Tooth Extractions Baytown

We always do our best to help patients keep their natural teeth, but sometimes, it just isn’t a viable option. Here are some of the situations where a tooth extraction can help improve your overall oral health and function:

• There is severe damage or decay to the tooth that cannot be repaired
• To allow for a patient to undergo orthodontic treatment and maintain the results
• For ensuring long-term success with a restoration, like a full or partial denture
• When a child’s baby tooth won’t fall out on its own
• When a tooth is impacted and unable to properly erupt

Ultimately, by extracting troubled teeth, future infections and other oral health issues are significantly less likely to occur.

Teeth are generally removed by pulling or surgical extraction. Teeth can only be “pulled” when they have fully emerged from the gumline. In this case, we will numb the area around your tooth and use a clasping tool to shift the tooth around until it breaks away from the gumline. If pulling isn’t a possibility, the tooth will need to be surgically removed. For this procedure, a small incision will be made into your gums to allow us the ability to reach enough of your tooth and remove it.

To find out which extraction method will be necessary for you, come see us for a consultation where we can thoroughly evaluate your situation. In the process of discussing your extraction, we will also talk about tooth replacement options to prevent future oral health issues caused by tooth loss.

Before you head home from our office after your extraction, we will provide you with a specific aftercare plan to help you stay comfortable and avoid any complications. Every case is unique to the patient, but here are some steps that we will generally recommend for optimal recovery:

• Take any over-the-counter and prescribed medications as directed
• Rinse the mouth with salt water 24 hours after your procedure to clean the site
• Avoid using tobacco products until your mouth has fully healed
• Do not drink using a straw
• When sleeping, lay with your head propped up on pillows
• Get plenty of rest
• Apply a cold compress or ice pack to reduce swelling and discomfort
• Stay away from hard, crunchy, and sticky foods