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Extractions in Alexandria
While we always try to preserve your natural teeth, sometimes an extraction is the best way to preserve your oral health.
Removing problematic teeth
What are Extractions?
Simply put, an extraction is the removal of a tooth. Extractions are performed when a tooth has decayed beyond repair, or become otherwise damaged in such a way that there is no other option to save it. With our gentle techniques and board-certified expertise, you can rest easy knowing that your smile is in good hands.
The benefits of extractions
A tooth extraction can be a necessary procedure for a variety of reasons including relieving pain, treating or preventing infections, creating space for orthodontic treatment, or rehabilitating with dental implants.
- Alleviate pain
- Prevent severe infections
- Prevent damage to surrounding teeth and important anatomy
- Encourage good gum health
- Create space for orthodontics
- Rehabilitation with dental implants
- Improve oral hygiene
Take back your oral health
Types of extractions
Extractions may be performed for multiple reasons, but at Alexandria Oral Surgery, we’ll only remove a tooth if it will positively impact your oral health in the long run.
Emergencies
If your tooth has a severe crack, or breaks off at the gumline, there may be no way to save it. If this happens to you, we can extract the tooth to prevent an infection, make room for a replacement, and preserve your oral health.
Infections
A tooth infection is a painful condition that may require the removal of the offending tooth to avoid further discomfort, damage, or complications. By removing the source of the infection, you can begin the process of healing.
Implant preparation
In cases of severe decay or infection, a tooth may be removed to make room for a dental implant. Patients who are receiving full-arch dental implants may also need to have any remaining teeth removed before beginning their treatment.
The tooth extraction process
While the thought of a tooth extraction may sound scary, this is a common procedure and is nothing to be afraid of when performed by a board-certified oral surgeon. Here’s what to expect:
1
Consultation & X-rays
The first step is to schedule a consultation with your oral surgeon. During this appointment, they will assess your teeth and overall oral health to determine if tooth extraction is necessary. They may also take x-rays and other digital images to get a better look at the tooth or teeth in question.
2
The Surgery
If tooth extraction is recommended, your Alexandria oral surgeon will provide you with pre-operative instructions to follow, such as avoiding food or drink for a specific period of time prior to the procedure. On the day of the procedure, you will be expertly numbed. Depending on the complexity, you may also receive sedation to help you relax. Once you are comfortable and numb, your oral surgeon will use specialized tools to carefully remove the tooth.
3
Post-Procedure Recovery
After the tooth has been extracted, your doctor will provide you with post-operative care instructions. This may include information on how to manage pain and swelling, what foods to eat or avoid, what to expect, and when to come back in for a follow-up appointment. It's important to follow these instructions carefully to ensure a smooth and speedy recovery. In most cases, you can expect to resume your normal activities within a few days to a week after the extraction.