Tooth Extraction
At The Whole Tooth, we offer comprehensive preventive dentistry to ensure that your teeth are healthy and function well. If you do get a cavity, our priority is to do everything possible to preserve the tooth.
However, sometimes, a tooth is so hopelessly damaged that it is unsalvageable. In this case, our dentist in Dunwoody would recommend tooth extraction as the safest and healthiest option to protect your oral health and general well-being.
Reasons Why We Recommend Tooth Extraction
Dr. Ashley Starnes may recommend removing a tooth in the following situations:
- Severe tooth decay has damaged so much of the tooth that we can’t save it with a filling or dental crown.
- A root infection or dental abscess has progressed beyond the point where it can be resolved with traditional treatment.
- One or more wisdom teeth are causing pain or crowding and putting surrounding healthy teeth at risk.
If tooth extraction is necessary, rest assured that our dentist in Dunwoody will share x-rays and intraoral images with you so you understand why she recommends it. Seeing is believing, and when you can visualize the problem, you can make more confident and informed decisions about the solution.
Your Comfort Is Our Priority
No one wants to hear they’re about to lose a tooth to extraction. We understand, and we will make the process as easy and comfortable as possible for you. Our goal is to help you through your procedure and focus on positive solutions to restore your healthy smile.
We will provide a cozy blanket and neck pillow so you can get comfortable before we begin. TVs in all of our treatment rooms help provide a much-needed distraction from the activity around you.
With powerful anesthetics to numb your tooth, you won’t feel any pain during the procedure. Sedation dentistry with nitrous oxide helps you relax throughout your appointment with no drowsy side effects afterward.
Post-Extraction Care at Home
For a speedy, event-free recovery after your tooth extraction, please follow the instructions we provide:
- Bite gently down on the gauze pad we provide for an hour after you leave our office.
- Using an ice pack and keeping your head elevated as much as possible for 24 hours helps reduce swelling.
- You can eat and drink after removing the gauze pad, but stick to soft foods like yogurt and soup.
- It’s okay to brush your teeth but avoid brushing near the extraction site.
- Do not spit, smoke, or drink through a straw. A protective clot is forming on the site, and all these actions can dislodge it, leading to a painful condition called dry socket.
We will provide you with these instructions in writing, but please don’t hesitate to call our dental office if you have a question or concern.
Please Call to Schedule a Dental Appointment
If you have a badly broken or decayed tooth and think you might need a tooth extraction, please call our Dunwoody, GA dental office. We will be happy to schedule an appointment so that Dr. Starnes can perform an exam and tell you if a tooth extraction is your best option.
