Extractions

Taking out teeth is never our first choice.

But there are situations where extracting a tooth is the most appropriate treatment. Some of the most common reasons why we might decide on extraction include:

• Your tooth has a severe infection and root canal treatment has failed.
• Your tooth is broken to the point where it cannot be repaired.
• Decay has affected the tooth in such a way that it can’t be saved.
• Your tooth is impacted and presents a risk for infection or damage to other teeth.
• Your wisdom teeth have not erupted properly and are at risk for decay or infection.
• You have lost many of your teeth and we are preparing you for dentures.
• Your teeth are tightly crowded and we are preparing you for orthodontic care.

If you need to have a tooth extracted, you might be experiencing fear or nervousness. We completely understand. At our St. Augustine dental office, we put your comfort first and we will do everything we can to make sure that your extraction experience goes as smoothly and as comfortably as possible. Sedation dentistry may be an option to help you feel more comfortable and reduce your anxiety. If you feel like sedation dentistry would be a benefit, don't hesitate to let us know so that we can discuss your options. 

Good After Care for Better Healing

For the best results as you heal, it’s important that you follow Dr. Haeussner’s after-care instructions. Taking good care of yourself and the extraction site will help make sure that the site heals promptly and reduces your risk of complications.

Before your procedure, stock your pantry and refrigerator with soft foods that will be easy to eat. Yogurt, lukewarm soups, hardboiled eggs, and protein shakes or smoothies are all good choices.

Avoid drinking from a straw while you are healing. The sucking action may dislodge the clot that is forming in the extraction site. This clot is important for healing, and disturbing it could lead to a complication known as dry socket.

If you smoke, avoid doing so following your procedure. In addition to the same issue with the sucking action, smoking also slows the healing process and may contribute to additional bleeding.

Over-the-counter anti-inflammatories are usually enough to control any discomfort, but Dr. Haeussner may prescribe a pain medication or an antibiotic. If he does, take this medication exactly as directed. Dr. Haeussner will also discuss other ways of reducing any swelling or discomfort, which may include cold packs or salt water rinses.

Call to Schedule an Evaluation

Do you have a tooth that’s causing problems? Please call Ponce de Leon Family Dentistry today to schedule an evaluation so that we can determine the most appropriate treatment option.