Tooth Extractions in South Bend

Sometimes, a restoration isn’t enough to repair the tooth, making a tooth extraction in South Bend necessary. Plus, wisdom teeth may need to be pulled if they are causing infection or discomfort. Finding out that getting a tooth pulled is necessary may cause nervousness, but knowing what to expect can help ease your anxiety. Learn more about the tooth extraction procedure, the cost, and the recovery process by reading the guide below.

How Much Does Tooth Removal Cost, and Is It Covered by Insurance?

The tooth extraction cost will vary depending on the difficulty of the procedure, how many follow-up visits are necessary, and whether you have a surgical or simple extraction. Insurance plans typically provide coverage for dental extractions because they are usually medically necessary. Call our office today for more information about the price of a tooth extraction.

When Is it Necessary to see an Oral Surgeon?

Many simple extractions can be performed by your general dentist. However, more complicated procedures, such as removing an impacted wisdom tooth, should be performed by an oral surgeon. Your dentist will examine the affected tooth and refer you to an experienced oral surgeon if it must be surgically extracted.

Do Damaged Teeth Always Need to be Extracted?

Our dentists make every effort to save damaged teeth, including root canal therapy and filling cavities. However, some teeth have significant structural damage that cannot be repaired by these methods. Teeth that are compromised due to late-stage gum disease, those that are severely cracked, or impacted wisdom teeth all may need to be removed. These situations often cause great discomfort, which should subside once you have had the tooth pulled.

When Will a Dentist Extract Decayed, Broken, or Cracked Teeth?

Tooth extractions are usually necessary when a tooth is decayed or broken past its center or when a significant portion of the tooth is missing. If the dentist determines that you must have the tooth pulled, they will explain your options for restoring it through a dental implant.

Do Dentists Extract Baby Teeth?

Baby teeth that have large cavities or are blocking an adult tooth from emerging often need to be extracted. These conditions can often cause soreness, so call our office if your child is feeling any discomfort.

Does Late Stage Gum Disease Result in Tooth Loss?

Regular cleanings at the dentist can prevent advanced gum disease that leads to tooth loss. Over time, the disease causes the ligaments supporting the tooth to degrade, which causes the tooth to loosen. Our dentist may recommend a tooth extraction to relieve any pain you may be experiencing.

Do All Wisdom Teeth Need to be Extracted?

A third set of large molars that appear during the late teens and early adult years, wisdom teeth aren’t necessary for dental health. In fact, many people lack the space in the jawbone to support them. Wisdom teeth can grow in sideways, causing discomfort as they are impacted in the jaw. We recommend that wisdom teeth be removed, particularly if they are impacted, to avoid problems from developing in the future.

Does a Dentist Extract Extra Adult Teeth?

Some people develop extra adult teeth, which can cause alignment problems like crowding. Many dentists opt to remove these teeth before orthodontic treatment begins to allow space for the remaining teeth to move into place.

What Are the Typical Teeth Extraction Aftercare Instructions?

Caring for your mouth following an extraction is essential because it allows a blood clot to form at the surgical site. The dentist will offer advice on foods and activities to avoid immediately following the procedure. You also may receive medication to assist with pain and swelling. If you have any questions about the tooth extraction healing process post-procedure, give us a call.

Will it Take a Long Time for the Extraction Site to Heal?

Dentists recommend that patients avoid strenuous activities for at least a week following a surgical extraction. Moderate activities can be resumed within 24 hours in most cases. Recovery times vary, with molars and large teeth extractions taking longer to heal than those with smaller teeth. Surgical procedures also have a longer healing time than simple extractions performed at our office.

Don’t sacrifice your dental health – if a decayed or broken tooth is causing you pain, we can help. Call us now if you’re searching for an experienced dentist to perform a tooth extraction in South Bend.