Tooth Extractions

Although our primary objective is to preserve and care for your natural teeth, there are situations where the best course of action is to extract a tooth. We work to make extractions as easy as possible so you can concentrate on a quick recovery.

Tooth Extractions in Pinson, AL

Tooth extraction is typically a swift process where anesthesia is used to ensure your comfort throughout. However, the crucial step lies in the post-operative recovery. Immediately following the tooth extraction, we need to make sure we control the bleeding and encourage a proper healing process. This includes applying gentle pressure with a gauze pad for 30 to 45 minutes to form a blood clot, which must not be disturbed for the next 24 hours.

To alleviate swelling, we advise using an ice pack on the outer cheek initially, followed by a warm compress once the swelling subsides for added comfort. Pain management is addressed with prescribed painkillers. Additionally, rinsing the extraction site gently with warm salt water aids in maintaining cleanliness and promoting healing.

 

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graphic of a tooth extraction
  • When and why are wisdom teeth removed?

    Wisdom teeth, the last set of teeth to emerge, commonly appear at the rear of the mouth, typically during late teens or early adulthood. However, their tendency to grow at odd angles and potentially disrupt the alignment by impacting adjacent teeth prompts many individuals to consider extraction. The constrained space within the oral cavity further necessitates their removal. Around 85% of adults eventually undergo wisdom tooth extraction to alleviate potential complications.

    Learn About Removing Wisdom Teeth
  • How do you prevent dry socket after tooth extraction?

    When you have a tooth extracted, you develop a blood clot shortly after the surgery to begin the healing process. If this blood clot becomes dislodged before your mouth has fully healed it can expose the bone and can cause pain, this is called dry socket.

    Tips For Preventing Dry Socket

    1. Avoid straws or anything that creates a suction movement of air and cheek muscles.
    2. Avoid smoking tobacco, marijuana or vaping as fast inhalation can dislodge your blood clot and the chemicals may prevent healing or cause an infection. We would strongly encourage you to wait until more than one week after extraction.
    3. Only eat soft foods like applesauce, yogurt, and mashed potatoes for the first day or two.
    4. Ask us about any medicines you’re taking to ensure they don’t negatively impact the healing process.
    5. Practice proper oral hygiene to keep your mouth clean and use an antibacterial mouthwash.
    6. Follow your doctor’s instructions on proper oral care to improve recovery time.
  • Does dry socket heal on its own?

    Dry socket can be extremely painful and poses an elevated risk of infection, potentially prolonging the healing process. However, our office is equipped to help alleviate this discomfort. We can provide a medicated gauze specifically designed to reduce pain in the affected socket. Dry sockets will recover naturally as long as proper care instructions are followed and an infection is avoided.

     

     

  • What causes the need for tooth extraction?

    Tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth from its socket in the bone. Tooth extraction usually occurs when a tooth has been broken or damaged by decay and there is too much damage for the tooth to be repaired by a filling or crown.

    However, there are other reasons for tooth extraction including, extra teeth growing in that are blocking others, baby teeth that haven’t fallen out in time for the permanent teeth to come in, braces, or wisdom teeth that are commonly removed for medical reasons.

Questions About Tooth Extractions?

If you have any questions about tooth extractions or for a consultation—contact us or schedule your appointment using the link below, or explore the numerous other dental services we offer.

Deerfoot Dental

6735 Old Springville Rd
Pinson, AL 35126
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Hours

Monday - Thursday: 8:00 am to 5:00 pm
Friday: 8:00 am to 12:00 pm (by appointment only)
Saturday & Sunday: Closed

Phone

(205) 810-0844

Email Address

info@deerfootdentist.com