Tooth Extractions – Bergenfield, NJ

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.