Find Relief from Toothaches with Gentle Tooth Removal
Sometimes, the best way to relieve tooth pain and get your oral health back on track is by removing a problem tooth. At Locke Family Dentistry, Dr. Virginia Locke will perform gentle tooth extractions. She can extract impacted, infected, and wisdom teeth with the utmost precision.
Our dentist in Pineville, LA, has the tools and expertise to ensure a painless tooth removal procedure. We welcome patients from Alexandria, Boyce, and Natchitoches to experience exceptional care provided by our dental team.
Types of Tooth Extraction
Simple Tooth Extraction
Simple tooth extractions are minimally-invasive removal procedures reserved for teeth that have emerged above the gumline. Dr. Locke may opt for simple extractions for overcrowded, infected, or irreparably damaged teeth. She’ll gently loosen and remove the tooth without making any incisions, a procedure that shouldn’t take longer than 40 minutes.
Surgical Tooth Extraction
Surgical tooth extractions are more complex procedures for teeth trapped below the gumline. Dr. Locke will make a small incision to access and remove the tooth. She may recommend surgical tooth removals for partially or fully impacted teeth, broken, or severely infected teeth. This procedure may take about 60 minutes.
Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Wisdom tooth extractions are similar to surgical extractions. Your wisdom teeth, also known as the third set of molars, don’t have enough room to grow. They often become impacted, growing sideways and applying pressure on surrounding teeth. Dr. Locke recommends patients get their wisdom teeth removed in their late teens to early twenties to prevent future complications.
Tooth Extraction Aftercare
After the tooth extraction, it’s important to follow Dr. Locke’s post-operative care instructions to ensure proper healing, which may include:
- Take pain medication as directed
- Eat a soft diet
- Avoid strenuous activities for a few days
- Gently rinse your mouth with salt water several times a day to keep the extraction site clean
- Contact Locke Family Dentistry if you experience prolonged or severe pain, bleeding, or other unusual symptoms
- Attend any follow-up appointments as scheduled to ensure proper healing
Frequently Asked Questions:
How long does it take to recover from a tooth extraction?
The time it takes to recover from a tooth extraction will depend on the complexity of the extraction and the individual patient. Most patients can return to normal activities within a few days to a week after a simple extraction. Surgical extractions may require several weeks to heal.
Is tooth extraction painful?
No, tooth extractions aren’t painful processes. Your dentist will administer a local anesthetic to ensure you don’t feel any pain during your appointment. It’s normal to experience mild soreness once the numbness subsides, but any discomfort will fade after a few days. Your dentist may prescribe pain relievers, which you should take as advised to alleviate painful symptoms.
How long does the tooth extraction process take?
The length of the tooth extraction process will depend on the complexity of the case and the type of tooth being extracted. A simple extraction (removal of a tooth that is visible above the gums) may take as little as 20 to 30 minutes, while a surgical extraction may take an hour or longer. Your dentist will provide a treatment timeline at your initial consultation.
How do I know if I need a tooth extraction?
There are several reasons why tooth extraction may be necessary. Some common indications for tooth extraction include:
- Severe tooth decay or infection that’s too severe for a filling, root canal, or other procedure
- Impacted teeth (wisdom teeth that are stuck in the gums or jawbone and cannot erupt)
- Orthodontic treatment (removal of certain teeth to create space for the remaining teeth to align)
- Overcrowding of teeth
If you’re experiencing pain or discomfort in a tooth, it’s wise to see a dental professional for an evaluation. They will be able to determine the cause of the problem and recommend the appropriate treatment, which may or may not include tooth extraction.