At Impressions Dentistry, we are proud to offer tooth extractions for our patients in Olympia, WA. Tooth extractions are a common dental procedure that can be used to remove a tooth that is damaged, decayed, or otherwise in need of removal. The team at Impressions Dentistry is experienced in performing tooth extractions and will work to ensure that you are comfortable throughout the entire process.
Why You Might Need a Tooth Extraction
There are a number of reasons why you might need a tooth extraction. In some cases, a tooth may be too damaged to be saved. In other cases, a tooth may be impacted, meaning it is trapped beneath the gum line and is unable to erupt properly. Impacted teeth can lead to pain and other problems if they are not removed. Additionally, baby teeth that have not fallen out on their own may need to be extracted in order for the adult teeth to come in properly.
What to Expect During a Tooth Extraction
Before your tooth extraction, your dentist will numb the area around the tooth using local anesthesia. Once you are numb, the dentist will gently rock the tooth back and forth until it is loose enough to be removed. In some cases, the dentist may need to make a small incision in order to remove the tooth. Once the tooth has been removed, the socket will be cleaned and any stitches will be placed. You will likely be given gauze to bite down on in order to stop any bleeding.
After Your Tooth Extraction
After your tooth extraction, it is important to take it easy for the remainder of the day. You should avoid strenuous activity and drinking through a straw as this can cause bleeding. It is also important to avoid alcohol as it can thin your blood and increase bleeding. You may experience some swelling after your extraction which can be minimized by applying ice packs to the area for 20 minutes at a time. It is normal to experience some pain and discomfort after your extraction which can be managed with over-the-counter or prescription pain medication.
At Impressions Dentistry, we understand that getting a tooth extracted can be daunting. However, our team of experienced professionals will work to ensure that you are comfortable and relaxed throughout the entire process. If you have any questions about whether or not you might need an extraction, or if you would like to schedule an appointment, please give us a call today!