Dr. Brent Engelberg performs tooth extractions in Arlington Heights, IL dentist office. Tooth extraction is often the treatment of last resort, but we recommend it for a variety of dental problems:
- Teeth with extreme decay or infection
- Advanced gum disease to prevent further damage to bone and other tissue
- A tooth that is blocking another tooth
- Wisdom teeth that are impacted or affecting other teeth
Simple Vs. Complex Tooth Extractions
There are two different kinds of tooth extractions. Simple tooth extractions occur when the tooth has already erupted and is above the surface. The dentist thoroughly numbs the area around the tooth with a local anesthetic. We use a tool called an elevator to gently loosen the tooth from the socket, rocking it back and forth to break connections. Then, the tooth is gently removed from the mouth. This process is quick and easy and shouldn’t disrupt your normal life much.
Complex extractions occur when the tooth is impacted under the gums. These need surgical extractions. Typically, you see them in the case of wisdom teeth that haven’t erupted yet. However, they may also be needed if the crown of your tooth breaks off and the tooth root remains in the jaw. Sedation dentistry is usually used for these extractions as incisions need to be made. The downtime after this procedure is a bit longer.
Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Wisdom tooth extraction is a rite of passage that most people go through. Usually, there’s not enough room in our mouths for this extra set of molars. They’re also likely to get impacted or stuck under the gumline, and can cause infection. We monitor the development of your wisdom teeth during your regular dental visits. We want to catch any problems as soon as possible and ensure that we take care of them.
Wisdom teeth require a complex surgical extraction. We’ll talk to you about your sedation options and determine the one that’s right for your needs. After the procedure, you’ll get stitches and will need to rest for a few days. Foods have to start with liquids or extremely soft foods and slowly progress to a full diet again. Follow the aftercare instructions given to you by the dentist to ensure that you heal properly.
The Tooth Extraction Process
Tooth extraction is a quick procedure that uses a local anesthetic, but Dr. Engelberg offers sedation dentistry options for patients with dental anxiety. After your tooth extraction, your dentist will discuss tooth replacement options to restore your dental health and prevent the development of additional dental problems.
Prompt tooth replacement is important to avoid the development of more complex dental problems: periodontal disease, shifting teeth, changes in the bite, and shrinkage of bone in the jaw.
Dr. Engelberg offers comprehensive services for replacing your extracted tooth (or teeth) and will recommend the appropriate option for your unique dental health and cosmetic concerns:
- Dental implants
- Dental bridges
- Dentures and partials
Tooth Extraction FAQs
What not to do when you have a tooth extracted?
Avoid chewing with the area where the tooth was to give it time to heal before applying excess force. Also, avoid smoking, drinking through a straw, and any sucking motions. This can bring bacteria into your mouth and cause an infection in your open gum.
How soon after tooth extraction can I brush my teeth with toothpaste?
Don’t brush or rinse your teeth for the day following their tooth extraction. The day after the extraction, patients may brush their teeth. Consider brushing without toothpaste for the first few days. Spitting out the toothpaste for around five days after the procedure causes problems with the clotting process.
Do tooth extractions hurt?
Yes, having a tooth pulled can be painful. To help make the experience more comfortable, dentists usually use an anesthetic or sedation. Over-the-counter pain medication helps you manage and deal with pain and swelling for the first few days post-operation.
What are my restrictions after having a tooth extraction?
Avoid smoking, spitting, or sucking through a straw for at least 24 hours after the procedure. These can cause the area the tooth was pulled from to lose its clotting and slow down the healing process. Avoid tobacco products and alcoholic drinks, including mouthwash, for at least 24 hours after the procedure.
Schedule a dental exam online or give us a call at (847) 230-9703 today.