Tooth Extractions – Bergenfield, NJ
We Make Tooth Removal Safe, Comfortable & Simple
We understand – no one wants to have a tooth pulled. Dr. Tong and Dr. LaCap certainly don’t want that for their patients either! That’s why they go out of their way to help you maintain strong and healthy teeth for life, providing dedicated preventive care, quality restorative solutions, same-day emergency care, and much more. Unfortunately, the removal of natural dental structure sometimes becomes an inevitability despite our best efforts. Rest assured, though, that we make tooth extractions in Bergenfield as smooth and stress-free as they can be. Contact Washington Dental Associates today to learn more, or to schedule an appointment.
Why Choose Washington Dental Associates for Tooth Extractions?
- Calming Sedation Dentistry Available
- Experienced & Dedicated Dentists
- Welcoming, Family-Friendly Atmosphere
Reasons Why Tooth Extractions Are Necessary
Our doctors will typically only recommend extraction when faced with the following circumstances:
- A tooth has suffered a traumatic injury and cannot be properly restored.
- A tooth is severely decayed and cannot be repaired with a filling, crown, or root canal therapy.
- One or more teeth need to be removed to make room for important orthodontic treatment or a custom denture.
- A primary (“baby”) tooth is obstructing the eruption of an adult tooth.
- A tooth is impacted (typically a wisdom tooth or “third molar”) and must be extracted to prevent damage to nearby, healthy teeth
While tooth removal is not the first option when discussing treatment, it can be the most effective way to prevent worsening oral health conditions down the road.
The Process of Removing a Tooth
Depending on the current state of your tooth, your dentist in Bergenfield will recommend one of two types of procedures to remove it: a simple or surgical extraction. Dental forceps and what is known as an elevator are the two most common instruments a dentist will use during the removal process.
If the tooth is above the gum line and either fully or partially erupted, we will elevate the tooth out of the socket for easier removal before using the dental forceps to grasp the tooth and gently move it back and forth. This will eventually free it from any connective tissues, allowing the dentist to begin treating the soft oral tissue and socket.
If a tooth must be removed surgically, the dentist will make a small incision in the gums before carefully removing the tooth in sections and clearing out any remaining debris left behind. No matter which type of procedure you require, you can trust that Dr. LaCap or Dr. Tong will thoroughly explain the extraction process and how they plan to keep you comfortable throughout your visit.
Tooth Extraction Aftercare
After your tooth is removed and you return home to start the healing process, there are a few things you’ll need to keep in mind to ensure a successful recovery, such as:
- Taking the prescribed medications as instructed to minimize discomfort before the anesthesia wears off
- Rinsing your mouth with salt water after the first 24 hours, as this will help to clean the extraction site
- Avoiding tobacco products and smoking
- Avoiding the use of a straw to sip beverages, as this can dislodge the blood clot and cause a dry socket to form, which is painful
- Propping your head up with pillows while asleep
- Getting plenty of rest in the days following your extraction
- Brushing and flossing your teeth to minimize your chances of infection but being mindful around your extraction site
Once you are fully healed from your tooth extraction, you’ll need to talk to your dentist about replacement options. Having a dental implant replace your missing tooth will improve your oral health in the long run and prevent healthy teeth from trying to shift out of alignment, which can require orthodontic treatment in the future. Not to mention, this type of prosthetic will continue to stimulate your jawbone, allowing for a stronger facial structure as you grow older.
Tooth Extraction FAQs
Are you concerned about your upcoming tooth extractions in Bergenfield? It’s normal to feel a bit uncertain when first learning you need to have multiple teeth removed. Fortunately, our team at Washington Dental Associates is here to not only ensure your comfort and safety but also provide the transparent insight you need to feel confident about your upcoming procedure. Over the years, we’ve compiled some common questions asked by our patients that we want to share with you. With the answers provided, we invite you to review the following information and contact us with any additional questions.
Does Getting a Tooth Extracted Hurt?
No, the process of removing an extracted tooth should not cause you any pain. Before the procedure begins, we will administer local anesthesia to ensure your mouth is fully numb. This will keep you from feeling any pain or discomfort during the surgery. However, once you’re home and the anesthesia begins to wear off, you may feel some soreness. This can be remedied, however, by taking an over-the-counter pain reliever or any pain medication provided to you by our team.
What Are My Options for Replacing a Missing Tooth?
You’ll be pleased to learn that traditional dentures are not the only viable solution anymore for replacing missing teeth. Instead, you have the option of choosing between traditional dentures, a dental bridge, or dental implants. The decision is based on the status of your oral and overall health, the density of your jawbone, your personal preference, and your budget. But you need not worry that you won’t find a solution that’s right for you. Our team will work diligently to help you identify which tooth replacement solution is right for your individual needs.
How Should I Prepare for My Tooth Extraction?
Before you can move forward with your tooth extraction, you can expect your dentist in Bergenfield to inquire about your medical history. You’ll also need to divulge any medications you’re currently taking, as this provides necessary information as to whether you will require a certain type of sedation or anesthesia.
You will also be provided a list of what to do and what not to do before your extraction, such as which foods to eat and avoid, when to stop eating, and when you should cease taking any medications before your procedure.
Is There an Alternative to a Tooth Extraction?
In most cases, if your dentist is recommending tooth extraction, it is likely because no other solution is capable of fixing the problem. While some dentists are more eager to perform tooth removals because of the additional money received, most professionals will do everything possible to help you keep your natural teeth as long as possible. If a root canal, however, is simply not enough to save your smile, the removal of one or more teeth may be the only way to better protect your oral health from serious issues down the road.
If you’re recommended for tooth extraction, trust that we have your best interest in mind and will go above and beyond to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure.
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