Getting a Tooth Extraction? What to Know

Getting a tooth extraction can sound like a scary experience, but for many patients, it’s relatively painless and quick. As yourdentist in Owensboro and Beaver Dam, KY, the dental professionals at Dr. Travis Wilson Family Dentistry prioritize good patient care to help ensure a smooth experience during a tooth extraction.

Two Types of Tooth Extractions

There are multiple ways to extract a tooth: simple and surgical. To determine the right path forward for you, we’ll perform an exam and get digital X-rays.

Simple Extractions

Many patients are able to get a simple surgical extraction. During the simple extraction, we’ll numb the area, so you can’t feel anything that’s being done to the tooth.

Next, we’ll use the dental elevator to loosen the tooth in its socket. Finally, we’ll use the forceps to remove the tooth from its place in your mouth. Once the area is numb, the procedure takes only a few minutes.

Surgical Extractions

Surgical extractions are necessary when a tooth is partially enclosed in the gum. This might happen if the tooth breaks off below the gum line or if it’s an impacted wisdom tooth.

For this procedure, we’ll give you general anesthesia or conscious sedation, so you’ll most likely need a ride home. Then, we’ll create an incision in your gums and start the extraction.

After the Procedure 

Once the tooth has been removed, we’ll have you bite down on sterile gauze to help the wound to clot. We’ll recommend over the counter pain medication and give you instructions to help the procedure be successful.

Have more questions abouttooth extractions in Owensboro and Beaver Dam, KY? Call Dr. Travis Wilson Family Dentistry today to make an appointment. It’s important for you to get ready for your procedure, so we’re here to help.