Dr. Keith Boenning and Dr. Nate Dancykier are experienced general dentists in Towson, MD. They provide safe and comfortable tooth extractions to patients who need to remove a problematic tooth from their smiles.
We also offer wisdom tooth removal services in-office. Our team has the appropriate training and skill to safely remove unwanted teeth from your smile to help you restore your dental health. Learn more about tooth extractions below.
Tooth Extractions in Towson, MD
Our Towson dental office is happy to provide safe tooth extraction procedures. We will utilize appropriate sedation dentistry solutions to keep you calm and comfortable during the extraction procedure.
If your tooth has already grown in, we will gently rock it back and forth to dislodge it from your jawbone. If the tooth has not already grown in, we will make a small incision in your gums to reach and remove the unwanted tooth.
A tooth extraction is nothing to be afraid of. While our main goal is to help our patients maintain great dental health and wellness, sometimes this means we need to remove problematic teeth. Sometimes it is simply best to remove a damaged, impacted, or severely decayed tooth.
Our dentists are happy to answer any questions you have about the tooth extraction procedure during your upcoming appointment.
Extraction or Root Canal Procedure?
If you suffer from an infection or damage inside your tooth, we may attempt a root canal procedure first. Root canal therapy will remove the damaged tissue and nerve from inside the tooth and essentially save it. However, if the tooth is beyond saving because of the infection, then we may need to remove it. Your dentist will examine the tooth to determine which is the best course of action for your oral health.
Understanding Your Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth cause a wide range of concerns within your smile. They grow in much later than the rest of your permanent teeth. For some people, there isn’t much room left for them to grow into. This means that your other teeth may begin to shift around to make space for the additional teeth.
Without any space, your wisdom teeth may become impacted and cause toothaches. Even if there is enough space in your mouth for the wisdom teeth to grow, many patients will still notice discomfort. Wisdom teeth grow into the far back corners of your mouth, making them especially difficult to brush and floss.
Many patients with intact wisdom teeth will have to deal with severe decay. For these reasons, it has become standard practice to have wisdom teeth removed. Having them removed sooner rather than later will avoid future pain or discomfort.
Tooth Extraction FAQs
A dental extraction is a common dental general dentistry treatment that our dentists will use only when necessary. Learn more about the procedure by reading through our frequently asked questions.
How do I prepare myself for a tooth extraction?
To prepare for tooth extraction, it is important that you are as healthy as possible before your appointment. Follow your dentist’s instructions regarding diet, medication use, and other essential preparations.
On the day of the procedure, wear comfortable clothing and avoid eating or drinking for a few hours before the appointment. Arrange for transportation home if you receive sedation. You may also need to avoid certain activities, such as smoking or drinking through a straw, to prevent complications.
How painful is a tooth extraction?
Tooth extractions can be painful, but the exact amount of pain you will experience depends on your specific case. Your dentist will give you a local anesthetic to reduce the discomfort during the procedure. They may also provide you with medications and other treatments to help minimize your pain following the tooth extraction.
How long does it take to recover from a tooth extraction procedure?
The recovery time after tooth extraction can vary. It can depend on the type of extraction, the patient’s age, health, and whether any complications arise. It can take two days to two weeks to completely recover from the procedure.
Your dentist will prescribe pain relief medications to help with the discomfort during this period. Additionally, follow your dentist’s instructions for aftercare to ensure a full and speedy recovery.
What foods can I eat after tooth extraction?
After tooth extraction, you should eat soft foods that are easy to chew and won’t irritate the wound. Smoothies, yogurt, mashed potatoes, soup, and applesauce are foods you can eat. Avoid hard, chewy, or crunchy foods that could disturb the extraction site. Lastly, refrain from consuming hot or spicy foods until the wound has healed.
Can I brush my teeth after a tooth extraction?
Avoid brushing your teeth for at least 24 hours after your tooth extraction. After that period, you can gently brush and floss around the area of the extraction. Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water can also keep the area clean and promote healing. Be sure to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle pressure when brushing and flossing so your mouth can heal properly.
What helps gums heal faster after extraction?
To help your gums heal after a tooth extraction, you should follow your aftercare instructions. Make sure to keep the area clean. This may include applying ice to the extraction area and avoiding hot or spicy foods.
Additionally, rinsing with warm salt water several times daily can keep the area clean. Also, avoid smoking and drinking alcohol, as these can increase the risk of complications.
Book an appointment for a tooth extraction in Towson, MD, today. Do you need to remove your wisdom teeth, or are you suffering from severe decay or an injury? Call our dental office today to request an appointment with Dr. Keith Boenning or Dr. Nate Dancykier. They will be able to diagnose your dental problem and recommend an extraction if it is necessary.