Tooth Extractions–Houston, TX

Hassle-Free Tooth Extractions

Dentists strive to preserve every natural tooth because they are essential for a healthy, functional smile. However, extraction is best in certain situations. If you need to have a tooth removed, Dr. Roman has the experience and qualifications you can trust. He’ll provide the personalized care you need while keeping your comfort as his top priority.

Reasons Why Tooth Extractions Are Necessary

Tooth extractions are only recommended when there are no other viable treatment options. It is not a decision Dr. Roman takes lightly, but he may recommend removing a tooth for certain situations, like:

• Wisdom Teeth: Many people need to have their wisdom teeth removed from partial or full impactions. Often, there’s not enough room in the mouth to accommodate a third set of molars, which can lead to many complications, like pain and infections.
• Severe Damage: Sometimes a tooth can be too badly damaged by decay, infection, or trauma. If it’s not repairable, it’s best to have it removed and replaced.
• Orthodontics: severe cases of overcrowding can be resolved by removing specific teeth to create more room in the mouth.
• Dentures: If your teeth are badly damaged or you only have a couple remaining, extracting them can be the first step to completing your smile with dentures.

The Process of Removing a Tooth

Depending on your situation, Dr. Roman will recommend either:

• Simple Extraction: A local anesthetic and sedative are used to keep you comfortable while your tooth is loosened and removed with forceps.
• Surgical Extraction: If a tooth is not fully visible above the gum tissue, it will need to be surgically extracted. Sedation will be used to block any pain as your dentist opens your gum tissue to expose the tooth. It may be broken into smaller pieces to make it easier to remove. Your gum tissue will be sutured closed to allow the area to heal.

Tooth Extraction Aftercare

Generally, simple extractions are easier to recover from because they aren’t as invasive. No matter the method used, you can ensure a quick recovery by following a few aftercare tips:

• Take It Easy: You will need to spend at least the next 24 hours resting to allow the effects of any sedatives or numbing agents to dissipate. You will also need to avoid strenuous activities for at least one week.
• Eat and Drink Carefully: Temperature check any foods or drinks until after any numbing medications wear off. Avoid anything carbonated, acidic, or spicy. It’s best to stick to soft foods for a couple of days.
• Manage Pain and Swelling: Take a prescribed or over-the-counter pain reliever to manage any discomfort. Applying a cold compress will also provide relief while reducing swelling and bruising.
• Protect the Blood Clot: If the blood clot in the extraction site is lost too soon, it can lead to a dry socket, which is very painful. You can reduce your risk by not using a straw when drinking because suction can dislodge it. Do not rinse your mouth vigorously and avoid touching the surgical site.
• Keep Your Mouth Clean: Follow Dr. Roman’s oral hygiene instructions. You can also rinse your mouth with salt water to kill bacteria and reduce inflammation, but only lightly swish it around and let it flow out into the sink.
• Avoid Tobacco and Alcohol: Smoking and alcohol can affect your body’s ability to heal and fight infections, which can complicate your recovery.

If you need a consultation for tooth extraction, request an appointment online or call (281) 559-0130.