Wed: 8AM-2PM Thur: 8AM-5PM
Fri: 8AM-2PM740-852-5771Call Today!116 E High StLondon, OH 43140SCHEDULE NOW
OUR SERVICES
Tooth Extractions
Good oral hygiene should always be practiced because the loss of a single tooth can have major impact upon your oral health and appearance. Although dentists will use every measure to prevent tooth loss, there are still occasions when a tooth may need to be extracted. A tooth may need to be extracted for the following reasons:
- Severe decay
- Advanced periodontal disease
- Infection or abscess
- Orthodontic correction
- Malposition teeth
- Fractured teeth or roots
- Impacted teeth
After careful examination and treatment, the dentist may advise to have a tooth extracted. Before a tooth is removed, the dentist will take an x-ray in order to understand the shape and position of the tooth and surrounding bone. Based on the degree of difficulty, we may refer you to a specialized oral surgeon.
For a simple extraction, we will first apply a local anesthetic to prevent pain and discomfort. The tooth will be loosened with a tool called an elevator and then removed with dental forceps. Once the procedure is complete, the area may be closed with one or two stitches. We will then provide you with care instructions to alleviate discomfort and ensure proper healing.
WISDOM TOOTH EXTRACTIONS
Wisdom teeth are the last molars or “third molars” that develop on each side of the jaws. Wisdom teeth usually emerge in the back of the mouth between the ages of 16-20.
Wisdom teeth are a valuable asset to the mouth when they are healthy and properly positioned. Often, however, problems develop that require their removal. When the jaw isn’t large enough to accommodate wisdom teeth, they can become impacted (unable to come in or misaligned). Wisdom teeth may also grow in sideways, emerge only part way through the gum or remain trapped beneath the gum and bone.
A wisdom tooth extraction is a relatively routine procedure. The dentist will numb the area in your mouth with a local anesthesia. Oral medication may also be given to help relax you since we do not use IV sedation.
After the tooth is removed, we will provide care instructions to ensure proper healing. Some pain and swelling may occur but will normally subside after a few days. You should call your dentist if you have prolonged or severe pain, swelling, bleeding or fever.
To learn more about tooth extractions or to schedule an appointment, call London Dental today at 740-852-5771.
Tooth Extraction FAQs
Sometimes removing a tooth is the best step toward protecting your long-term oral health. While extractions are a common dental procedure, many patients still have questions about what to expect before and after treatment. Below are answers to some of the most common questions we hear from patients considering or preparing for a tooth extraction.
- Why might I need a tooth extraction?
A tooth may need to be removed when it cannot be restored or when keeping it could harm surrounding teeth. Severe decay, advanced gum disease, significant fractures, or overcrowding are some of the reasons extractions may be recommended. In other cases, removing a problematic tooth can help prevent infection from spreading or prepare your smile for orthodontic or restorative treatment.
- What happens during a tooth extraction?
During the procedure, the area around the tooth is carefully numbed to keep you comfortable. Once the tooth and surrounding tissues are fully anesthetized, your dentist gently loosens the tooth and removes it from the socket. In some situations, the tooth may need to be removed in sections to protect the surrounding bone and tissue.
- How long does it take to recover after having a tooth pulled?
Most patients begin feeling better within a few days, although the initial healing period typically lasts about one to two weeks. The soft tissue closes over the area during this time, while deeper bone healing can continue for several weeks. Following your post-procedure instructions helps support smooth healing.
- What is a dry socket?
A dry socket occurs when the protective blood clot that forms at the extraction site dislodges or dissolves prematurely. Without that clot, the underlying bone and nerves are exposed, which can cause significant discomfort. Avoiding smoking, drinking through straws, or vigorous rinsing after surgery can help reduce the risk.
- What are the risks of not removing a damaged tooth?
Leaving a severely damaged or infected tooth untreated can lead to worsening pain, spreading infection, and damage to neighboring teeth or bone. In some cases, untreated infection may even affect overall health. Removing the tooth allows the area to heal and creates an opportunity to restore the space with a long-term replacement option if needed.
- Do I need a follow-up appointment after my extraction?
Not every extraction requires a follow-up visit, but your dentist may recommend one to check healing and ensure the area is progressing normally. Follow-up care is especially helpful if stitches were placed or if additional treatment is planned.
- Can I do anything to speed up the healing process?
Yes. Resting, avoiding strenuous activity for the first day, and following all aftercare instructions can support faster healing. Eating soft foods, staying hydrated, and keeping the area clean with gentle rinses after the first 24 hours also helps your mouth recover comfortably.
If you have questions about a tooth that may need to be removed, the team at London Dental Care is here to help. Call London Dental Care today to schedule your appointment and learn more about your treatment options.
