Tooth Extraction Dentist Forest Hills

Getting your teeth fixed sometimes means that you will need to see a tooth extraction dentist Forest Hills. A regular dentist can pull some teeth, but there are occasions when someone with a little more expertise may be needed. Here are some of those occasions.

The Reasons for Extractions

While your adult teeth are designed to last your lifetime, there are some reasons why a tooth may have problems and need to be extracted. If a tooth becomes damaged or decayed, it will need to be removed if it cannot be repaired.

Another common cause of extractions is gum disease. Diseases of the gums can cause them to recede, which means the tooth can become loose. A dentist will often try and save the tooth, but it is not always possible.

One more cause is if you decide to get braces, or another kind of tooth alignment system, a tooth that is too far out of line may need to be removed. The orthodontist will try and save as many teeth as possible, but sometimes a better alignment can occur without a particular tooth.

A Dentist May Recommend Seeing a Tooth Extraction Dentist Forest Hills

When going to your regular dentist, he or she will likely tell you when there is a particular problem with your teeth and recommend that you see a specialist. An extraction dentist has had extra training so that he or she becomes specialized in tooth extractions.

In almost every case, except for dental emergencies, it is your regular dentist that will recommend you to see a specialist. They likely already have x-rays of your teeth and jaw bones, and know when special treatments are necessary.

The Extraction Process

A local anesthetic may be all that is needed to prevent pain during the process. This may involve a couple of injections in the area to numb the pain. If it is going to be more serious, you are likely to be put to sleep.

Once the medication has taken effect, the dentist may cut the gums and possibly bone away from the tooth. Then, he or she will grasp the tooth with an instrument like pliers and wiggle it back and forth to work it loose. In more difficult cases, the tooth will have to be split into pieces and then removed.

After the tooth (or teeth) has been removed, the dentist may put some sutures in place to prevent excessive bleeding. A cotton gauze pad will also be put on it. When you are awake, you will be asked to keep some pressure on it to help a clot to form where the extraction took place. This will only need to be done for a few hours. The gauze pads will need to be replaced every couple of hours.

What to Do After an Extraction

The oral surgeon will likely prescribe some painkillers. You will also be encouraged to use ice packs at home if there is any swelling of your jaw.

A tooth extraction dentist Forest Hills can remove teeth that are causing problems and that are more difficult to extract than a regular dentist. They are professionals and can ensure it is done right, which can help prepare your mouth better for replacement teeth.

Tooth Extraction Dentist Forest Hills

118-16 Queens Blvd
Forest Hills, NY 11375
718-674-6478