Nobody particularly looks forward to tooth extraction. But at Birmingham Dental in Birmingham, Michigan, we can at least help make the extraction process as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. If you have a tooth that needs to come out, it is often best not to wait.
What is a Tooth Extraction?
Tooth extraction is the process we employ to remove a tooth from its socket. Tooth extraction is somewhat invasive and may require some recovery time, but also typically a straightforward, standard procedure handled by a general dentist.
At Birmingham Dental, we have extensive experience with tooth extractions. We will use state-of-the-art technology and anesthesia, highly-trained specialists, and only the best-practice approach to maximize comfort and ensure safety during your tooth removal. We will remove the visible tooth section above the gums (the crown) and the tooth root from the socket.
You want a dentist you can trust to handle the procedure. We are qualified to handle a tooth extraction procedure, and you can trust us to ensure everything goes as smoothly as possible. We also have restorative dentistry options such as implants and crowns to replace your tooth after extraction.
Simple Extractions
Simple extractions are relatively straightforward procedures that can be performed by your dentist in the office, requiring little to no major recovery time. This type of extraction is done on teeth clearly visible in the mouth and not still hiding beneath the gums. These will be performed using local anesthesia.
Surgical Extractions
A different approach will need to be taken for teeth that aren’t visible in the mouth. Sometimes teeth have broken, leaving only the root intact, and other times—like with most wisdom teeth removal—the tooth simply hasn’t erupted yet. Whatever the case may be, surgical extraction will be the best option for having it removed.
Why Have Your Tooth Extracted?
Tooth extraction is often the last resort for dental professionals – and if there is a possibility of treating a tooth rather than removing it, Dr. Coburn and Dr. Sgalia will often work towards this.
There are various reasons why an extraction may be necessary:
- Tooth decay or infection has reached deep into the tooth.
Sometimes a procedure such as a root canal can save your tooth and keep it in place. Your dentist can help you determine whether extraction is the best option.
- Baby teeth aren’t falling out in time for the permanent teeth to grow in.
It is not extremely common, but it does happen – sometimes adults will have both baby and adult teeth in their mouth simultaneously, and the tooth crowding may require extraction.
- Orthodontic preparation.
Braces may work better if there is more room in the mouth.
- Wisdom teeth are erupting.
Not every patient requires wisdom teeth removal, but wisdom teeth often cause overcrowding and other problems when they start to erupt.
- Accident or injury.
Sometimes we can restore a broken or displaced tooth if we work on it soon enough after the injury. But sometimes, the injury is too extensive, or we weren’t able to work on it soon enough, and the tooth should come out.
How Long Does It Take To Recover From a Tooth Extraction?
Typically, Dr. Coburn and Dr. Sgalia request that you allow yourself at least 48 to 72 hours for recovery. This should give enough time for the treated area to heal and your mouth to adjust. You’ll want to avoid eating hard foods and stick to things like yogurt and ice cream during this time. After that, you should be able to resume your normal activities as long as you are feeling ok. You may notice that the soft tissue around the extraction site will take a bit longer to heal fully, but everything should be back to normal in about 3-4 weeks.
Get Started on Your Tooth Extraction in Birmingham
Call our office and schedule an appointment today if you think you may need a tooth extraction in Birmingham, MI. It often is best not to put the procedure off for too long, as a tooth that needs extraction can cause problems when left untreated.