Extractions

A tooth extraction in Pickens, SC is a dental procedure for completely removing one (or more) of your teeth from its socket. This is usually referred to as “pulling” a tooth.

When Is a Tooth Extraction Necessary?

If you have excessive tooth decay that is beyond repair, your dentist will probably recommend you have your tooth pulled. But there are other reasons your dentist might recommend a tooth extraction.

• Tooth trauma
• Overcrowded teeth
• Tooth infection
• Impacted teeth
• A fractured tooth
• Severe gum disease
• Tooth luxation
• A dental injury

What Takes Place During a Tooth Extraction?

Your dentist in Pickens, SC will give you a local anesthetic to numb the affected tooth and the surrounding gums. For a simple extraction, the dentist will then loosen your tooth and gently lift it up to remove it from its socket.

If the tooth is impacted under your gums, your dentist will have to perform a surgical extraction. In this case, the dentist will make a small incision to open your gums. They will then use some forceps to extract the tooth or the tooth fragments from the area.

After your tooth has been removed, the dentist will clean and disinfect the tooth’s socket and then put a piece of gauze over it. You will then bite down on the gauze to help stop the bleeding. Once the bleeding has slowed and the gauze has been removed, you can expect some slight bleeding at the extraction site for the first 24 hours or so.

What Are the Risks of Having a Tooth Extraction?

Any surgical procedure can have risks. However, tooth extractions are very common, with the risks and side effects being rare. With that being said, some people experience infection after surgery. Other risks include dry socket, perforation of the maxillary sinus, nerve injury, and sometimes delayed healing.

What Happens After a Tooth Extraction?

After your tooth extraction, your dentist in Pickens, SC will talk with you about the different tooth replacement options such as dental implants, dentures, bridges, and any other tooth-replacement option they feel would benefit you.