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Tooth Extractions in Creston, IA

Time to Part Ways With A Troublesome Tooth?

If you’re experiencing tooth pain or discomfort, you may need a tooth extraction. Dr. Michael Buck, our top-rated Creston dentist, can perform extractions for various reasons, including severe decay, advanced periodontal disease, or a tooth that has broken and cannot be repaired.

Poorly positioned teeth, such as impacted teeth, or teeth that require removal in preparation for orthodontic treatment may also need to be extracted. Discover if tooth removal is the best solution for your toothaches.

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woman with mouth pain

Why Is Tooth Extraction Necessary?

Although tooth extraction is a last resort, it may be necessary to prevent problems that can affect your dental health. Leaving a damaged tooth in your mouth can lead to difficulty chewing, problems with your jaw joint, and shifting teeth that can affect your bite. In some cases, extraction may be the best option to prevent further damage and discomfort.

Signs You Need a Tooth Extracted

Our dentist in Creston, IA, may determine you need a tooth extracted if he notices signs of:

Severe Tooth Decay

If tooth decay is left untreated, it can progress and cause significant damage to the tooth. In some cases, the decay may be so severe that the tooth cannot be saved and requires extraction.

Advanced Periodontal Disease

Advanced periodontal disease can lead to the loosening and loss of teeth. In some cases, teeth affected by periodontal disease may need to be extracted to prevent further damage.

Broken or Fractured Teeth

Teeth that are broken or fractured in a way that cannot be repaired may require extraction. This is often the case with teeth that have broken below the gum line.

Impacted Teeth

Impacted teeth are teeth that are unable to fully emerge from the gums. This can cause pain and discomfort and may require extraction.

Overcrowding

Teeth that are poorly positioned in the mouth or are causing overcrowding may need to be extracted in preparation for orthodontic treatment.

patient at the dentist

The Tooth Extraction Process

The extraction process typically involves a local anesthetic to numb the tooth, jaw bone, and gums surrounding the area. We also offer sedation dentistry for patients with dental anxiety. You may feel slight pressure during the extraction as Dr. Buck rocks the tooth to widen the socket for removal. Although you may feel pressure, you shouldn’t feel pain because the anesthetic numbs the nerves. If you experience pain during the extraction, let Dr. Buck know immediately.

Sectioning a Tooth

In some cases, sectioning a tooth is necessary. Tooth sectioning involves cutting the tooth into sections to remove it if it’s firmly anchored in its socket or if the root is curved and the socket can’t expand enough to remove it. Dr. Buck will determine whether sectioning a tooth is necessary based on your case.

Tooth Extraction Aftercare

After tooth extraction, it’s necessary to follow all of Dr. Buck’s aftercare instructions to ensure a successful recovery.

  • If bleeding or oozing persists, place another gauze pad and bite firmly for another 30 minutes.
  • Avoid rinsing vigorously, sucking on straws, smoking, drinking alcohol, or brushing your teeth near the extraction site for 72 hours.
  • Limit vigorous exercise for the next 24 hours to prevent increased blood pressure and bleeding from the extraction site.
  • After the tooth extraction, expect some pain and swelling. Apply an ice pack to the area to keep swelling to a minimum.
  • Take pain medications and antibiotics as prescribed.
  • Drink lots of fluids and eat nutritious, soft food for at least 24 hours. You can resume your regular diet as soon as you are comfortable.
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