What Are Tooth Extractions?
Here’s what we can do for your airway in Lakewood, CO.
As airway-focused dentists, Fox Point Dental understands the crucial role that overall breathing can play in proper dental health. It is not uncommon to find that individuals with poor breathing patterns (mouth breathing) have higher risks of decay, dental crowding, and gum disease, all which puts teeth at risk for failure. When it comes to tooth extractions, there are reasons that teeth need to be removed.
First and foremost, in the past it was common practice to remove teeth due to overcrowding and misalignment, making aligning the teeth to be straight easier, but did not help our health status. This makes the mouth smaller, taking up more room for the tongue, leading to higher risk of airway obstruction. This can contribute to obstructive sleep apnea and other breathing issues. This is generally not the reason for extraction that we recommend.
But when there is large decay, periodontal disease, or inability to clean a tooth due to impaction or tipping, an extraction can be necessary. Our team is dedicated to helping with your overall general and dental health, and that includes extractions when necessary. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you achieve optimal oral and overall health.
When Are Tooth Extractions In Lakewood, CO Typically Necessary?
Here are the signs we may need to remove your tooth.
We understand that most patients would prefer to avoid tooth extraction whenever possible, and we share that sentiment. Typically, we only recommend tooth extraction in certain circumstances where it is necessary to prevent further complications.
One reason for extraction is impaction, which occurs when a tooth is growing at an angle and has not yet erupted. This is common with wisdom teeth, which often do not have enough space to grow properly. Severe tooth decay is another reason, as it can cause extreme pain and infection that may require extraction if it reaches the root and can't be saved with a filling.
Periodontal or gum disease can also lead to extraction if left untreated and the gums and bone deteriorate, causing tooth loss and pain. Lastly, severe trauma to the mouth can cause irreparable damage to the tooth and root, making extraction necessary to prevent infection and further discomfort.
We only recommend extraction when leaving the tooth in will lead to more complications. At our practice, we prioritize preserving natural teeth whenever possible, and we offer a range of treatments to address dental concerns and improve oral health.
Contact us to schedule an appointment and learn more about our services.
What Happens During a Tooth Extraction in Lakewood, Colorado?
Here’s what you can expect at your tooth extraction appointment
At our Lakewood dental clinic, we use a typical tooth extraction process that involves several steps to ensure a safe and comfortable experience for our patients.
First, we apply a bit of anesthetic to numb the tooth, gum, and bone tissue to keep you comfortable during the procedure. Then, if the tooth is below the gum line, we make an incision to access the tooth and enlarge the socket surrounding it to separate it from the ligament holding it in place. The tooth is then gently rocked back and forth to release it.
After the tooth is extracted, we thoroughly clean the socket to remove any residue or infection and then apply gauze to stop any bleeding. In some cases, stitches may be required to seal the socket. We may also ask you to bite down on the gauze to apply pressure if the site is bleeding and to apply ice to the outside of your face to reduce swelling.
We provide detailed instructions on post-extraction care to help ensure a speedy recovery. Our team is committed to providing exceptional care throughout the entire extraction process and beyond, so please don't hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or concerns.
There are times when collaboration with an oral surgeon or a periodontist can be necessary. We will always help guide you in the best and safest decisions to get you the best possible outcome!
Frequently Asked Questions About Tooth Extractions
Here are our most commonly asked questions about tooth extractions in our Lakewood dental clinic.
We understand that tooth extraction can be a difficult decision for patients. Tooth extraction may be necessary due to severe tooth decay, impaction, gum disease, or trauma to the mouth. Extraction may also be recommended as part of a larger treatment plan to address airway and breathing issues.
Proper dental health is crucial to overall breathing and sleeping wellness, and extraction can be a necessary step to ensure optimal oral health and well-being. If you are experiencing tooth pain or discomfort or have been recommended for extraction by your dentist, it is important to seek out a qualified professional who can guide you through the process with care and precision.
Contact us to schedule an appointment and learn more about how we can help you achieve optimal oral health and well-being.
We want to assure patients that tooth extraction is a routine procedure that can be completed with minimal discomfort. Tooth extraction is typically performed under local anesthesia, and sedation options are also available to help patients feel more relaxed. Pain and discomfort can be managed with over-the-counter medication and proper post-extraction care. Most patients can resume normal activities within a few days of the extraction.
Our team is committed to ensuring a safe and comfortable experience for our patients and providing detailed post-extraction care instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.
While healing times can vary, most patients can expect the initial healing process to take about 1-2 weeks. After the extraction, it is normal to experience some pain and swelling in the affected area, but pain can be managed with over-the-counter medication. Patients should avoid hard or crunchy foods and smoking or using a straw for at least a week after the extraction.
Over the next few days, swelling should gradually subside, and any residual pain should lessen. By the end of the first week, patients should start to feel more comfortable and able to resume normal activities. It is important to continue to follow post-extraction care instructions to ensure a successful healing process. Our team is always available to answer any questions or concerns during the healing process and to work with patients to ensure the best possible outcome.
We believe that proper after-care is essential for a successful tooth extraction and a smooth healing process. After the extraction, we provide detailed after-care instructions that include keeping the gauze in place, applying ice to the affected area, avoiding hard or crunchy foods, and avoiding smoking or using a straw for at least a week. It is also important to manage any pain or discomfort with over-the-counter medication as needed and to keep the extraction site clean by rinsing gently with warm salt water.
Patients should contact our office if they experience persistent pain or swelling or have any concerns about their healing process.
Whenever possible, we aim to preserve natural teeth and explore alternative options before recommending extraction. Alternative options may include root canal procedures, crowns or bridges, orthodontic treatment, and periodontal treatments. Our team takes a personalized approach to dental care and considers the best options for each patient's unique situation.
Patients concerned about extraction are encouraged to schedule a consultation to discuss their options and explore alternative treatments that may be appropriate for their case.
Option 1: The cost of a tooth extraction can vary depending on several factors, including the extraction complexity, the tooth location, and the patient's insurance coverage. It is important to schedule a consultation to discuss your individual case and to receive a detailed estimate of the cost of the procedure.
Our team is committed to providing affordable and accessible dental care to our patients, and we will work with you to help you understand your options and find a solution that fits your budget and oral health needs.
Option 2: The cost of a tooth extraction can vary depending on several factors. A simple extraction can cost between $75 to $300, while a more complex extraction can cost between $225 to $600 or more. Patients should schedule a consultation with our team to receive a detailed estimate of the cost of the procedure, and those with dental insurance may have coverage for some or all of the cost.
Our team is committed to providing affordable and accessible dental care to our patients and will work with them to find a solution that fits their budget and oral health needs.
It is essential to be cautious with eating and drinking after a tooth extraction to promote proper healing and minimize complications. Patients should avoid eating or drinking for at least an hour after the extraction to allow a blood clot to form. It is necessary to avoid hot or spicy foods and to stick to soft foods that are easy to chew. They should also avoid using a straw or smoking for at least a week after the extraction to avoid disturbing the extraction site. Patients should stay hydrated but avoid using a straw and drinking alcohol for at least 24 hours after the extraction.
As the healing journey continues, patients can gradually reintroduce normal foods and drinks into their diet but should continue to avoid hard or crunchy foods and practice good oral hygiene.
Whether a replacement tooth or implant is needed after extraction depends on the location of the extracted tooth and the patient's situation. If a tooth replacement is recommended, our team will work with the patient to determine the best action course based on their needs and preferences. Options may include dental implants, bridges, or dentures. Our team provides a detailed consultation and discusses the pros and cons of each option to help the patient make an informed decision that fits their budget and oral health needs.
We provide personalized care and guidance to ensure the best possible outcome.
There are two types of tooth extractions: simple and surgical. A simple extraction is a straightforward procedure for easily accessible teeth, while surgical extraction is more complex and required for impacted or hard-to-reach teeth. Simple extractions are done under local anesthesia, while surgical extractions may require an incision in the gum and sometimes stitches. Our team determines the best course of action for each patient based on their individual needs and the condition of the tooth.
We provide detailed information and guidance to ensure a successful and comfortable extraction experience.
While tooth extraction is generally a safe procedure, there are some potential risks and complications, including bleeding, infection, dry socket, nerve damage, and damage to surrounding teeth. Bleeding is common, infection can occur if bacteria enter the extraction site. A dry socket is a painful condition that may happen when the blood is detached, and nerve damage is rare but serious. Our team takes every precaution to minimize these risks and provides detailed after-care instructions to promote a smooth and successful healing process.
Patients should contact our office if they experience any concerning symptoms after their extraction.
Learn More About Tooth Extractions In Lakewood, Colorado
For additional reading about tooth extractions and general dentistry services, check out our general dentistry resources:
We’re Not Just Tooth Doctors.
We look at your whole health.
At Fox Point Dental in Lakewood, Colorado, we take a holistic approach to dentistry and focus on the overall health of our patients. As functional dentists, we don't just treat dental issues at face value. We investigate the root cause of the problem to provide long-lasting solutions.
Good oral hygiene practices like brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash, as well as regular dental cleanings, are essential. However, they don't always address the underlying cause of dental issues such as tooth decay, misaligned teeth, bad breath, and others. These problems can stem from airway obstructions, overcrowded mouths, and narrow dental arches resulting from mouth breathing and sleep-disordered breathing.
Our focus on functional dentistry allows us to address the source of the problem and prevent future dental problems, while improving the quality of your life. Our aim is to help you and your loved ones smile with confidence, breathe easier, and lead a healthier life. We cater to patients of all ages and provide comprehensive dental care, from preventative cleanings to advanced procedures.
