Tooth Extractions in Hillsboro, Texas
Tooth Extractions in Hillsboro, Texas
A tooth extraction in Hillsboro, Texas, also known as tooth removal, is the safe removal of a tooth that can no longer be saved, and it is sometimes the healthiest choice for your smile. You and Dr. Atemnkeng Forwang may decide together that an extraction is needed for any number of reasons. Some teeth are removed because they are severely decayed, while others have advanced periodontal disease or have broken in a way that cannot be repaired. A tooth may also need removal because it is poorly positioned, such as an impacted wisdom tooth, or to prepare for orthodontic treatment. As your trusted dentist in Hillsboro, Texas, we make the process as gentle and comfortable as possible.
Removing even a single tooth can affect your ability to chew, place strain on your jaw joint, and allow neighboring teeth to shift, all of which can have a lasting impact on your dental health. That is why planning for the space left behind is an important part of your care.
To avoid these complications, Dr. Atemnkeng Forwang will discuss alternatives to extraction whenever possible, along with ways to replace the tooth afterward, such as a dental implant or dentures.
Tooth Extraction Aftercare in Hillsboro, Texas
After a tooth extraction, it is important for a blood clot to form so the bleeding stops and healing can begin. Bite gently on the gauze pad for 30 to 45 minutes right after your appointment. If bleeding or oozing continues, place a fresh gauze pad and bite firmly for another 30 minutes. You may need to repeat this a few times to slow the bleeding.
Once the clot forms, take care not to disturb or dislodge it. For 72 hours, avoid rinsing vigorously, drinking through a straw, smoking, drinking alcohol, or brushing the teeth right next to the extraction site, since these can dissolve the clot and slow healing. Limit vigorous exercise for the first 24 hours, as raised blood pressure can restart bleeding at the site.
Some discomfort and swelling are normal after an extraction. Applying an ice pack, or an unopened bag of frozen vegetables, to the area helps keep swelling down. Take any pain medication exactly as prescribed. Swelling usually eases within 48 hours.
Continue any pain medication as directed, and call our Hillsboro, Texas office if it does not seem to be helping. If antibiotics are prescribed, finish the full course even if your symptoms clear up. Drink plenty of fluids and eat soft, nourishing foods on the day of your extraction, then return to your normal diet as soon as you feel comfortable.
Within a few days you should feel back to normal and can resume your usual activities. If you have heavy bleeding, severe pain, swelling that continues for two to three days, or a reaction to your medication, call our Hillsboro, Texas office right away.
The Tooth Extraction Process
At the time of your extraction, the doctor numbs the tooth, jawbone, and surrounding gums with a local anesthetic so you stay comfortable.
During the procedure you will feel firm pressure. This comes from gently rocking the tooth to widen the socket so it can be removed.
You feel this pressure without pain, because the anesthetic numbs the nerves that carry pain while the nerves that sense pressure remain active.
If you feel any pain at all during the extraction, let us know right away and we will make sure you are comfortable.
Sectioning a Tooth
Some teeth need to be sectioned, which is a common and routine step. When a tooth is firmly anchored or has a curved root that keeps the socket from opening wide enough, the doctor divides the tooth into smaller sections and removes them one at a time. This makes the extraction easier and gentler for you.
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TOOTH EXTRACTIONS IN HILLSBORO, TEXAS
Frequently Asked Questions About Tooth Extractions in Hillsboro, Texas
Simple Answers to Help You Through Your Extraction
Does Getting a Tooth Extraction Hurt?
A tooth extraction should not hurt, because the area is fully numbed with local anesthetic before we begin. You will feel firm pressure during the procedure, but not pain. Our Hillsboro, Texas team keeps you comfortable the whole time, and if you ever feel discomfort we pause right away.
How Long Does It Take to Recover From a Tooth Extraction?
Most people feel back to normal within a few days after a tooth extraction, though the socket takes a few weeks to heal fully. Bleeding should stop within the first day, and swelling usually eases within 48 hours. Following the aftercare instructions from your Hillsboro, Texas dentist helps you heal quickly and comfortably.
What Is a Dry Socket and How Do I Avoid It?
A dry socket happens when the blood clot at the extraction site is lost too early, leaving the bone exposed and causing pain. You can avoid it by not smoking, not drinking through a straw, and not rinsing vigorously for 72 hours after your extraction. If you develop throbbing pain a few days later, call our Hillsboro, Texas office so we can help.
Do I Need to Replace an Extracted Tooth?
Replacing an extracted tooth is often a good idea, because an empty space can let nearby teeth shift and affect your bite and chewing. Common replacement options include dental implants and dentures. Dr. Atemnkeng Forwang will help you choose the best option for your smile at our Hillsboro, Texas office.
What Should I Eat After a Tooth Extraction?
On the day of your tooth extraction, stick to soft, nourishing foods such as yogurt, smoothies, mashed potatoes, and soup, and drink plenty of fluids. Avoid hot, crunchy, or chewy foods and skip straws while the clot is forming. You can return to your normal diet as soon as you feel comfortable.
Do You Remove Wisdom Teeth?
Yes. Crystal Smiles provides wisdom tooth extraction in Hillsboro, Texas for teeth that are impacted, crowded, or causing pain. Dr. Atemnkeng Forwang will examine your teeth, often with an x-ray, and explain whether removal is recommended and what to expect.
Do You See New Patients and Accept Dental Insurance?
Yes. We welcome new patients for tooth extractions and other dental care in Hillsboro, Texas. Crystal Smiles accepts most major PPO insurance plans, along with Texas Medicaid and CHIP, and offers flexible payment options. Call our team Monday through Friday to schedule your visit.