Do you believe you need a tooth removed but aren’t sure? Are you experiencing tooth pain but don’t know why?
Alexander Dentistry offers tooth extractions for many reasons. Most tooth extractions are performed in the office by general dentist Dr. Alexander. Wisdom teeth removal in our Jacksonville dental office is a common type of tooth extraction. Other teeth may need to be removed if they are causing problems, such as misalignment, severe overcrowding, or significant decay or damage.
Whenever possible, Dr. Alexander will take measures to preserve your natural tooth. Your smile is at its healthiest when all your natural teeth are still in place. Thus, we first aim to restore your affected tooth before recommending extraction. Dr. Alexander can offer several solutions for replacing a missing tooth or teeth, including dental bridges, dentures, and dental implants.
Learn about the benefits of dental implants for missing teeth if you’ve already had a necessary tooth extraction.
Wisdom Teeth Removal in Jacksonville FL
A common type of tooth extraction is the removal of wisdom teeth. The wisdom teeth are your third molars, usually appearing in the late teens or early twenties. Most of the time, the third molars lack adequate space in the jaw to erupt fully or even at all. This common condition is called impaction.
When teeth become impacted, either due to lack of space or simply developing in the wrong place of your jaw, serious problems can arise. The primary concern is damage to adjacent teeth and crowding, but other issues, such as problems with alignment or affecting the TMJ, can occur.
In certain cases, the wisdom tooth that cannot come through becomes inflamed. This causes a sac to develop around the tooth’s root, filling with liquid. This can cause a cyst or an abscess if it becomes infected. If either of these situations goes untreated, serious damage to the underlying bone and surrounding teeth and tissues can result.
Tooth Extraction FAQs
Tooth extractions are a common procedure performed in our dentist office. Learn more by reading the answers to these frequently asked questions.
When should a tooth be extracted?
Always seek the opinion and recommendation of a certified dentist before seeking treatment. Teeth can get damaged by lots of things. Experiencing tooth pain for an extended duration might not mean you have to get the tooth pulled. Most teeth pain is only temporary or superficial due to recent trauma to the mouth. Sometimes, it can become a serious problem without a dentist’s examination.
Can I eat after a tooth extraction?
Drinking liquids is okay, but we do not recommend eating solid foods after tooth extraction. We will give you detailed instructions before and after your tooth removal process.
How long does it take to recover from a tooth extraction?
The tooth socket will take time to heal. Patients usually fully heal from a tooth extraction within one-to-two weeks. You will be able to eat normally after about a week.
Can I go to work after a tooth extraction?
We advise against returning to work immediately after tooth extraction. This will prevent you from accidentally causing damage to the socket and stitches if used. The last thing you want to do is not give it time to heal. Physical activity right after any oral surgery can cause harm.
Does tooth extraction hurt?
We take every precaution to ensure your comfort through the tooth extraction process. We use a local anesthetic to completely numb the area around the extraction site. Depending on the type of extraction or patient preference, we have sedation options, too, so you remain calm through the procedure. You’ll feel some pressure as we slowly work the tooth out of the socket, but no pain. The site will be sore for a few days after. If you feel any severe pain, call our office immediately, as this is abnormal.
What can’t I do after tooth extraction?
Don’t smoke after a tooth extraction, as this inhibits the healing process. It also makes you more likely to develop dry socket. Avoid drinking through a straw or probing the extraction site with your tongue, as these can also disturb the blood clot required for the site to heal. When you brush your teeth and rinse your mouth, do so extremely gently and avoid the extraction site.
Schedule A Dental Exam
Alexander Dentistry can save your mouth structure and improve function, all without compromising the beauty of your smile. If you have concerns or questions regarding tooth extractions, contact our Jacksonville dental office to schedule a consultation with Dr. Don Alexander today.