At A2Z Dental Group in Northridge, CA, we understand that sometimes the best way to relieve pain caused by severe damage or decay is to remove a tooth.
Some people are worried about having a tooth removed, but extractions are very common procedures, and our A2Z dentists in Northridge have years of experience delivering the best care to our patients.
Read on to learn more about our tooth extraction treatments, including how an extraction can benefit your oral health, what to expect from your tooth removal treatment, and why you should choose A2Z Dental Group in Northridge.
What is Tooth Extraction?
Tooth extractions, also known as dental extractions, are the process of removing a tooth from its socket in the jaw bone. They may be necessary if a tooth is damaged beyond repair due to decay, trauma, or infection. Dental extractions are sometimes performed to address overcrowding or prepare for orthodontic treatment.
Extractions are typically performed by either a dentist or an oral surgeon. Dentists, like those at A2Z, often handle straightforward extractions, while more complex cases, like wisdom teeth, may be referred to an oral surgeon with specialized training in oral and maxillofacial surgery.
Why Have a Tooth Removed?
There are many reasons why your dentist may recommend you to have a tooth removed. Some of those reasons may be:
- To provide relief from pain caused by dental fractures or infections in a tooth.
- To stop further complications from damaged or decaying teeth.
- To reduce the harmful bacteria that can cause damage to surrounding teeth, the jaw bone, and your gums.
- To improve your overall oral health.
Northridge Tooth Extraction at A2Z Dental Group
Here is what to expect from your dental extraction at A2Z Dental Group:
Step 1: Consultation
You will have an initial appointment with one of our dentists at A2Z Dental Group. This will be an opportunity for them to evaluate your oral health and to examine your teeth and gums.
During this consultation, your dentist will take dental X-rays to assess the extent of the damage to the tooth or teeth that need extracting.
A consultation is a good opportunity for you to ask your dentist any questions or concerns you may have about your treatment. You should also inform them of any medical conditions or medications you take.
Step 2: Extraction Procedure
Your A2Z dentist will start by administering any sedation you discussed during your consultation. They will then begin to numb the area around the tooth to be extracted with a local anesthetic.
Your dentist will then remove the tooth from the socket using special dental tools. If the tooth is particularly decayed or badly damaged, some incisions may be necessary.
Next, your A2Z dentist will clean and disinfect the area. If needed, they will also place a dental bone graft to prevent bone loss in the jaw and stitch up the wound where necessary.
Step 3: Aftercare
When your dentist is finished extracting the tooth and cleaning the wound, they will place some dental gauze over the extraction site. You will be instructed to bite down on the gauze briefly to help slow the bleeding and begin the clotting process.
You can expect light bleeding for the first 24 hours following your treatment. Your dentist will also provide specific aftercare instructions for you at home.
Sedation Options at A2Z in Northridge
We offer a range of sedation options at A2Z Dental Group so your dental extraction can be as comfortable as possible:
Nitrous Oxide
Nitrous oxide, or “laughing gas,” is the lightest sedation option we offer at A2Z. It is administered through a breathing mask.
If you choose this sedation option, you can drive yourself home after your appointment.
Oral Conscious Sedation
Oral conscious sedation can be combined with nitrous oxide for a stronger sedative effect. This sedation option is administered through a pill that you swallow 1 hour before your treatment.
If you choose this option, you will need to arrange for someone to drive you home after your appointment.
Intravenous (IV) Sedation
IV sedation for patients with dental anxiety or those who are undergoing more intensive procedures. This is the strongest sedation option we have available at A2Z Dental Group.
As IV sedation provides a high level of sedation, you will need someone to drive you home after your appointment.
Sometimes, general anesthesia may be recommended for more complex dental procedures and surgeries, which are usually carried out in a hospital setting.
Tooth Extraction Aftercare
Your A2Z dentist will provide aftercare instructions once the extraction is completed to ensure a quick recovery:
Clean the Treatment Area: Rinse the area with an antimicrobial mouthwash or salt water 2-3 times daily. Be gentle to avoid dislodging any blood clotting formed during healing.
Pain Relief and Antibiotics: Your A2Z dentist will advise you on suitable pain relief and antibiotics, if necessary.
Be Sure to Rest: Avoid strenuous activities for at least 72 hours to prevent bleeding and discomfort.
Recovery Time: Recovery time varies based on the extraction’s difficulty and the tooth removed. Generally, you can expect to feel better in a couple of days, however, complete healing of the jaw bone may take several weeks, especially if an implant replaces the extracted tooth.
Book Your Northridge Tooth Extraction
At A2Z Dental Group in Northridge, we always strive to make the tooth extraction process as comfortable as possible. Our expert dentists have years of experience and are committed to ensuring your tooth removal goes smoothly.
With sedation options available for your comfort, even the most wary patients can enjoy a pain-free smile after their extraction is completed.
Stop tooth pain for good and book your tooth extraction today.
