TOOTH EXTRACTIONS AN OVERVIEW
TOOTH EXTRACTIONS AN OVERVIEWWe may recommend a tooth extraction for one or more of the following reasons:
- A dental infection
- Overcrowded or overlapping teeth
- Impacted wisdom teeth
- Tooth damage
- Tooth decay
Our Herndon, VA dentist office offers a complete menu of general dentistry services, including simple tooth extractions and wisdom teeth removal. Dr. Mark Jefferies offers experienced care in our Herndon, VA dentist office.
To determine if tooth extraction is right for you, we will evaluate your teeth, mouth, and jaw. We only recommend extraction when deemed necessary. Our team will explore all viable treatment options and recommend the best solution for you.
If you would like to learn more about tooth extractions or wisdom teeth removal, contact our dental office.
WISDOM TEETH REMOVAL IN HERNDON, VA
The wisdom teeth, or sometimes referred to as the third morals, typically develop during the later teens or early twenties. Most patients will need to have their wisdom teeth removed if they interfere with the condition of their existing teeth, cause pain, or interfere with your ability to chew comfortably. We may recommend removing your wisdom teeth for one or more of the following reasons:
- You have impacted wisdom teeth
- Your wisdom teeth are causing pain or discomfort
- Your wisdom teeth are affecting the position or health of neighboring teeth
Impacted wisdom teeth are one of the most common reasons for removal. Impacted wisdom teeth develop below the gum line because there is not enough room to support them. In some cases, wisdom teeth protrude past the gum line and grow into other teeth (overlapping), or push the remaining teeth (overcrowding) —all of which are reasons for removal.
If your wisdom teeth develop and don’t cause any immediate issues, we may still recommend removal. Wisdom teeth are more susceptible to cavities and are more difficult to clean than your permanent teeth. Due to the location of your wisdom teeth, it is harder to brush and floss them effectively, which may result in dental decay. Even if your wisdom teeth are filled, they are still at risk for future cavities due to their location. The best way to avoid this problem is to remove your wisdom teeth.
We make every effort to ensure you are comfortable and informed through all phases of your treatment. Most extractions are performed under the appropriate sedation or the use of a local anesthetic. We can offer a full range of sedation dentistry options to help keep you comfortable and pain-free during your procedure. If you would like to explore your options for wisdom teeth removal in Herndon, VA, contact our office.
When Should You Get Your Wisdom Teeth Removed?
There is no appropriate age to remove your wisdom teeth although it is commonly recommended in late teens and young adults. However, most dentists recommend removing wisdom teeth at a younger age because it can promote faster healing. If you are unsure if wisdom teeth removal is right for you, please contact our dental care team.
Does Everyone Have Wisdom Teeth?
No, not everyone will develop wisdom teeth. Although rare, it is completely normal for you not to develop wisdom teeth. During your appointment, we will perform the necessary x-rays and imaging to determine the location of your wisdom teeth.
TOOTH EXTRACTIONS WHAT TO EXPECT
Dr. Jefferies will evaluate the condition of your tooth or the position of the wisdom teeth using digital dental x-rays. For more complex wisdom teeth extractions we may coordinate your care with a local oral surgeon.
To ensure you are comfortable during your extraction, we will numb the tooth and surrounding area. The tooth is gently rocked back and forth to relieve it from its roots. When the tooth is loose, we will gently remove it from its socket. During this process, you may feel pressure but it will quickly pass.
To minimize bleeding after an extraction, your dentist will place a gauze pad into the socket. To avoid complications such as a dry socket, please be sure to follow your aftercare instructions.
Dr. Jefferies will discuss all aftercare instructions before your appointment. Depending on the location and type of tooth extracted, you may need a tooth replacement.
Is Tooth Extraction Painful?
Most patients experience minimal discomfort during the procedure. We offer dental sedation to ensure you are comfortable throughout your procedure. Under the care of an experienced team, your tooth extraction or wisdom tooth removal should not cause any pain or discomfort. It is important to follow your aftercare instructions to avoid any complications.
REPLACING EXTRACTED TEETH
Wisdom teeth do not need to be replaced. However, if you have a permanent tooth extracted, you are more than likely need to have it replaced. Your dentist in Herndon, VA offers a range of tooth replacement options to address missing teeth in Fairfax County. Dr. Jefferies can work with you to determine if a dental implant, denture, or dental bridge is right for you. Contact us today!