Things to Know About Getting a Dental Extraction

Dental extractions in Aiken is the process of removing a tooth from its socket. At Advanced Oral & Facial Specialists in Aiken SC, we know surgical tooth extraction isn’t most people’s favorite topic. The good news is that we perform lots of extractions that are quick, smooth, and ultimately the right call for long-term oral health.

Extraction might be the only option

Whenever possible, dentists prioritize keeping your natural teeth in place. Sometimes, though, removing a tooth is the best option for your oral health. Some reasons to remove a tooth include advanced stages of periodontal disease or severe decay, malformations, impaction, or damage that renders a tooth unsalvageable. Tooth extractions might be needed to make space for orthodontics or to fit dentures or tooth implants.

Extractions Can Be Simple or Complicated

Your specific oral health issue will determine whether the extraction is quick and simple or slightly more involved. If a tooth is fully erupted and has a straightforward issue, extraction is a fairly non-invasive procedure in which Dr. Robles-Velez simply loosens the tooth and removes it with forceps.

In contrast, broken tooth extraction, especially if the tooth is broken near the gum line, might involve removing some of the bone near the tooth and/or using stitches after the procedure.

Both options are routine, and Dr. Robles-Velez will use every means available to keep you comfortable. Before your extraction appointment, we will walk you through what to expect.

Common Protocols Before Extraction

We will ask you about your medical history. Dental extractions in Aiken are very safe procedures. We just want to make sure you don’t have health conditions that might make you more susceptible to infection, such as congenital heart defects, liver disease, or an impaired immune system.

Dr. Robles-Velez and her staff will take an X-ray. This helps inform their approach when it comes time to remove the tooth.

Enlist a friend or family member to drive you home afterward.

Follow After-Care Instructions

By adhering to guidelines for after-care, you can speed up your body’s healing time and reduce your risk of developing unpleasant issues such as dry socket. Recovery from surgical tooth extraction can take anywhere from a week (after a simple extraction) to several weeks (after a more complicated procedure).

You Can Replace the Extracted Tooth

Dr. Robles-Velez might offer you one of several replacement options. Common options include oral prosthetics (such as dentures or a bridge) or a permanent dental implant. The experts at Advanced Oral & Facial Specialists will determine the best option for you.

Contact us today

Whether you need a simple dental extraction or a more complex broken tooth extraction in Aiken, Dr. Jennibeth Robles-Velez and her staff at Advanced Oral & Facial Specialists are here to help. Contact us today for your evaluation.