Tooth Extractions in Alexandria

What Purpose Does a Dental Extraction Serve?

A dental extraction is sometimes referred to as tooth removal surgery. This common surgical procedure is performed in your dentists office. During the surgery, the dentist will detach the tooth from the periodontal ligaments that keep the tooth in place. Having a problematic tooth pulled will bring you pain relief and a healthier mouth.

When will a dentist perform a tooth extraction?

Dental extractions are commonly performed under the following circumstances:

Broken or cracked teeth

While your teeth may feel hard, they are not indestructible. Crunching down on something hard can cause them to break or crack, as can severe mouth injuries. Mild or moderate injuries to the teeth can usually be fixed with a crown. Severe breaks or cracks may require the tooth to be pulled.

Severe tooth decay (cavities)

Plaque build up that leads to cavities is another reason that many people have to have a tooth extracted. Plaque eats away at the enamel of the teeth, forming cavities that can lead to severe tooth decay if left untreated. Most cavities can be fixed via a filling or a crown. If the tooth is badly decayed, our dentist will recommend that the tooth be pulled.

Advanced gum disease

Gum disease is also caused by plaque. In its advanced stages, periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss as the plaque breaks down the gum tissue surrounding the teeth. Extreme cases of periodontal disease usually result in the teeth being removed.

Baby teeth won't fall out

If the tooth fairy hasn't been able to arrive due to baby tooth not falling out yet, you may want to call one of our dentists. When baby teeth refuse to come out on their own, the permanent teeth become stuck underneath. Dental extractions are then done so that the adult teeth can grow the way that they are supposed to.

Crowded Teeth

If you need braces or some other form of orthodontic treatment, you may also need to have a dental extraction surgery. When your teeth are crowded, they begin to grow improperly. Misaligned teeth can cause many different problems later on. Many dentists will pull a few teeth in order to make room for your teeth to align properly with your braces.

Impacted Wisdom Teeth

Did you know that most people don't have room for their wisdom teeth to grow? This results in the wisdom teeth becoming impacted. When the wisdom teeth are stuck under the gums or teeth, it can cause a number of issues. These issues include pain, infection, jaw damage and more. In most cases, the dentist will recommend that the wisdom teeth be extracted.

How Much Will a Tooth Extraction Cost?

Pricing for a tooth extraction will depend on a variety of factors. Our staff will be happy to give you a breakdown of what you can expect on your bill. We accept dental insurance and discount plans. We also offer payment options.

What Will My Dental Extraction Aftercare Be Like?

You will be given instructions on how to properly care for yourself after the procedure. The dentist will probably recommend that you avoid eating hard foods, drinking from a straw and forcibly spitting. You may find yourself in a bit of pain and experience some bleeding. This is normal. The dentist will prescribe you pain medication to help control the pain.

How Long Will the Tooth Extraction Healing Process Take?

Teeth extraction sites typically heal within one to two days. If your procedure was complicated it may take a bit longer for you to get back to normal.

Call Us Now to Learn More About Tooth Extraction in Alexandria

If you are in pain and feel that you need to undergo tooth or teeth extractions, give us a call. At your first appointment with us, the dentist will take an x-ray of your mouth before examining your teeth. A course of treatment will then be recommended. We look forward to meeting you.