When tooth extractions are necessary, they are nothing to fear at your Maryville, TN, dentist’s office
Around three of every 10 Tennesseans rate their oral health as “fair” or “poor.” Just as many of our fellow neighbors also say, they avoid smiling due to the condition of their teeth and mouths. It does not have to be this way. At Proffitt Dentistry in Maryville, TN, we look forward to working with you to resolve painful, embarrassing conditions in a non-judgmental, comfortable, and prompt manner.
When tooth extractions are necessary
We pride ourselves on forming lifelong relationships with our patients. Periodic visits to our office for professional cleanings and exams prevent many conditions that ultimately lead to tooth loss; notably, tooth decay and periodontal (gum) disease. We also use precision technologies to detect problems like enamel erosion and early-stage decay proactively. Generally, the earlier we can detect and intervene with the problem, the greater the odds that we can successfully and non-traumatically resolve the issue at hand. The idea is to preserve the best tooth material: the organic tissue that developed with you.
If it’s been a while since you have seen the dentist, or if conditions such as gum disease have progressed quickly due to factors like comorbidities, we encourage you to contact us immediately. We can recommend techniques or procedures to ease pain and restore the tooth to health conservatively and promptly. If damage is irreparable with more conservative methods and the tooth cannot be “saved,” we may recommend extraction. While it sounds scary, extractions are often relatively straightforward:
- “Simple” extraction – A tooth intact above the gum line may be loosened and then lifted from its socket.
- Surgical extraction – A broken or impacted (trapped tooth) may be accessed through incisions and removed. Wisdom teeth are a typical example of surgical extractions.
Regardless of the type of extraction techniques that we must use, every effort is made to minimize discomfort. You won’t feel anything! We will discuss anesthetic and sedative options for utmost comfort before treatment. Except for wisdom teeth (a “vestigial” organ that is not necessary for health and proper function), we will want to discuss options for tooth replacement from the start. It is essential to replace missing teeth quickly to avoid devastating bone loss. Also, please do not wait for the pain to arise before you contact us. You can avoid emergency extractions with hassle-free preventive visits upfront. Contact us today at (865) 432-0804 to schedule yours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I need a dental extraction?
You only get one set of natural teeth, so taking proper care of them is best. Even so, there are instances when your beloved tooth may need to go. No one likes them, but dental extractions may be required to preserve oral health.
Our dentist may recommend dental extraction for the following:
- An irretrievably damaged or broken tooth
- Advanced gum disease
- An over-retained baby tooth
- A dysfunctional or impacted wisdom tooth
- To prepare your mouth for implants or dentures
- An overcrowded tooth
We value your natural smile as much as you do. We will only recommend extraction when it’s the best option for your oral health.
What does a dental extraction involve?
A dental extraction involves the complete removal of the tooth from its socket. After numbing your gums, the dentist gently pulls out the tooth with back-and-forth motions. We recommend surgical extraction if the tooth is impacted or severely broken. This involves making a small incision in the gums to access and remove the tooth. Whether you need a simple or surgical extraction, we observe maximum precision to ensure minimal disturbance to the surrounding tissues.
Does insurance cover dental extraction?
Most dental insurance plans cover part or all of the cost of a tooth extraction. Coverage may vary depending on whether the extraction is simple or surgical. Since insurance policies vary, verifying your benefits before treatment is best.
Will my extraction hurt?
Dental extraction may sound scary, but it’s much easier than it sounds. We combine gentle techniques with powerful anesthetics to ensure a comfortable experience. Some swelling or soreness afterward is normal but can be managed with pain medication and home care instructions.
How long does it take to recover?
The extraction part is just part of the restoration process. Aftercare helps you speed up healing and prevent complications. Most patients recover from a simple extraction in a few days to a week. However, surgical extractions may take a little longer to heal.
How do I know something is wrong after extraction?
Following our aftercare instructions minimizes the risk of complications after tooth extraction. However, it’s essential to watch out for symptoms of a serious problem, such as an infection. Warning signs include severe pain, increased swelling, fever, or a bad taste in your mouth.
What are the benefits of dental extractions?
Losing your tooth can feel like losing a part of yourself. We see it differently. Dental extractions are somewhat of a clean slate and help avoid the domino effect of a damaged or infected tooth.
Here are the benefits of dental extractions.
- Relieves pain
- Prevents widespread infections
- Makes your smile future-ready for an implant or bridge
- Resolves overcrowding
Should I replace my extracted tooth?
Unless it’s a wisdom tooth or an overcrowded tooth, you should replace your tooth as soon as possible. Without replacement, this may lead to diminished oral function and long-term consequences, such as jawbone loss. Tooth replacement options include dental implants, bridges, or partial dentures. We’ll recommend the best option for your smile and budget.
How much does a dental extraction cost in Maryville, TN?
The exact cost depends on the tooth’s condition, complexity, and your insurance coverage. We’ll provide a personalized cost after an in-office consultation.
Who offers high-quality dental extractions near me in Maryville?
At Proffitt Dentistry, we strive to avoid dental extractions whenever possible. However, if it’s the only option, we treat you with compassion, precision, and utmost care. Call (865) 432-0804 and schedule your consultation today!
