Tooth Extractions – McComb, OH

At McComb Family Dental, it is our goal to help you keep your natural teeth as long as possible. However, when alternative treatment options prove unsuccessful, it may be necessary that we recommend tooth extractions in McComb. Although the process may sound painful or unpleasant, the reality is that our patients can expect to remain safe and comfortable throughout the entire process. Using advanced technology and clinical expertise, our team can carefully remove a decayed or damaged tooth with ease, giving you the chance to move forward with a healthier smile. Contact our team today to learn more about tooth extractions.

Reasons Why Tooth Extractions Are Necessary

There are many reasons why tooth extraction may be recommended, such as:

• Your child’s baby tooth will not fall out on its own, causing potential problems for the permanent tooth that must erupt in its place
• A wisdom tooth is impacted and pressing against nearby healthy teeth
• One or more teeth are severely decayed or damaged and cannot be repaired or restored using alternative treatment methods (i.e., dental filling, crown, root canal therapy)
• Ensuring that orthodontic treatment is possible and produces lasting results
• The removal of a tooth will ensure success when receiving a customized denture or similar restoration

Removing a tooth may not be the first option, but if it is recommended, you can trust that it is because our team is committed to minimizing your risk for infection and other oral health problems that might occur in the future.

The Process of Removing a Tooth

The removal of a tooth requires the use of specialized instruments, such as dental forceps and a device known as an elevator. If the tooth is partially or fully erupted, your dentist in McComb will elevate it out of its socket, making it much easier to remove. Using the dental forceps, we will grasp the tooth and carefully move it back and forth until it detaches from any connective tissue.

Should the tooth be impacted, the process requires a more invasive procedure. To remove the problematic tooth, our team will make a small incision in the gums to expose the tooth. Using designated instruments, we will separate the tooth into sections, removing each one to allow for easier extraction.  

Once your tooth is removed, it will be necessary to discuss how you plan to replace it. Apart from your wisdom teeth, you should never forgo replacing a lost or extracted tooth. The reason is that your bone will begin to deteriorate over time, causing healthy teeth to become loose and facial changes to occur. Whether you choose a dental bridge, partial denture, or dental implant, our team will work to identify the right solution for your needs and budget.

Tooth Extraction Aftercare

Once your tooth extraction is complete, you will need to follow detailed instructions provided by our team to ensure you have a smooth and successful recovery. You will need to do the following:

• Get plenty of rest the day of and the days following your procedure.
• Take prescribed medication or over-the-counter medicine as instructed to help with any discomfort you might experience. It’s best to take it before your anesthesia fully wears off.
• Avoid tobacco products and/or smoking of any kind.
• Avoid using a straw, as this can dislodge the blood clot that must form over the surgical site.
• Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to cleanse your mouth and keep bacteria out. You’ll need to do this 24 hours after your surgery.
• Use a pillow to prop up your head.
• Continue to maintain good oral hygiene but be mindful of brushing and flossing near the extraction site.

When it’s time to replace your missing tooth or teeth, our team will explain the process and what you can expect once your new prosthetic is in place. By choosing to replace your tooth, you can expect to enjoy greater functionality when eating, speaking, and smiling as well as a more youthful appearance. Avoiding treatment will only harm your oral health, self-confidence, and appearance, so when our team tells you it is time to move forward with tooth replacement treatment, don’t delay.