Extractions

Although we always try to protect our natural teeth, there are times when tooth extraction is unavoidable. 

At Covington Signature Dentistry in Covington, Washington, we use preliminary exams and X-rays to plan the perfect way to extract a tooth and use our expertise to ensure the extraction is performed in the safest manner possible, with minimum discomfort.

Common Reasons for Tooth Extraction

• A tooth is severely rotten and cannot be saved, and there is a threat of the infection spreading to other parts of the mouth.
• A primary tooth has not fallen out and is causing trouble for the eruption of the permanent teeth.
• To decrease the risk of gum infection and decay.
• For orthodontic treatments.

How Is Tooth Extraction Performed?

When you visit our dental office in Covington, Washington, for a tooth extraction, Dr. Yeh will start the procedure with a dental exam to check the tooth's condition. Dr. Yeh will evaluate the tooth's position in the jawbone and determine if the tooth can be saved. 

An extraction is recommended only when the affected tooth is affecting your oral health or when an artificial replacement is a better alternative. 

Tooth extraction is performed under local anesthesia. Based on the tooth's position, it can be pulled out using dental instruments through a simple procedure or a surgical one.

Simple Extraction

When the top section of the tooth is visible above the gum-line and the root of the tooth is straight, Dr. Yeh will remove the tooth using forceps and elevators. Once the tooth is pulled out from its position, the bone socket is filled with bone graft material.

Surgical Extraction

A surgical extraction is recommended when a portion of the tooth's crown or the whole tooth is under the gum line. For this, an incision is made in the gums, and the overlapping bone material is removed before the tooth is taken out. 

In complex situations, the tooth may have to be broken into pieces and taken out. The surgical area will then be sealed with sutures to ensure proper healing.

Tooth Extraction Aftercare

Once the tooth extraction is concluded, you may experience some discomfort but it will be short-lasting. 

Our team at Covington Signature Dentistry will provide detailed aftercare instructions. While you can brush and floss normally, Dr. Yeh recommends you do not brush or vigorously rinse the treated area for the first twenty-four hours.

To help reduce swelling, minimize pain, and speed up recovery, you can use over-the-counter painkillers.

If you have any queries about tooth extractions, visit Covington Signature Dentistry at 27121 174th Place SE, Suite 202, Covington, WA 98042, or call (253) 6389955.