Tooth Extractions – Lake Zurich, IL

Reasons Why Tooth Extractions Are Necessary

In what situations might tooth extractions be necessary? The only way to find out is to meet with a dentist in Lake Zurich who can examine your affected tooth and determine the best course of action. Tooth extraction might be recommended if:

• Your tooth is too badly damaged or decayed to be repaired.
• You have a tooth infection that can’t be treated with a root canal.
• Gum disease has loosened your teeth.
• Crowded teeth are getting in the way of orthodontic care.
• You have an impacted tooth.

The Process of Removing a Tooth

Removing a tooth requires that we first determine whether it is above or below the surface. Those that are fully erupted can be extracted using specialized dental instruments and what is known as a simple extraction.

This process involves administering local anesthesia to numb the tooth and its surrounding area. We’ll then use the appropriate instruments to loosen the tooth, gently moving it back and forth until it detaches and can be removed from the socket.

Teeth that have not erupted will require an outside referral for removal, as the process is more invasive and requires a surgical procedure.

Tooth Extraction Aftercare

Making sure you heal properly after having a tooth extracted is essential, and it is why our team at Grand Dental – Lake Zurich will provide you with detailed post-operative instructions to follow at home. They include:

• Avoiding strenuous activity for at least 24 hours.
• Avoiding the use of tobacco products and not smoking for 24 hours.
• Avoiding straws and spitting, as this can cause the blood clot to dislodge and form a dry socket.
• Brushing your teeth after a full 24 hours has passed.
• Keeping your head elevated while sleeping to prevent continuous bleeding.
• Taking over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribed medications as instructed.
• Avoiding hard, chewy, or crunchy foods and instead eating a soft food diet (i.e., scrambled eggs, yogurt, oatmeal, mashed potatoes, soup, etc.)