The Castleberry Center Family & Cosmetic Dentistry
Tooth Extractions – Houston, TX
Safe and Comfortable Tooth Removal Treatment
While Dr. Castleberry and his team work hard to help patients avoid the need for extracting teeth, sometimes the treatment is necessary to protect the overall health of your smile. It’s never our first choice, so if we do recommend it, it’s because all other options have been considered. Those who are unfamiliar with the tooth extraction process are encouraged to call and schedule an appointment with our office today. We’ll examine your mouth and create a personalized treatment plan that meets your needs to the fullest!
Reasons Why Tooth Extractions Are Necessary
While there are many reasons for tooth removal, the most common cause is usually severe decay that no restorations or amount of root canal therapy can resolve. However, other common causes we may remove teeth include:
- To make room for orthodontic treatment and ensure results remain
- To ensure the successful placement and longevity of a full or partial denture
- A child’s temporary (baby) tooth is not falling out on its own
- A tooth has become impacted (or trapped underneath a tooth or existing gum tissue), which can trigger dental infections
Tooth removal is never taken lightly, which is why when it’s recommended, it’s because your mouth is at much greater risk if you don’t have your tooth removed.
The Process of Removing a Tooth
To remove a tooth, Dr. Castleberry uses a pair of dental forceps as well as a dental elevator. The elevator is designed to remove the tooth from the periodontal ligament, a group of specialized connective tissue fibers that keep the tooth in place. Once he elevates the tooth out of its socket, he’ll gently rock it back and forth until it has fully released from the jaw. From there, he’ll grab the tooth with a pair of dental forceps and carefully take it out. Dr. Castleberry holds the expertise necessary to replace teeth with dental implants. He’ll make sure to discuss this option ahead of your tooth extraction as it’s crucial to your long-term oral health to replace teeth after they have been removed.
Tooth Extraction Aftercare
It is very important that you keep the extraction site clean during your recovery period. Not only will this speed up the healing process, but it will prevent complications from developing (such as infections). Make sure to take all prescribed medications from our office and rinse your mouth out with salt water about 24 hours after your procedure. This mixture is made up of about 8 ounces of warm water and a half teaspoon of salt and effectively cleans the treatment site. Additionally, patients should remember to:
- Avoid smoking
- Avoid drinking liquids with a straw
- Keep the head propped up while sleeping
- Get plenty of rest and avoid strenuous activity
Once you’ve healed, you can start thinking about your tooth replacement treatment. Replacing teeth not only makes your smile complete, but ensures you can eat the foods you enjoy, keep your jawbone tissue intact, and prevent dental drift or changes in your bite.