No one wants to hear that they need a tooth extracted, but sometimes, it’s best for our oral health. Our Bakersfield dentist provides reliable and safe tooth extractions to ensure that our patients get the best care possible.
To schedule an appointment, contact our dental office by calling 661-664-9900.
Tooth extraction is a routine dental procedure that involves removing a tooth from its socket. This removal can be necessary for several reasons, including severe tooth decay or damage, crowding, infection, or problems with wisdom teeth.
Our Bakersfield dentist prioritizes keeping your natural teeth healthy. However, there are some cases in which removing a tooth through extraction is best for protecting your overall wellness.
Simple tooth extraction is a dental procedure that involves removing a tooth visible above the gum line. This procedure is usually performed with the use of a local anesthetic, and the dentist uses special tools to loosen the tooth and remove it with forceps. Simple tooth extraction is a relatively quick and straightforward procedure, and the recovery time is fairly short for most patients.
Surgical tooth extraction is a more complex procedure necessary when a tooth is either impacted or hasn’t fully emerged from the gum line. A surgical extraction can include multiple teeth being removed at a time and may require both local anesthetic and dental sedation, and the dentist may need to make an incision in the gum tissue to access the tooth.
In some cases, the dentist may need to remove some bone tissue to fully extract the tooth. The recovery time for surgical tooth extraction can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks depending on the person. The patient may need to take prescription pain medication to manage any discomfort.
Tooth extraction may be a preventative measure to avoid potential dental problems in the future. Common reasons dentists perform tooth extractions include:
The tooth extraction process begins with a thorough examination of the affected tooth and surrounding tissues. Often, patients will need X-rays taken so the dentist can assess the tooth’s position and extent of any damage or decay. Once the patient is prepared, the dentist or oral surgeon administers an anesthetic to numb the area around the tooth. If the tooth is impacted or difficult to remove, an incision may be made in the gum tissue to access the tooth.
Next, our dentist will use specialized tools to loosen the tooth from the socket and carefully remove it. Occasionally, the tooth may need to be broken into smaller pieces to make it easier to remove.
After our dentist has extracted the tooth, the dentist or oral surgeon cleans the area and may place stitches to help the gums heal. The patient will receive instructions on caring for the extraction site, including avoiding certain foods and activities for a while.
After tooth extraction, following proper aftercare instructions is vital to promote healing and prevent complications. Here are some general guidelines for tooth extraction aftercare:
Following these aftercare instructions can help ensure a smooth recovery after tooth extraction. If you experience severe pain or any unusual symptoms or complications, contact our dentist immediately.
While tooth extractions are generally safe and routine procedures, there are potential risks and complications to keep in mind. These may include:
Discuss any concerns with our Bakersfield dentist before the procedure, and carefully follow aftercare instructions to help minimize your risk of complications after getting a tooth pulled.
On average, tooth extraction can range from $120 to $250 for a basic extraction. However, for those getting their wisdom teeth extracted, costs can range between $1,000 to $3,000 per tooth. Your total estimated cost will vary depending on factors such as:
The tooth extraction process is usually not painful, as local anesthetic numbs the area. However, patients may experience some discomfort or pain after the procedure, which is easily manageable with pain medication prescribed by your dentist or oral surgeon.
The recovery time can vary depending on the individual and the complexity of the extraction. Most people can return to normal activities within a few days to a week after the procedure, but it may take several weeks to fully heal.
Dentists generally recommend sticking to soft, cool foods for the first few days after the procedure and avoiding hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that could irritate the extraction site. Be sure to follow any specific aftercare instructions provided by your dentist or oral surgeon.
Many dental professionals will suggest replacing missing teeth to prevent problems with chewing, speaking, and the alignment of surrounding teeth. Your dentist or oral surgeon can discuss replacement options with you, such as dental implants, bridges, or dentures.
While dental professionals will do everything to prioritize saving and protecting their patients’ natural teeth, tooth extraction is sometimes the best option for their oral health. By removing an infected, impacted, or damaged tooth, your dentist can save the surrounding teeth and jaw from further damage.
Learn more about the potential benefits of tooth extraction by contacting our dentist at 661-664-9900. We provide safe oral surgery services to ensure your smile stays beautiful and healthy.
