Tooth Extractions
Cottage Grove, Wisconsin
At Wisconsin Family Dental, we believe that natural teeth are meant to last a lifetime. We never spare any effort to repair a damaged tooth, restoring its function and natural appearance. However, there are times when we have no choice but to extract a tooth. If that's the case, you can rest assured that you'll receive the highest quality care for a gentle and stress-free experience.
Do You Need to Have a Tooth Extraction?
Dr. Behling offers pediatric and adult tooth extractions as a last resort to alleviate pain, prevent complications, and restore your oral health.
Here's a look at some of the reasons Dr. Behling may recommend having a tooth pulled out:
- Irreparable Tooth Damage: Irreparable damage due to extensive tooth decay or trauma may leave us with no choice but to have the tooth pulled out. We may recommend a tooth replacement option, such as dental implant restoration, fixed bridge, or removable partial denture, to avoid complications arising from missing a tooth.
- Large Tooth Fractures: Tooth cracks or fractures can develop due to many factors, including teeth grinding and clenching (bruxism), constant chewing forces, the natural aging process, or wear and tear. If a fracture becomes too large, especially if it runs vertically, the tooth will likely not be repairable and will require an extraction.
- Periodontal or Gum Disease: Periodontal disease is a progressive condition that, if not treated, can destroy the bone and tissues holding the teeth in place. A loose tooth that's lost its support usually can't be saved and may leave us with no choice but to extract it.
- Orthodontic Treatment: We sometimes need to perform selective tooth extractions as a component of an orthodontic treatment plan to correct crooked teeth or a crowded mouth. That helps create the space required for the remaining teeth to move into alignment.
- Impacted Teeth: Impacted teeth are trapped in the jawbone, as is often the case with wisdom teeth. That may cause a host of problems, including pain, decay, and infection, necessitating their extraction. In some cases, we may refer you to an oral surgeon for wisdom tooth removal.
What Should You Expect?
There are two types of extraction, simple and surgical. Both are performed under local anesthesia for your comfort. A simple extraction is required to remove a tooth that's visible and easily accessible. A surgical extraction, on the other hand, is a more involved procedure needed to remove an impacted, broken, or fragile tooth or one with curved, long roots.
After you have a tooth extracted, the healing will begin, and a blood clot will form in the socket. Make sure to avoid smoking, spitting, rinsing forcefully, drinking through a straw, or brushing and flossing around the extraction site for at least 24 hours to avoid dislodging the clot. Otherwise, you risk developing a painful condition called dry socket. If you experience increased pain, swelling, or bleeding, contact our office for guidance.
What Is Socket Preservation?
Right after a tooth extraction, the jawbone starts reshaping and recontouring. That's why we sometimes perform a procedure known as "socket preservation." That involves placing a bone graft to protect and preserve the alveolar ridge, preventing bone loss and allowing for the success of a future dental implant. Dr. Behling will explain the procedure and help you determine if it's right for you.
Tooth Replacements Near Me in Cottage Grove, WI
If you have a painful or damaged tooth, Wisconsin Family Dental is here to help. Dr. Behling and her team will do everything possible to save the tooth. If, however, an extraction is the only viable solution, you can rest assured that our gentle approach to dentistry and Theo, our snuggle-ready dog, will help you relax during the procedure.
We invite you to call our office at 608-839-9200 to schedule an appointment or online today!