What To Know About A Tooth Extraction
t Muse Dental Studio, we will do everything we can to save your natural tooth, but sometimes it is not possible. When a tooth is beyond repair, we will recommend a tooth extraction. An extraction is when the entire tooth structure, including the tooth root, needs to be removed. There can be a number of reasons we may recommend an extraction such as severe decay, gum disease or facial trauma. An extraction may also be necessary for a patient who is starting on a medical journey where optimal oral health is required, such as a stem cell replacement or transplant, organ transplant, or certain chemotherapy treatments. No matter the reason, we know that a tooth extraction can be upsetting. We will do everything we can to ensure you are comfortable and relaxed during the treatment.
Care Following an Extraction
A tooth extraction is a serious procedure and we will give you specific instructions that you need to follow to ensure your mouth heals properly and you do not cause further damage to your oral health. Although it is best to follow the cues from your body, we don’t want you to push yourself. We want patients to remain as comfortable as possible. Our recovery directions will include:
- Resting for 24 hours and limiting activity for a few days
- Avoid eating on the impacted side of the mouth
- Eat softer foods and avoid hard, crunchy or chewy foods
- Avoid using a straw or anything that requires a sucking motion, such as smoking
What is the Next Step?
We will discuss your next options with you prior to and following your extraction. Unless you are having your wisdom teeth removed, we will recommend that a tooth replacement is your next step. We have a variety of replacement options we offer to patients, such as dental implants and dentures. We will make our recommendation that will best fit your situation, lifestyle and budget.
Many patients can avoid a tooth extraction by remaining diligent with oral hygiene visits. If you have not recently been to see us for a hygiene visit and dental exam, please contact our office located in Houston, TX to schedule your next appointment. We are here to help you with anything you need!
