Sustaining Oral Health With Tooth Extractions
Tooth extractions may be necessary for various reasons, such as severe decay, advanced periodontal disease, fractures that cannot be repaired, or to address poorly positioned teeth like impacted ones. Some extractions are also done in preparation for orthodontic treatments. While extracting a tooth can solve immediate dental issues, it can also affect your chewing ability, lead to jaw joint problems, and cause shifting of surrounding teeth, all of which impact your overall dental health. To prevent these complications, Dr. Hu will discuss possible alternatives to extractions and plan for the replacement of the extracted tooth, helping maintain your oral health and function in the long term.
Prioritizing Comfort And Wellbeing
If a tooth is severely damaged or causing ongoing issues, it may be necessary to remove it to prevent further complications and preserve the health of your other teeth. In cases where extraction is unavoidable, Dr. Hu ensures the process is as comfortable as possible, providing a thorough discussion of your treatment options and post-care instructions to ensure a smooth recovery. With Dr. Hu’s expertise, we not only handle the extraction itself but also work with you on a plan to restore your smile, addressing any gaps left behind to maintain the functionality and appearance of your teeth. Whether through dental implants, bridges, or dentures, we’ll guide you through the most suitable options for restoring your smile after an extraction.


Frequently Asked Questions
A tooth extraction may be necessary if a tooth is severely decayed, infected, broken beyond repair, or impacted. It may also be required for orthodontic treatment or to address advanced gum disease.
The initial recovery time usually takes a few days. Swelling typically subsides within 48 hours, and any discomfort should lessen within a few days. Full healing may take a few weeks, depending on the complexity of the extraction.
After the procedure, bite on gauze for 30-45 minutes to stop the bleeding. Avoid sucking on straws, smoking, or vigorous rinsing for 72 hours. Apply an ice pack to reduce swelling and take pain medications as prescribed. Resume normal oral hygiene after 24 hours, but avoid brushing the extraction site for a few days.
The extraction process typically takes between 20-40 minutes, depending on the complexity of the tooth removal.