooth. They split the tooth into several pieces and use special tools to carefully remove each piece.

After extracting the tooth, your provider closes the incision and packs the socket with gauze.

Do dental extractions present any risks?

Dental extractions are safe and usually well-tolerated, but like any oral surgery, there are risks, including:

• Post-surgical infection
• Dry socket
• Nerve injury
• Slow healing

To ensure recovery goes smoothly, follow your Chesterfield Dentistry provider’s instructions. Get plenty of rest, drink lots of water, and take your medication as prescribed. 

Avoid biting down on the empty socket for at least a week and eat only soft foods, like yogurt or scrambled eggs, until the swelling subsides. Your mouth should feel back to normal within five days but if your symptoms persist or worsen, contact your provider.

To explore the benefits of dental extractions, make an appointment at Chesterfield Dentistry by calling the office or booking online today.