Tooth Extraction

Advanced decay, trauma, impaction, and other dental problems are often best treated with tooth extraction.

The doctors of Harrison Dental Group regularly perform the treatment, which provides oral health benefits and is virtually painless.

Why would one of our Fort Wayne, IN, dentists recommend extraction?

Benefits of Dental Extraction

We often think of tooth extraction as a last resort but the removal of a damaged tooth can open the door to a wide range of restorations and procedures, including orthodontics or the placement of one or more dental implants. Following the extraction procedure at our Fort Wayne, IN dental practice, patients can benefit from:

Improved Comfort

Many patients come to our Fort Wayne dental practice in severe pain due to advanced decay, a root infection, abscess, or other complication that requires extraction. While you may think of tooth extraction as an unpleasant experience, many patients enjoy relief from oral pain following the straightforward procedure. In fact, a 2009 study published in the International Endodontic Journal found 54 percent of root canal patients experienced no pain at all. Our doctors will take great care to ensure that you are comfortable throughout your treatment and can often provide same-day treatment.

Restored Oral Health

Many of the dental problems that lead to the need for this procedure can place the health of your mouth in jeopardy. Left untreated, many of these issues would advance to the point where serious and invasive treatments are required. A root canal infection can spread to the jawbone, for example, if the molar is not treated using root canal therapy or extraction. Following this form of dentistry, you can enjoy restored oral health and peace of mind.

Preparation for Orthodontics

Most people don’t think of dental extraction as part of orthodontic dentistry but crowding can complicate orthodontic treatments. If you have multiple overlapping or crowded teeth, the safe and gentle removal of even one tooth can prepare your teeth for effective and discreet Invisalign treatments. These clear aligners gently move your teeth into the proper alignment through micro-movements.

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Dangers of Postponing the Removal of a Damaged Tooth

An infected, impacted, or severely decayed tooth can compromise the health of your entire mouth. Typically, these dental problems do not resolve on their own. Impacted teeth, such as the canines, are unable to fully emerge due to crowding and other factors. In other cases, these are the third molars, also known as wisdom teeth. Wisdom teeth are more prone to decay, and the position of an impacted molar can lead to dental crowding, swelling of the gum tissue, and other concerns.

If you have been told by your dentist that you require the removal of a tooth, we recommend undergoing that procedure at our Fort Wayne dental clinic as soon as possible so you can enjoy improved oral health and a lower risk of complications.

Schedule Your Dental Exam Today

Tooth extraction is often more comfortable than most patients expect. If you have an advanced infection or a tooth that is causing complications for your oral health, one of our doctors can safely and gently extract the problematic tooth and restore health to your smile. Following the procedure, we can explain which restorative options we offer to address tooth loss.

When you choose our team, you will receive the very best care. Our founder, Dr. David Harrison, has more than 30 years of professional experience. To schedule your next visit to our Fort Wayne office, please book online or call:

(260) 747-4747

Schedule a Consultation

Do I Need a Tooth Extraction?

While some individuals may be asymptomatic, most patients who require tooth extraction are already experiencing oral pain. Common causes for this procedure include:

Symptoms that accompany these dental problems include the sudden onset of pain, heightened sensitivity to temperature (hot and cold food and drinks), and swollen gum tissue.

How Are Extractions Performed?

Tooth extraction is a safe and straightforward procedure that can be performed at our Fort Wayne dental practice.

Anesthesia

First, one of our dentists will administer local anesthesia to numb the tooth and surrounding tissue so you do not feel discomfort during the procedure. Patients can also request sedation.

Extraction

Once you are comfortable, one of our doctors will make incisions to access the tooth if it is impacted. Next, they will use a special tool to gently loosen and extract the tooth. Molars may need to be broken into smaller pieces in order to be safely removed.

Sutures

Once the tooth is removed, any incisions will be sutured and gauze will be placed over the extraction site to control bleeding. Following your procedure, a blood clot will form.

Recovery

Recovery usually takes a few days, and most patients are able to resume work the next day as long as their job does not involve strenuous activities. You will be provided with detailed recovery guidelines that should be followed closely.

Your Recovery Tips

Take pain medications or antibiotics as prescribed

Periodically bite on gauze pads to reduce bleeding from the extraction site

Apply ice to reduce swelling

Relax for 24 hours following extraction and to limit activity for a few days

Refrain from spitting, rinsing, or using a straw for a period of time to avoid dislodging the blood clot

Eat soft foods until the area heals sufficiently

Avoid smoking or consuming alcohol while you recover

How Much Does Tooth Extraction Cost?

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What Are My Tooth-Replacement Options?

Following an extraction, you may become a good candidate for:

Dental Bridges

A dental bridge is an ideal solution for patients who are missing one or multiple consecutive teeth. The false teeth can be anchored to nearby abutment teeth using two dental crowns.

Learn More about Bridges

Dentures

If you are missing an entire dental arch, you may be a great candidate for a denture. The prosthetic is supported by a strong adhesive and suction that hold the prosthetic in place. Patients who are missing most but not all of their teeth may be candidates for a partial denture.

Learn More about Dentures

Implant-Supported Restorations

Prosthetics can also be supported by one or more implants. For example, if you are seeking a solution for a single missing tooth, the titanium post can support a custom dental crown. Implants promote jawbone strength and prevent bone atrophy. Many of our patients are seeking this unique and stable replacement for a lost tooth. No matter which option you choose, you’ll have the vast experience of our dental team to guide you through the process.

Learn More about Implants