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Tooth Extractions – Scottsdale, AZ
Removing Teeth as a Last Resort
As a dentist with a holistic background, Dr. Raiffe never wants to remove patients’ teeth. Unfortunately, though, there are times when it is the only option. As a last resort, our team at Shea Dental of Scottsdale will recommend tooth extractions to avoid further harm to your overall health. We’ll also provide wisdom tooth extractions should your teenager need help to alleviate the pain forming in the back of their mouth. No matter the situation, you are encouraged to call us so that we can examine the problem area and make a recommendation that is in your best interest.
Why Choose Shea Dental of Scottsdale for Tooth Extractions?
- Wisdom Tooth Extractions Available
- High-Quality Tooth Replacement Options
- We Welcome Your Dental Insurance
Reasons Why Tooth Extractions Are Necessary
It is never the initial recommendation of our team to remove one or more teeth. We always strive to look for ways that we can save a tooth, but certain situations will not allow for other forms of treatment. This is when tooth removal must occur if more serious infections are to be avoided.
The most common reasons we might recommend tooth extraction include:
- You have a severely damaged tooth that cannot be saved with other restorative dentistry options, like dental crowns.
- You must undergo orthodontic treatment but have too many teeth in your mouth. For results to be successful, one or more teeth must be removed.
- Your remaining teeth are showing signs of severe decay, and you’re already discussing the option of how to best replace your missing teeth with dentures.
- Your teenager is suffering from wisdom tooth pain caused by impaction or inadequate space and needs their third molars removed.
- You are in the advanced stages of periodontitis (advanced gum disease) and signs of bone and tooth loss are occurring.
The Process of Removing a Tooth
There actually isn’t just one type of tooth extraction; there are two! The first is a simple extraction, which is used when the tooth that needs to be removed has broken through the gumline. In this case, we will numb your mouth thoroughly before gently rocking the tooth loose. When it’s ready, we’ll carefully remove it and take care of the extraction site.
The second is a surgical extraction, and it’s ideal for when the tooth is trapped underneath the gumline. Rest assured, the first step is the same: using a numbing agent to ensure you don’t feel anything in the treatment chair. Once you’re ready to begin, we will create a small incision in your gums so they can assess the tooth before carefully removing it.
Tooth Extraction Aftercare
Following your procedure, there are a few things you need to do in order to heal properly and comfortably. That includes:
- Not spitting, drinking through a straw, or smoking
- Taking OTC pain medication as directed on the label
- Getting plenty of rest
- Using a cold compress in 10-minute intervals
- Keeping your mouth clean
- Sticking to soft foods, like scrambled eggs and soup
If you have a question about tooth extractions or you’re ready to schedule your emergency dental appointment, then the next step is simple: contact our Scottsdale dental team.
Tooth Extraction FAQs
Does getting a tooth extracted hurt?
Many patients immediately feel nervous when they hear they need a tooth extraction in Scottsdale because they’re concerned the procedure will hurt. Dr. Raiffe makes all of his patients’ comfort a top priority, which is why he will numb your mouth before removing the tooth. Our team will also provide you with aftercare tips to minimize any post-operative discomfort you may feel as your mouth is healing.
What is recovery like after a tooth extraction?
Before you leave our office, our team at Shea Dental will provide you with a detailed list of aftercare instructions so you know exactly what to do to make a speedy, complication-free recovery.
We usually recommend that our patients take the day off of work to rest. It’s also important to protect the blood clot in the socket because if it becomes dislodged, it could result in dry socket. Keep your mouth clean throughout the day as well by rinsing with room temperature salt water. However, instead of spitting the water out of your mouth, gently let it trickle into the sink so you don’t disturb the blood clot.
If at any point you have questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to call our office!
Can I leave a space in my mouth after having a tooth extracted?
In some cases, it’s perfectly appropriate to leave a space in your mouth after having a tooth extracted, like if you’re planning on receiving orthodontic treatment for crowding after your procedure. However, if you’re having a tooth removed due to dental damage, infection, or any other type of health-related reason, it’s a good idea to have it replaced following your procedure.
When gaps are left in the smile, it can leave room for other surrounding teeth to gradually shift out of place to fill the gaps. As a result, you may develop bite problems and a higher risk of dental concerns like gum disease and decay. That’s why Dr. Raiffe and our team recommend restoring your smile. You can opt to replace your extracted tooth with an implant crown, bridge, or other restorative procedure that you’re a good candidate for.
How long do I have to wait after a tooth extraction to get a denture?
This depends on your healing process. Because your gums act as the foundation of your denture and are required to support it, it’s crucial for them to be completely healed before using a permanent denture. This typically takes between six and eight weeks.
Once your gums have healed, our team will capture a digital impression of your mouth that we’ll then send to our dental laboratory so they can begin crafting your prosthetic. Once the denture creation process is complete, we can then have you come back in to try them on and make sure they’re a perfect fit!