Tooth extraction may sound intimidating, but it is a common dental procedure performed by experienced dentists like Dr. Seema Ahmed and Dr. Mohammad Barra at Old Town Smiles in Alexandria. Tooth extractions are often necessary to maintain oral health and prevent complications from issues such as severe tooth decay, infection, crowding, or damage from trauma. The procedure involves the removal of a tooth from its socket in the bone. It can be performed under local anesthesia, oral or IV (twilight) sedation, or general anesthesia, ensuring patient comfort throughout the process. Our team at Old Town Smiles is committed to providing a gentle, safe, and effective tooth extraction experience.
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Why Might I Need a Tooth Extraction?
Tooth extractions are often the last resort when other dental treatments can't save a tooth. They are necessary to prevent the spread of infection or damage to other teeth. If a tooth is severely decayed or damaged, an extraction can alleviate pain and discomfort. In cases of overcrowding, a tooth extraction is performed to create space for proper alignment during orthodontic treatment. Furthermore, impacted teeth - those that have failed to erupt through the gums properly, such as wisdom teeth, may need to be extracted to prevent complications. At Old Town Smiles, we ensure that tooth extractions are done professionally, prioritizing your comfort and oral health.
Did you know…
Tooth enamel is the hardest substance in the human body!
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The Benefits Of Tooth Extractions
Pain Relief
Tooth decay or damage can cause severe discomfort, making everyday activities like eating and speaking difficult. Tooth extraction provides immediate relief from this pain. At Old Town Smiles, we ensure that the extraction process is as painless as possible, helping you return to your normal activities swiftly and comfortably.
Prevents Further Damage
Tooth infections can spread to other teeth and the jawbone, leading to more serious dental issues. By removing the affected tooth, we halt the progression of the disease, protecting your overall oral health. Our skilled dentists at Old Town Smiles prioritize your long-term dental health, ensuring that tooth extractions are performed meticulously and effectively.
Improves Orthodontic Treatment
In cases of dental overcrowding, tooth extraction is often necessary for successful orthodontic treatment. By creating more room in the mouth, teeth can be properly aligned, leading to a healthier and more attractive smile. At Old Town Smiles, we work closely with you to create a treatment plan that suits your individual needs and goals.
The Tooth Extraction Treatment Process
Examination and X-Ray
Before a tooth extraction, our dentists conduct a thorough examination of your oral health. This involves an X-ray of the tooth to understand its position and condition. The X-ray helps us plan the best approach for extraction, ensuring a smooth and successful procedure.
Anesthesia
To ensure your comfort during the extraction, we administer local anesthesia to numb the area around the tooth, allowing for a painless extraction. Depending on the complexity of the procedure and your personal comfort level, we also offer oral or IV (twilight) sedation, or general anesthesia, which is performed by a board-certified medical anesthesiologist who comes to our office just for you, with hospital grade equipment and safety protocols.
Extraction
Once the area is numb, the dentist will gently loosen the tooth using a tool called an elevator. Then, they'll use forceps to remove the tooth. At Old Town Smiles, we ensure that this process is as comfortable and stress-free as possible, providing the highest level of care and expertise.
Before & Afters
A smile is worth 1,000 words.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens after the extraction?
If you are planning to replace the missing tooth, your options will be discussed with you beforehand. At Old Town Smiles, our skilled dentists can offer several options to fill in the missing tooth to help you chew and smile more confidently. If you are interested in replacing the missing tooth with a dental implant, at the time you get your tooth extraction, the site will be prepared for a future implant with special bone grafting material as well.
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