Understanding Teeth Extraction: What You Need to Know

At Stanley Dentistry in Cary, NC, we understand that the thought of having a tooth extracted can be daunting. However, with over 20 years of experience in performing teeth extractions, our skilled and compassionate team is dedicated to ensuring your comfort and safety throughout the entire process. We take great care in providing a smooth, pain-free experience and encourage you to trust us with your dental needs.

Why You Might Need a Tooth Extraction

Teeth extractions are sometimes necessary for maintaining your overall oral health. Here are some common reasons why a tooth might need to be removed:

1. Severe Decay or Infection: If a tooth is too damaged or infected to be saved with treatments like root canals or fillings, extraction can prevent the spread of infection.
2. Crowded Mouth: Extracting teeth can create space for orthodontic treatments or help other teeth align properly.
3. Impacted Teeth: Wisdom teeth often become impacted, causing pain, infection, or damage to neighboring teeth. Removing them can prevent these issues.
4. Periodontal Disease: Advanced gum disease can loosen teeth, making extraction necessary to protect your gums and other teeth.
5. Trauma or Injury: Severely damaged teeth due to accidents may need to be removed if they cannot be repaired.

What to Expect During a Tooth Extraction

We prioritize your comfort and well-being during the extraction process. Here's what you can expect:

1. Preparation and Anesthesia: We will take an X-ray of your tooth to plan the best approach for removal. You'll receive local anesthesia to numb the area and ensure minimal discomfort. For more complex cases, sedation or general anesthesia may be recommended to enhance your comfort.
2. The Extraction Process: Simple extractions involve loosening the tooth with an elevator and removing it with forceps. Surgical extractions, needed for impacted teeth or broken teeth, involve making an incision in your gum. Regardless of the type, we perform each procedure with precision and care.
3. Aftercare Instructions: After the extraction, you'll receive detailed aftercare instructions to promote healing and prevent complications. These include managing bleeding, diet recommendations, and medication guidelines.

Post-Extraction Care

Proper care after your extraction is crucial for a smooth recovery. Here are some tips:

1. Manage Bleeding: Bite on gauze for 30-45 minutes to help form a blood clot. If bleeding continues, replace the gauze and bite gently.
2. Reduce Swelling: Apply an ice pack to the outside of your cheek for 20-minute intervals to minimize swelling and discomfort.
3. Soft Diet: Stick to soft foods like yogurt, applesauce, and mashed potatoes for the first few days, avoiding hot, spicy, or crunchy foods.
4. Keep the Area Clean: Avoid rinsing your mouth vigorously or using a straw for the first 24 hours. After that, gently rinse with warm salt water.
5. Rest: Take it easy for the first 24 hours, avoiding strenuous activities to help the healing process.

Why Choose Stanley Dentistry for Your Tooth Extraction?

At Stanley Dentistry, we bring over two decades of expertise and a deep commitment to patient care. We understand the importance of trust and comfort when it comes to dental procedures. Here’s why you should choose us:

• Experience: With more than 20 years of experience, our team is highly skilled in performing extractions safely and efficiently.
• Comfort: We use the latest techniques and sedation options to ensure your procedure is as comfortable and pain-free as possible.
• Personalized Care: We treat each patient with the utmost care and attention, ensuring you feel supported every step of the way.

If you need a tooth extraction, we encourage you to come to Stanley Dentistry. Our experienced team is here to provide you with the highest quality care, ensuring a comfortable and successful procedure.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call us at (919) 460-9665. Trust Stanley Dentistry with your dental health—we’re here to help you smile with confidence.

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