Today’s dentistry practices focus on saving your teeth, if at all possible. Dentists consider tooth extraction a last resort in most cases, but sometimes your dentist in New Orleans has run out of options and may tell you that your tooth needs to be removed. If that’s the case, the dental team at Downtown Dental will ensure you are relaxed and comfortable during this simple procedure.
What Are the Reasons for Tooth Extraction?
There are a variety of reasons why you may require a tooth extraction, including:
- Tooth decay that is too advanced for a filling or crown
- Tooth trauma that cannot be repaired
- Tooth crowding that is affecting your other teeth
- Wisdom teeth not emerging
What Are the Side Effects of Tooth Extraction?
After your tooth extraction procedure, you may experience some minor side effects. This is perfectly normal. These side effects may include
- Bleeding — It is essential that your blood clots after a tooth extraction, so we will ask you to keep gauze pads in your mouth to stop the bleeding.
- Swelling — Your face may swell a bit for a day or so after your tooth extraction; you can use ice packs to help with the swelling.
- Slight pain or discomfort — You may feel discomfort after your procedure, but over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen should help. If your pain worsens, please get in touch with our office.
- Tenderness — Your mouth will be tender after a tooth extraction, so try to eat soft foods for the first day or so.
- Discoloration — You may experience slight bruising from your tooth extraction, but it isn’t anything to be concerned with; it is typical for some patients.
What Are the Possible Complications of a Tooth Extraction?
It’s imperative to see a competent dentist for your tooth extraction in New Orleans, LA. We want you to recover quickly and avoid any potential issues. Rest assured that nearly all tooth extractions are done safely and competently. The complications of tooth extraction are as follows:
- Bleeding — If your bleeding doesn’t stop with pressure and gauze, you may require stitches in the extraction site.
- Infection — Your swelling and pain may sometimes continue 48 hours after the extraction. If this happens, you may have an infection and require antibiotics.
- Dry socket — If the bone below the extraction site is exposed, you will likely feel pain and require further treatment.
- Nerve injury — Very rarely, a patient may sustain damage to a nerve under the extraction site.
Do You Need a Tooth Extraction in New Orleans, LA?
If you need a dentist in New Orleans, Downtown Dental is ready to take your call. Our team can answer any questions and make an appointment for you. Call us at (504) 528-7800.