When is Tooth Extraction Necessary? Here’s What You Need to Know About Dental Extractions

Hearing that you need a tooth extraction may not be the news you hoped for. However, Cotton Creek Dental ensures the process is as smooth and comfortable as possible. Drs. David Brown and Jacob Jennings provide advanced tooth extractions in Washington, Utah, only recommending removal when saving the tooth is no longer an option. Whether you need emergency or wisdom tooth removal, you can trust our team for exceptional care during and after extraction.

Why does the dentist want to remove my tooth?

While we try everything possible to preserve your natural teeth, dental extractions are sometimes necessary. Removing your tooth is a big decision, and we’ll only recommend it in the following scenarios.

  • A significantly decayed or damaged tooth beyond saving
  • A troublesome or impacted wisdom tooth
  • A tooth may need removal to resolve overcrowding or create space for orthodontic treatment
  • Advanced gum disease
  • An over-retained baby tooth

Removing a tooth is necessary if leaving it intact causes more harm than good. Failure to remove a tooth that’s due for extraction can cause widespread infection, unnecessary pain, and further health complications.

What can I expect from tooth extraction?

Before removing your tooth, we’ll examine it with digital X-rays to determine its location and extent of damage. Dental extraction can be simple or surgical.

  • Simple extraction: If the tooth is visible and accessible in the mouth, you’ll need a simple extraction. For this procedure, the dentist will anesthetize your gums and wiggle your tooth in a back-and-forward motion before pulling it out in one piece. Our dental extractions are gentle for maximum socket preservation.
  • Surgical extraction: These extractions are somewhat different and recommended for impacted (ingrown) teeth or those broken at the gum line. They involve breaking the tooth into several pieces to minimize damage to the surrounding tissues. Then, we clean and suture the surgical site to kick-start healing.

Unless a tooth is overcrowded or impacted, we generally recommend replacing an extracted tooth to maintain your oral health. Leaving a gap can affect your ability to chew and speak properly. Over time, tooth loss may also lead to bone deterioration, bite misalignment, and increased strain on your remaining teeth.

For a durable, long-term solution, we recommend a dental implant. However, bridges and partial dentures are also effective, budget-friendly alternatives. We’d be happy to discuss the best option for your needs!

What should I expect after tooth extraction?

Proper aftercare after a tooth extraction is crucial to prevent infections, a dry socket, and other complications while ensuring a quick, comfortable recovery. Follow these guidelines for the best healing experience:

  • Control bleeding: After your procedure, bite down gently on a gauze pad for 30–45 minutes, or longer if needed, to help a clot form. To protect the clot and promote healing, avoid spitting, rinsing, or using a straw for the first 24 hours. Be sure to rest and take it easy for 24–48 hours to reduce the risk of excessive bleeding.
  • Manage swelling and pain: Apply an ice pack intermittently for the first 24 hours to reduce swelling. Take prescribed over-the-counter pain relievers as directed by your dentist.
  • Nutrition: For the first few days, stick to soft foods like mashed potatoes, yogurt, applesauce, and smoothies to support healing. Avoid crunchy, spicy, hot, or acidic foods that could irritate the extraction site. It’s also essential to avoid alcohol and smoking until fully healed to prevent complications like dry sockets.
  • Oral hygiene: Do not rinse your mouth for the first 24 hours. After that, rinse gently with warm salt water (not mouthwash) to keep the area clean. Brush and floss carefully, avoiding the extraction site for the first few days.

Ready for painless extractions?

No one likes tooth extractions, but they are sometimes essential for maintaining optimal oral health. If you need tooth extraction services in Washington, UT, call (435) 673-4605 and schedule an appointment with Cotton Creek Dental.