Need More
Information?
Information?
Most of the time, our team at Sunny Dental does everything possible to avoid removing a tooth. However, it sometimes is necessary to safeguard a patient’s smile in the long run. We typically only recommend tooth extractions in Lancaster, TX if decay or injury has left the tooth damaged beyond repair. If you ever need to have a tooth extracted, you can trust us to make the extraction process as comfortable and stress-free as possible using a gentle touch combined with sedation dentistry. Do you have a problematic tooth that needs to go? Contact us to get your smile back on track!
We understand that removing teeth is a big decision and can seem a bit scary. That is why we have prepared this FAQ section to answer some of your biggest questions about tooth extractions. We hope you find the information below helpful and informative. If you still have additional questions or concerns, do not hesitate to contact our office.
At Sunny Dental, we always strive to preserve natural teeth whenever possible. If your tooth is broken or if you’re suffering from several dental pain, we won’t move straight to extraction. Instead, our dentists will carefully evaluate your mouth to see if it’s possible to save your tooth with a crown, root canal, or other treatment. If tooth removal is the only practical way to protect your oral health, we will explain why that’s the case and discuss the next steps.
Before your tooth extraction, we will provide you with specific instructions on how to prepare. However, in general, we recommend that all patients share their medical history with us before the extraction procedure. Certain medical conditions can weaken the immune system. In these cases, we usually prescribe an antibiotic to prevent any oral infections. Depending on which type of anesthesia is chosen for your procedure, we may also ask that you do not eat any food 12 hours before the operation.
During the first few days after getting a tooth removed, you may experience some mild pain and swelling. Taking pain medication as directed by your dentist and intermittently applying an icepack to your cheek can help ease any discomfort.
During the first 24 to 48 hours after surgery, stick to a liquid or soft-food diet. Applesauce, yogurt, mashed potatoes, cool soups, and scrambled eggs are all great options. In addition, avoid drinking through a straw. Doing so can dislodge the protective blood clot that will form over the extraction site.
Overall, the initial healing period usually lasts one to two weeks. However, the length of recovery varies from person to person depending on a number of factors.
In general, it’s always a good idea to replace a missing tooth after an extraction. Healthy teeth can gradually shift into a dental gap and cause bite problems and other oral health issues. It also more difficult to eat a healthy, balanced diet without a full set of teeth. Of course, having a full smile can also help boost your self-confidence and improve your appearance. At Sunny Dental, we help countless Lancaster residents rebuild their smiles with bridges, partial dentures, and long-lasting dental implants.
Like root canal therapy, most simple extractions are covered up to 80% by dental insurance. However, every insurance plan is different, so be sure to confirm your coverage with your insurance provider. If you need help understanding the details of your plan, do not hesitate to ask! Our knowledgeable staff will be happy to help you maximize your insurance benefits. We accept all PPO insurance plans and will even file the paperwork on your behalf.
