Dental Extractions in Murfreesboro, TN

Dental extractions, also known as tooth extractions, are dental procedures in which a tooth is removed from its socket in the jawbone. While dentists strive to preserve natural teeth whenever possible, extractions may be necessary for various reasons, including severe decay, gum disease, trauma, overcrowding, or impacted teeth.

Tooth extractions are performed in dental offices by a general dentist in Murfreesboro TN or an oral surgeon under local or general anesthesia. The very thought of tooth extraction may seem a little scary, but here at Stonegate Family Dentistry, our doctors and staff will do their best to provide you a painless procedure in a stress-free environment.  Here's what you need to know about dental extractions: 

What Are the Types of Tooth Extractions?

There are two types of extractions, based on the complexity of the procedure:

• Simple Extraction

Simple extractions are performed on teeth that are visible in the mouth and can be easily removed using forceps. Local anesthesia is typically used to numb the area, and the tooth is gently loosened and lifted out of its socket.

• Surgical Extraction

Surgical extractions are more complex procedures performed on teeth that are impacted, broken below the gumline, or difficult to access. Oral surgeons may need to make an incision in the gum tissue and remove bone to extract the tooth safely.

Reasons for Dental Extractions in Murfreesboro, TN:

• Severe Decay:When a tooth is extensively decayed and cannot be restored with fillings, crowns, or root canal therapy, extraction may be necessary to prevent the spread of infection to surrounding teeth and tissues.
• Gum Disease: Advanced periodontal disease can cause irreversible damage to the supporting structures of the teeth, leading to loose teeth that may require extraction to preserve oral health.
• Trauma: Teeth that are fractured, cracked, or severely damaged due to trauma (such as sports injuries or accidents) may need to be extracted if they cannot be repaired or restored.
• Impacted Teeth:Impacted wisdom teeth, as well as other teeth that are unable to erupt properly due to obstruction or crowding, may need to be extracted to prevent pain, infection, and other complications.
• Orthodontic Treatment:Dental extractions may be recommended by the dentist in 37129, as part of orthodontic treatment to create space for tooth alignment and achieve optimal bite alignment.

What Is the Procedure for Dental Extraction?

During the initial consultation, a detailed record of the patient’s health condition and an X-ray of the affected tooth, essential for any safe tooth extraction, will be made. A wisdom tooth extraction may require a full mouth X-ray to see the exact location of the tooth and its connection with the adjacent tooth. Before the procedure, antibiotics may be prescribed to the patient to avoid infection during the procedure. The patient is advised not to smoke on the day of the extraction to prevent complications.

The area around the extraction is numbed using anesthesia, and the tooth is loosened up. By making use of forceps, the loosened tooth is extracted from its socket. Immediately a blood clot should form in the remaining socket. To stop the bleeding, we may ask the patient to bite down on a gauze pad. Finally, the socket is closed with the help of a few stitches. Call us to learn more.

What Post-Procedure Care is Provided for a Tooth Extraction in Murfreesboro, TN? 

After the extraction, there are few rules that each patient must follow

• Take painkillers and antibiotics as prescribed.
• Avoid smoking as it may prevent healing.
• Eat soft food after the procedure. 
• Practice regular dental hygiene to prevent infection. 
• Avoid brushing too forcefully near the extraction area to prevent irritation.
• Take adequate rest until the anesthetic wears off

Overall, dental extractions are common dental procedures performed to address a variety of dental issues and preserve oral health. If you have a tooth that may require extraction or are experiencing dental pain or discomfort, contact your dentist to schedule an evaluation and discuss your treatment options. Your dentist will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that meets your needs and helps you achieve optimal oral health and comfort.

To find out if you need a tooth extraction, call (615) 624-6919 and schedule an appointment with Stonegate Family Dentistry, Dentist in Murfreesboro, TN.