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
amazing staff, they are super understanding and there prices are the most affordable ones!
I'll start by saying, it's been 25 years of me absolutely not going to the dentist unless I had to. My first visit here was for a root canal, Cynthia and Dr El were both so phenomenal I scheduled my next appointment the same day. I usually have to be sedated for my dental treatments but the time and patience they showed me is unparalleled in any other dentist I've ever been to personally or heard about from family & friends. I just had my follow up today after my root canal and it was the same glorious treatment I had previously, Dr El has the biggest heart of any Dr I've ever met with. The time she takes to help explain, to teach, to comfort - completely unseen nowadays. In just two visits she's taught me how to easily floss, what to look for and during each procedure she tells me what to expect during and after. It's a level of comfort I've never had and I look forward to coming back to see her and getting more taken care of, I cannot say enough about how calming and (dare I say Dr El can be really funny) hilarious it is to have an appointment here. I laugh during my appointment which has never happened before, I even almost fell asleep during my root canal! I'm just thrilled and incredibly thankful and lucky to have found her and her amazing staff. Thank you!!
Dr Josh was excellent,the best manners,awesome attitude,assistant was the best,I will be going back,I’m so glad I’ve found a Dental office so close by.
Im so happy i found this office! Dr el accomodated my needs and helped me understand everything i need to have the perfect smile 🤭 love it 😍
Awesome staff, person answering the phone was great. Very helpful! Scheduled an appointment, I will see you all soon!-Chris
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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.