When problematic teeth are causing you pain and discomfort, remember that you have options. The goal is always to preserve your natural teeth, but sometimes extractions are the best way to go to save your smile.
Tooth extractions, including wisdom teeth removal, are often necessary for maintaining optimal oral health. In Bonney Lake, Dr. Gurpreet Shahi and Dr. Gentai Ni at Dental Health Group recommend extractions when a tooth is severely damaged, decayed, or causing problems for surrounding teeth. This procedure can alleviate pain, prevent infection, and create space for proper tooth alignment. Wisdom tooth removal is particularly common, as these teeth often emerge misaligned or become impacted, potentially leading to complications. Call our Bonney Lake dentist today for more information!
Wisdom teeth, also called third molars, typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 25.
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Tooth extractions, especially wisdom tooth removal, can provide significant pain relief for patients suffering from impacted or problematic teeth. When a tooth is severely decayed, damaged, or causing overcrowding, its removal can alleviate persistent discomfort and reduce the risk of infection. This procedure also helps maintain proper oral hygiene by eliminating hard-to-reach areas where bacteria can accumulate.
Tooth extractions play a crucial role in preventing and addressing orthodontic problems. In cases of overcrowding, removing one or more teeth can create the necessary space for proper alignment of the remaining teeth. This is particularly relevant for wisdom teeth removal, as these late-emerging molars often cause shifting and misalignment of previously straight teeth.
While the idea of tooth extraction might seem daunting, it can be a cost-effective solution in the long run. By addressing problematic teeth early through extraction, patients can avoid more complex and expensive dental procedures that might become necessary if issues are left untreated. This is especially true for wisdom tooth removal, as impacted wisdom teeth can lead to various complications over time.
The tooth extraction process begins with a thorough examination by Dr. Shahi or Dr. Ni at Dental Health Group in Bonney Lake. This includes a visual inspection of the affected tooth and surrounding area, as well as X-rays to assess the tooth's position and root structure. For wisdom teeth removal, special attention is given to the relationship between the wisdom teeth and nearby nerves or sinuses.
On the day of the extraction, your dentist will begin by administering the agreed-upon anesthesia to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure. For a simple extraction, the tooth is loosened using an instrument called an elevator before being removed with forceps. In cases of impacted wisdom teeth or more complex extractions, a surgical approach may be necessary.
After the tooth extraction, your dentist will provide detailed aftercare instructions to promote healing and prevent complications. This typically includes guidance on managing swelling and discomfort, dietary restrictions, and oral hygiene practices during the recovery period. A gauze pad will be placed over the extraction site to control bleeding, and you'll be advised on how and when to change it.