Tooth extractions are routine dental procedures that your dentist can perform in just one visit to our Northeast Philadelphia dentist office. This is a very common general dental service for many patients.
When a dentist makes every attempt to preserve a natural tooth and that fails, the patient will need a tooth extraction. Dentists do this as a last resort for overcrowded teeth, severely damaged or decayed teeth, or impacted wisdom teeth.
Tooth Extraction in Philadelphia, PA
Dr. Drew Shulman makes it his mission to provide comfortable and complete dental care for patients and families. Before treatment, Dr. Shulman will examine your teeth and gums and review restorative options with you. Dr. Shulman may recommend dental implants, dental bridges, or dentures depending how many teeth you are missing.
Implants, bridges, and dentures look and feel natural for patients who have missing teeth from extraction, injury, or genetics. Dental implants are a stable and durable replacements for natural teeth. Restorative options not only look great but will stabilize your smile after tooth loss and can help improve your oral health.
Patients typically recover from the procedure within a few days of treatment. However, if you experience excessive bleeding or pain, contact us right away.
Removing Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth are the third molars in the back of the mouth. Wisdom molars found in the back of the mouth can often become impacted or cause overcrowding. Patients in their late teens or early 20’s may need to have their wisdom teeth removed because of these dental issues. Before removal, Dr. Shulman will inspect your mouth to determine whether he needs to remove your wisdom teeth. We can often complete a wisdom teeth removal procedure in Philadelphia, PA in a single visit.
Dentists offer wisdom teeth removal to teens and adults in their early 20s. We offer treatment for wisdom teeth in our Philadelphia family dentist office. Wisdom teeth are the third most common teeth to develop, usually in early adulthood. They can cause pain and other issues with overcrowding and brushing. We conduct wisdom teeth extraction to alleviate these problems.
Why is it necessary to remove wisdom teeth?
It is necessary to remove wisdom teeth to avoid increased oral health problems. Often, wisdom teeth don’t have enough space to fully erupt, leading to impaction (when a tooth is unable to break through the gum-line). Because impacted teeth can cause damage and infection to surrounding tissue, they can be very painful and can even damage an adjacent tooth.
Additionally, wisdom teeth can cause overcrowding, which can lead to misalignment of the other teeth and gum and jaw problems. Removing your wisdom teeth can prevent these possible issues and can help maintain healthy gums.
How do dentists remove a wisdom tooth?
Dr. Shulman removes wisdom teeth using a surgical procedure in his office. First, he removes the gum tissue surrounding or covering the tooth. Then he gently strips away the connective tissue from the tooth and bone. Finally, he removes the tooth and sutures the gum shut. We can complete this procedure in one visit.
Tooth Extractions FAQs
Is the tooth extraction process painful?
No. Today’s modern procedures for tooth extractions are not painful. Dentists use a local anesthesia to prevent feeling during the process. Our dental care team will make sure that you are completely comfortable as well. You can also take Tylenol or another Acetaminophen pain reliever after the procedure to reduce post extraction discomfort.
Will my dental insurance cover my tooth extraction?
Yes, most dental insurance plans cover the cost of tooth extractions. Tooth extractions are a necessary procedure for some patients to maintain good oral health. Contact us today for more on what your plan can cover, or contact your dental insurance provider directly.
Is it better to have root canal or extraction?
It’s much better to get a root canal and save your natural tooth rather than the dentist pull your tooth. Decayed teeth can be saved with a root canal. A tooth is extracted because the is no other option that can save the tooth. If your mouth suffers tooth loss, it can mean a larger risk of gum disease, shifting teeth, and dry socket. Consult with our dentist for the best treatment option for your needs.
Are there restrictions to follow after a tooth extraction?
After having a tooth extracted patients are typically told to avoid smoking, drinking through straws, or using their mouth in any sucking motion. A sucking motion can stop the healing process of the open gum. It needs time to clot, which it cannot do without rest. Patients should also avoid drinking alcohol (including mouthwash with alcohol in it) for at least 24 hours after your procedure.
Can you eat normally after a tooth extraction?
After a tooth extraction patients must be careful and aware of the foods they consume. We suggest that patients eat a soft diet for 24 hours post operation. This may include foods such as yogurt, Jell-O, smoothies, and milkshakes. Once your mouth begins to feel back to normal patients may begin to slowly incorporate different foods into their diet.
Schedule A Dental Exam Today
Do you have a decayed or damaged tooth? Maybe your wisdom teeth are coming in and you’ve noticed overcrowding. Call Dr. Shulman for a consultation to evaluate your needs and discuss treatment options. Contact us at (215) 372-1142.