Tooth Extraction in Arlington

empty dental chair The typical reason for extracting teeth is that they are not where they’re supposed to be. There is often insufficient room in the mouth for the teeth to come all the way through, resulting in a tooth that may be half in and half out of the gums.

It’s quite common for patients to have wisdom teeth removed, and Joseph Reed, DMD, MAGD has three decades of experience providing this service in a painless, anxiety-free manner.

If you’re in need of an extraction, we’re here to help and make the process as stress-free and painless as possible. We look forward to helping you restore your smile!

NEW PATIENTS

Types of Teeth Extractions

There are two main reasons you may need an extraction at Arlington Dental.

Surgical extraction is a dental procedure designed to remove a tooth while preserving as much of the surrounding bone as possible. This technique involves separating the tooth’s root from the surrounding bone. One common extraction we perform is wisdom teeth removal, where the impacted or misaligned wisdom teeth are carefully extracted to prevent damage to the jaw and nearby teeth, ensuring the area is optimal for healing and potential future dental interventions.

The all-on-four implant technique represents a more advanced form of dental restoration and extraction. This method involves placing four dental implants in the jaw—two at the back of the jaw are angled forward, and two at the front are tipped backward. These implants are then interconnected with a dental bridge. This configuration leverages the natural support of the jawbone, providing exceptional stability and allowing for immediate loading of the dental prosthesis. Patients benefit from the ability to eat and function normally almost immediately after the procedure.

Preparing for Your Appointment

Preparing for a tooth extraction involves several key steps to ensure a smooth procedure and recovery. First, it’s important to follow all pre-operative instructions provided by Arlington Dental, which may include fasting from food and drink before the appointment. If we prescribe any antibiotics or medications to be taken prior to the procedure, make sure to follow these directions carefully.

Since sedation might be used, arranging for someone to drive you home is crucial, as you won’t be in a condition to drive yourself. At home, it’s wise to stock up on soft foods which will be easier to eat as your extraction site heals. Finally, plan to rest for the remainder of the day following your extraction and take any prescribed pain medications to manage postoperative discomfort effectively.

What You Should Expect

You’ll be numb throughout the process, and if you wish to be sedated, we offer a variety of options. Dr. Reed is certified to provide both oral and IV sedation. Using the appropriate tools, he will remove the tooth. He will use a special collagen sponge that includes antibiotics and a clotting agent, and then stitch the socket closed. This ensures that the likelihood of infection is incredibly small—in 30 years, Dr. Reed has never had a wisdom tooth extraction become infected.
After your procedure, you’ll keep the gauze on the socket for 4 hours, then remove it. It’s important to eat and stay hydrated while your body heals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why might I need a tooth extraction?

Tooth extractions are commonly performed for reasons such as severe tooth decay, advanced gum disease, impacted wisdom teeth, overcrowding, or to prepare for orthodontic treatment.

Does tooth extraction hurt?

When it comes to tooth extraction, ensuring your comfort is our top priority. With the effective application of local anesthesia, you shouldn’t experience any sharp pain during the procedure—only mild sensations of pressure and vibration. If you do feel any discomfort or sharp pain, it could indicate that the anesthesia hasn’t fully numbed the area, which we can promptly address. Our aim is to make the extraction process as painless as possible by carefully numbing the site to ensure your utmost comfort throughout the procedure.

How long does a tooth extraction take?

The duration varies based on factors like the tooth’s location and complexity. Simple extractions can take a few minutes, while more complex cases may require a longer procedure.

What can I expect during the tooth extraction process?

Our team will administer anesthesia, then use specialized tools to loosen and remove the tooth. In some cases, stitches may be necessary. Post-extraction, you’ll receive instructions on caring for the site.

What are the possible complications of a tooth extraction?

While complications are rare, they can include infection, excessive bleeding, or damage to surrounding teeth or tissues. Following post-operative care instructions helps minimize risks.

How long does it take to recover from a tooth extraction?

Recovery time varies but typically takes a few days to a couple of weeks. Adhering to post-operative care instructions, such as avoiding certain foods and activities, promotes faster healing.

Get Started Today