Typically, when a tooth has broken or been damaged from decay, our dentists will use a dental filling, crown, or other restoration to repair the tooth. However, when the damage to the tooth is extensive, they will need to extract it. This can happen if the tooth has been loosened because of periodontal disease or severe oral trauma.
During a simple tooth extraction, our dentist will gently loosen the tooth using a dental tool called an elevator. Once the tooth is loosened, it can be removed by dental forceps. These kinds of extractions are normally done using a local anesthetic.
During your tooth extraction, you may feel pressure but no pain. Our dental team works to make your extraction as comfortable as possible. After having a tooth extracted, you may use ice packs for any swelling you may incur, and stay with a soft foods diet for a few days. Rinsing gently with warm salt water will help to keep the area clean.
A surgical extraction such as those used for impacted wisdom teeth requires making incisions into the gums to be able to remove the tooth. This type of extraction generally requires a local anesthetic, or anesthesia.
Our dentists perform simple extractions for our patients in Ellensburg, Washington. If you are having any issues with your smile, or simply need to have a checkup and cleaning, please give us a call at 509-933-4800. At Creekside Dental Ellensburg, Dr. Forrest Packard and Dr. Kevin Packard are here to help you with all of your oral care needs!