What Are Tooth Extractions?
At Hollywood Dental and Orthodontics, we prioritize saving your natural teeth whenever possible, but there are instances where the best way to preserve your smile is by removing a troublesome tooth. A simple extraction involves removing a tooth that is visible above the gumline, often due to severe damage or decay. A surgical extraction, on the other hand, is needed for teeth that haven't emerged, such as impacted wisdom teeth. Whichever approach is needed, our goal is to keep you comfortable and manage pain effectively throughout the process, both during and after your extraction. If you're facing tooth issues, contact our team of dentists in Benbrook, TX to learn more about how tooth extractions can restore your oral health.
How Are Tooth Extractions Performed?
Tooth extractions are done using local anesthesia to numb the affected area, ensuring a more comfortable patient experience. For a simple extraction, the tooth is carefully loosened and removed. A surgical extraction involves making a small incision in the gum to access the tooth, and if needed, the tooth may be broken into smaller sections for easier removal. After the tooth is removed, any incisions are closed, and antibiotics may be prescribed to support healing if necessary. Recovery after tooth extraction typically involves mild discomfort, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers and a soft diet for a few days.
Before you leave our office, we'll talk about what you can do at home to ensure a smoother recovery, as well as which foods are safe to eat after a tooth extraction. Generally, we recommend sticking to soft foods, like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies, to avoid irritating the extraction site. It's best to avoid hot, crunchy, or spicy foods until healing is well underway.
What Are Some of the Benefits of Tooth Extractions?
A tooth extraction is an important and sometimes necessary procedure that can provide a number of benefits for your dental health, including:
- Preventing the spread of infection to healthy teeth
- Protecting the surrounding teeth and gums
- Preparing the mouth for future restorations (like dental implants)
- Avoiding overcrowding issues, particularly with impacted teeth
- A quick, in-office procedure performed with local anesthesia to ensure comfort
The exact cost of a tooth extraction will depend on which approach is needed and how many teeth need to be removed. Tooth extraction is usually covered by insurance. During your consultation at Hollywood Dental and Orthodontics, we'll discuss what you can expect in terms of out-of-pocket costs.
Hollywood Dental and Orthodontics Reviews
Absolutely amazing!!! I tried 2 other places and it was awful so I just popped in. They saw me immediately! Their equipment is so fancy and the price was so affordable, and Dr. Sarah was fabulous through the entire experience! She treats you like you’re old friends and instantly puts you at ease. This is the only place I ever want to go! I’m telling all my friends and family!!
Wonderful staff and Dentist reasonable prices and great quality work fast she really cares about her patients
I enjoy this dental office. Everyone is very friendly, polite, and accommodating. They are timely with appointments, and take great care in your treatment.
This was an absolute pleasant location to visit, even though they were fairly new. They were very confident and educated in the work I was able to get in fast and quick. We got all my price quotes and scheduled to come back. I recommend this location to anyone that has dental needs in the DFW area. Cynthia is great and so is the dentist. I will be a returning customer. I believe I found my dentistry.
I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE MY DENTIST! Dr EL has by far been my favorite dentist I have ever came across. This is definitely my home dental office. Synthia and Edgar are amazing!! If you need dentistry, this is the place!! 11/10!!! ❤️❤️❤️
15
Total Reviews
5
Average Rating
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I eat after a tooth extraction?
In the first few days after your extraction, stick to soft foods that require little chewing, such as yogurt, applesauce, mashed potatoes, and scrambled eggs. Avoid hot, spicy, crunchy, or sticky foods that could irritate the extraction site. Gradually reintroduce firmer foods as healing progresses and our team clears you to do so.
How can I reduce swelling and discomfort after a tooth extraction?
Swelling is common after an extraction and typically peaks within the first 24-48 hours. To minimize discomfort, we may recommend that you:
- Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek in 15-minute intervals
- Keep your head elevated while resting
- Take prescribed or over-the-counter pain medication as directed
- Avoid excessive physical activity for the first few days
Will I need stitches after a tooth extraction?
Not all extractions require stitches, but if your procedure involves a surgical extraction or a larger incision, sutures may be placed to aid healing. Many stitches used in dental procedures are dissolvable and will disappear on their own within a week or two. Prior to your tooth extraction, we will discuss your treatment plan and any possibility of sutures in detail to help you best prepare for the procedure.
Take the First Step Toward A Healthier Mouth
If you have a damaged or impacted tooth, a tooth extraction at Hollywood Dental and Orthodontics may be what you need to enhance your oral health and improve your smile. Contact our Benbrook, TX dental practice to schedule a consultation, and learn more about our experience with tooth extractions. We can also address any concerns you may have regarding pain management and the recovery process to help you feel at ease during your procedure. Whether you need an emergency tooth extraction after an injury or need to make more room in your mouth, we invite you to trust us with your smile.