When is Tooth Extraction Necessary?
Ideally, you should keep your permanent teeth for life. However, there may come a time when you need to have a tooth extracted due to circumstances beyond your control. Severe trauma may cause irreparable damage to a tooth, making it necessary to have it extracted. Or your wisdom teeth may need to be removed due to becoming impacted. At High Forest Dental, Littleton, Colorado, we offer safe and painless tooth removal services when you have the need.
Reasons for Tooth Extractions
Most dentists prefer to save permanent teeth when it’s possible. Still, there are situations that may warrant extraction. Sometimes, tooth removal is the best course of action to preserve your oral health. Here are a few instances in which Dr. Allison Brown may recommend an extraction:
- Irreparable damage – If your tooth is severely fractured or broken in an accident and can’t be repaired with a dental crown, Dr. Brown may recommend extraction. Likewise, we may have to extract a severely infected tooth that can’t be restored with root canal therapy. Removing your infected tooth will protect healthy teeth by curtailing the spread of the disease
- Bone loss due to periodontal disease – Advanced periodontal infections can destroy the bone structure of your teeth, causing them to become loose. When this occurs, you may need to have your teeth extracted and replaced with prosthetics
- Impacted wisdom teeth – Wisdom tooth extraction may be necessary when wisdom teeth become partially or fully impacted. Removing impacted wisdom teeth can help prevent oral infections, tooth damage, problems with misaligned teeth, and overcrowding
- Overcrowding – Dr. Brown may recommend removing teeth to eliminate problems with overcrowding, especially if you’re planning orthodontic treatment. Extracting extra teeth makes room for the remaining teeth to shift into proper alignment
Frequently Asked Questions about Tooth Extractions
How does the dentist confirm I need an extraction?
We don’t remove your tooth willy-nilly. Your dentist will perform a thorough exam before recommending an extraction. This usually includes digital X-rays to evaluate the tooth, surrounding bone, and nearby structures. If a tooth is severely damaged, infected, loose due to gum disease, or causing crowding, removal may be the best option. However, we always explore conservative treatments first whenever possible because nothing is quite like your natural tooth.
Is dental extraction painful?
Not at High Forest Dental. We use gentle techniques to remove your tooth. Additionally, we administer effective anesthesia to keep your mouth numb throughout your treatment. You may feel gentle pressure, but you should not feel pain. For complex extractions and wisdom teeth, we refer to some amazing Oral Surgeons that take great care of our patients and can offer IV if interested.
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Should I replace my tooth after extraction?
In most cases, yes. An extracted tooth eliminates pain and infection but leaves a gap that can lead to several oral health consequences. A missing tooth can cause nearby teeth to shift, which may affect your bite and jaw health. Over time, the bone in the area can also shrink. We recommend replacing the extracted tooth with a dental implant, bridge, or partial denture. Your dentist will help you choose the best replacement option.
Should I exercise after having my tooth removed?
It’s best to take it easy for the first 24–48 hours. Strenuous activities, such as weight lifting or running, can increase blood flow and interfere with the healing process. You can resume light activity after the first day, but heavy workouts should wait for a few days.
What is a dry socket, and how do I prevent it?
A dry socket happens when the blood clot at the site of the extraction comes loose prematurely. This can expose the bone and cause discomfort. To prevent a dry socket, it’s best to avoid:
- Smoking.
- Drinking through straws.
- Rinsing vigorously for the first few days.
Our team will provide post-op instructions to ensure an event-free recovery. However, if something feels off, such as increased pain or fever, contact us immediately.
How long does it take to recover from a dental extraction?
Recovery differs from patient to patient. Most patients start feeling better within 1-3 days. However, the bone needs 1-2 weeks to heal, although complex extractions may take longer. Following your dentist’s post-op care helps you recover faster.
How much is a dental extraction in Littleton, CO?
The cost varies depending on the complexity of the procedure. A simple extraction usually costs less than a surgical extraction. Our office will provide a cost breakdown during consultation before any treatment begins.
Does insurance cover the cost of a dental extraction?
Many dental insurance plans cover part of the cost of extractions when the procedure is medically necessary. However, the coverage amount depends on deductibles, yearly maximums, and waiting periods. The team at High Forest Dental will help review your coverage and explain the applicable benefits.
How do I prevent future extractions?
Good oral hygiene is key. Brush twice daily, floss regularly, and keep up with professional cleanings and exams. Avoid tobacco products and address dental problems early. If you grind your teeth or participate in contact sports, it’s best to invest in a custom mouthguard. Preventive care greatly reduces the risk of tooth loss.
Who offers dental extractions in Littleton, CO?
Although preserving your teeth is our priority, a dental extraction may be necessary to relieve pain and save your oral health. High Forest Dental provides gentle, patient-focused dental extractions in Littleton, Colorado. If you have an infected or painful tooth, dial (303) 951-3717 and let us help restore your oral health.
Pain-free Tooth Extractions
Fortunately, tooth extractions are fairly common procedures and can generally be completed in one dental visit. Working with an experienced tooth extraction dentist like Dr. Allison Brown increases your chances of having a stress-free, painless extraction procedure. And if your situation is complex, we have a wonderful network of oral surgeons that we work closely with to ensure that you will have a positive experience with whatever treatment is needed.
