Why Do I Need a Tooth Extraction?

At High Street Dentistry, our primary goal is to help you keep your natural teeth for as long as possible. However, there are times when having a tooth extracted is the only viable option to relieve your pain and improve your oral health. If that’s the case, you can rest assured that you’ll receive outstanding, gentle care for a comfortable and stress-free experience. 

Why Would You Need to Have a Tooth Extracted?

The following are some reasons we may recommend having a tooth extracted:

• Extensive Tooth Damage: If decay or infection reaches the inner layers of a tooth, we typically recommend a root canal treatment. However, if the damage is beyond repair, we may have no choice but to remove the tooth. 
• Tooth Fracture: If a tooth is fractured or broken, especially if the fracture extends below the gum line, there’s not much we can do to save it. Extracting the tooth is often necessary to alleviate your discomfort and safeguard the health of the remaining teeth. 
• Periodontal (Gum) Disease: Advanced periodontal disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults. The progressive condition can destroy the bone and tissues supporting the teeth, leading to loose teeth, which may need to be extracted. 
• Poorly Positioned Teeth: If you have a crowded mouth, we may recommend selective extractions to make space for the remaining teeth to shift into position. Depending on the severity of the case, we may recommend removing one or more of your teeth. 

What Should You Expect?

We will start by numbing the area surrounding the affected tooth with a local anesthetic to ensure you feel no pain during the procedure. Depending on your situation, you may require a simple or a surgical tooth extraction. 

A simple extraction is needed when a tooth is visible and easily accessible. However, if the tooth is weak, fractured, or impacted, meaning it’s stuck in the jaw, you’ll need a more involved procedure known as a surgical extraction. Most of our patients report minimal discomfort before and after the procedure. 

Post-Extraction Care

Once a tooth is removed, the healing will begin, and there are some things you can do to help ensure a smooth recovery. Immediately after extraction, you’ll bite down on a gauze to reduce bleeding and encourage a clot to form in the socket. Make sure you rest and relax for the remainder of the day, and take your prescribed pain medication as needed to ease any discomfort. Eat soft foods, avoid chewing on the side of the extraction site, and use an ice pack to reduce swelling. 

It’s important to refrain from smoking, drinking through a straw, spitting forcefully, or rinsing vigorously for the first 24 hours to avoid dislodging the clot forming in the socket. Otherwise, you risk developing a painful condition called dry socket. If you experience increased pain, bleeding, or swelling at the extraction site, or if you have any concerns, make sure to contact our office for guidance. 

Considerations After Tooth Extraction

Leaving a gap in your smile can cause the teeth and jaw to shift out of alignment, leading to a crowded mouth, problems with the bite, and a host of oral health complications. Our team at High Street Dentistry will discuss tooth replacement options, such as dental bridges, partial dentures, or dental implants, to safeguard your oral health and enhance the appearance of your smile. 

Teeth Extractions Near Me in Jefferson City, MO

If you have a painful or damaged tooth, our team at High Street Dentistry will do everything possible to preserve it and restore your healthy smile. However, if an extraction is necessary, you can count on our skilled and compassionate team for exceptional, gentle care. Call us to schedule your appointment today!