Typically, dentists like to save teeth and keep your smile intact, but there are situations when the extraction is the best option.
Your dentist may recommend tooth extraction for various reasons, including:
- Tooth damage or deep decay
- Orthodontic pretreatment
- Tooth replacement pretreatment
- Troublesome wisdom teeth
Before Tooth Extraction
What you experience before tooth extraction depends on your oral health situation. For example, if a tooth will be pulled due to trauma or deep decay, you may have a toothache or oral pain before treatment. Likewise, problematic wisdom teeth can cause extreme discomfort.
Fortunately, we can ensure you feel no pain during the extraction process!
During Tooth Extraction
We offer gentle tooth extraction in Birmingham, AL, and even sedation for those needing extra reassurance. Of course, you may feel pressure as the dentist removes the tooth, but it’s unlikely you’ll feel pain. You simply relax in the dental chair while we see to your extraction.
Besides powerful local anesthesia, the dentist may talk to you about nitrous oxide or oral sedation.
Nitrous oxide is a relaxant delivered via gas into a nasal mask. The effects wear off immediately when we remove it. Oral sedation is a pill taken before treatment. With this option, you will need transportation.
After Tooth Extraction
After tooth extraction, we send you home with specific aftercare instructions. Your aftercare directions let you know when to rinse your mouth, whether you should elevate your head during sleep, and when you can restart solid foods.
Typically, you’ll want to avoid chewing on the extraction site for a few days. You should also not smoke or drink through a straw.
When the anesthesia wears off the evening after extraction, you may notice mild discomfort. We recommend an over-the-counter pain reliever like ibuprofen.
Contact Your Dentist in Birmingham, AL
If you have a damaged tooth, seeing your dentist for restoration or extraction is important. Without treatment, the tooth may become infected and put your oral health at serious risk. So contact a helpful dental team member today to get started.