Tooth Extractions – Jenks, OK
Getting Rid of the Bad to Make Room for the Good
Our team at Elwood Avenue Dental doesn’t recommend tooth extractions often. However, when a tooth is no longer viable or is posing a risk to the nearby ones, it may be the only way to take proper care of your oral health. If we determine that’s the case for you, rest assured that we will take great care to ensure you remain safe and comfortable throughout the entire process. If you have any questions for us or want to learn more prior to your visit, don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with our Jenks dental team or read on!
Why Choose Elwood Avenue Dental for Tooth Extractions?
- High-Quality Tooth Replacement Options
- State-of-the-Art Dental Technology Used
- Your Dental Insurance Is Welcome
Reasons Why Tooth Extractions Are Necessary
There are several reasons why we recommend a tooth extraction, including:
- Impaction caused by wisdom teeth that have not erupted through the gumline
- Cysts, tumors, or other lesions have formed and may be putting your other teeth at risk
- Severe facial trauma
- Extensive tooth decay that has left your mouth vulnerable to further deterioration
- Overcrowding that must be addressed before undergoing orthodontic treatment
The Process of Removing a Tooth
If we determine that a tooth extraction is needed, then we will create your custom treatment plan and answer any questions you have so you feel completely confident moving forward.
When you arrive at our office for the procedure, we’ll help you settle comfortably into the treatment chair before numbing your mouth. From there, we will gently grip the tooth, rock it loose, and remove it once it has slipped out of the socket.
Of course, if the tooth is trapped underneath the gumline, then the process of extracting it will look a bit different. Typically, we make a small incision in your gums before removing the tooth section by section. Again, you won’t feel any pain or discomfort because your mouth will be completely numb.
Tooth Extraction Aftercare
To promote healing and prevent a dry socket, we will provide you with a list of aftercare instructions, including:
- Taking OTC pain medication as directed
- Eating only extremely soft foods, like plain yogurt
- Keeping your head elevated, even while you sleep
- Using a cold compress to alleviate inflammation
- Brushing and flossing carefully around the extraction site
- Not using tobacco products, smoking, or drinking through a straw
Tooth Extractions FAQs
Does Getting a Tooth Extracted Hurt?
Let’s start with one of the most asked questions about tooth extractions: Do they hurt? If this is something you’ve been wondering, or maybe something that has been stopping you from scheduling an appointment, you’ll be happy to hear that the procedure does NOT hurt because your mouth will be completely numb. Not only that, but our Jenks dental team will provide you with aftercare instructions to ensure you heal comfortably as well, including taking OTC pain medication as directed, using cold compresses for 10 minutes at a time, and eating only extremely soft foods, like plain yogurt.
Is There an Alternative to a Tooth Extraction?
Tooth extractions are usually a last resort. In other words, we only recommend them when they are absolutely necessary. With that said, you’re always welcome to bring any questions you have to us, including questions about your treatment options. That way, we can have a discussion about your dental needs, answer any questions you have, and ensure you feel confident moving forward with your treatment plan.
What Are My Options for Replacing a Missing Tooth?
We actually offer three tooth-replacement solutions: dental bridges, dentures, and dental implants. The one we recommend for you will depend on a few factors, including how many teeth you’re missing, the strength of your jawbone, and your willingness to commit to good dental care habits, like brushing and flossing consistently. As always, we will discuss the pros of each and share our recommendations before helping you decide what’s best for the look and health of your smile.
Can I Smoke After Getting a Tooth Extracted?
You cannot smoke for at least five days after your procedure since doing so can lead to several complications, including delayed healing. If you’ve tried quitting in the past but haven’t been successful, don’t hesitate to let us know! That way, we can help you prepare in advance.
How Long After a Tooth Extraction Can I Get Dentures?
Some patients assume that they can get dentures right away. However, your mouth needs some time to heal (typically between six and eight weeks). After that, we can take impressions of your teeth and begin the process of creating your custom restoration. After the lab artisans are done making it, you’ll return to our office so we can ensure it fits properly. Then, we will review what to do (and what not to do) to keep it in pristine condition throughout the years.
What Can I Eat After Getting a Tooth Extracted?
Following your procedure, your mouth will still be numb, so it’s important that you don’t eat anything right away. Once you’ve regained full sensation, you can eat, but make sure to avoid raw almonds, hard pretzels, and other crunchy foods. Instead, opt for foods that require little-to-no chewing, like cottage cheese and plain yogurt.