Tooth Extractions – Oklahoma City, OK
Safe & Gentle Tooth Extractions
Dr. Hermen has decades of experience saving even the most damaged teeth. However, sometimes, a tooth may simply be beyond repair, making tooth extraction necessary. We know that this makes many patients nervous, which is why we offer services like sedation dentistry and answer all your questions before your procedure begins. Dr. Hermen is dedicated to quality care and patient comfort, so you know you’re in good hands as soon as you walk into the office!
Why Choose Jeffrey F. Hermen, DDS For Tooth Extractions?
- Same-Day Emergency Dental Appointments Available
- Quality Dental Care For Children And Adults
- Sedation Dentistry Available For More Relaxed Procedures
Reasons Why Tooth Extractions Are Necessary
Dr. Hermen doesn’t recommend tooth extraction unless it’s vital for your oral health. He may choose to remove a tooth because:
- Extensive decay is beginning to threaten the surrounding teeth.
- Periodontal disease has weakened the bone needed to support a tooth.
- Physical trauma has damaged the enamel so much that it can’t be put back together.
- It’s about to crack, exposing it to bacteria.
- More room is needed in the mouth for a new restoration.
- It will make it easier for the teeth to shift during Invisalign treatment.
- It is blocking another tooth from coming in correctly.
The Process of Removing a Tooth
The process of tooth extraction isn’t overly complex, but knowing what to expect can help you relieve some anxiety. Dr. Hermen will begin by examining the area and taking X-rays to ensure there are no hidden complications. During this time, there will also be a discussion of replacement options to ensure your oral health remains intact after the extraction procedure.
Next, he’ll administer local anesthesia to numb the area. For a simple extraction where the tooth is clearly visible, an elevator is used to loosen and lift it. Then, Dr. Hermen will use forceps to grasp the crown and gently rock it back and forth, until it comes out smoothly.
For more complex cases, other tools may be needed to break the tooth into pieces before it can be taken out. The most complicated teeth to extract are impacted which means they’re stuck below the gums. These may require surgery to remove properly.
Tooth Extraction Aftercare
Once your extraction treatment is complete, you’ll be given guidelines to follow for your recovery. It’s important to adhere to these directions carefully to prevent complications like dry socket, which can be very painful. Here are some of the standard instructions for extraction aftercare:
- Take pain medication as prescribed, including generics like ibuprofen and acetaminophen.
- Avoid smoking, vaping, or drinking as these can dry out or inflame the gums and cause issues.
- Do not drink through straws or spit. Doing so may dislodge the blood clot over the extraction site.
- Avoid strenuous exercise, opting for lighter variants instead.
- Get plenty of rest to facilitate the healing process.
- Elevate your head when sleeping to ease pain and prevent blood from pooling.
- Gently rinse with warm salt water each day to reduce inflammation, discourage bacterial growth, and relieve discomfort. Be sure to let the water fall out of your mouth instead of spitting.