ToothExtractions
About Tooth Extractions in Louisville, KY
MINT dentists will always work to try and save your natural tooth first; however, there are some cases where a tooth extraction is needed to preserve your oral health. Simple extractions are performed to address a tooth that can be seen above the gum tissues. This type of removal is commonly done for a tooth that is irreparably damaged. On the other hand, a surgical extraction removes a tooth or teeth that are underneath the gumline, such as the wisdom teeth. Whatever your reason for requiring tooth removal, our knowledgeable team at MINT dentistry will make sure that you feel comfortable and cared for. Our practice in Louisville, KY offers multiple sedation techniques, such as nitrous oxide and oral-conscious sedation, so you stay relaxed throughout your procedure. Reach out to our dental practice for more information or to book an exam so we can find out if you require a tooth removal.
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When Is a Tooth Extraction Needed?
A tooth cap or fillings are often used by MINT dentistry professionals to repair a severely damaged tooth. However, when these treatments are not viable, a tooth extraction might be required. Patients could also require a dental extraction to address teeth that won't comfortably grow into your smile, such as the wisdom teeth, which often develop between 17 – 21 years old. In older children, baby teeth that have not come loose might need to be removed to generate room for new teeth. If you're considering braces or Invisalign® orthodontics, you may need to have a tooth pulled to create room as your other teeth move into alignment.
How Is a Tooth Extraction Performed?
Our Louisville, KY office offers sedation methods to keep you comfortable during your extraction procedure. The type of sedation we provide you will be based on the type of tooth removal you're receiving and whether or not you have any detrimental dental fears. Before your treatment is performed, our team will ensure that you're at ease. When everything is in place, we will start the extraction. For a simple extraction, one of our dental professionals will utilize advanced techniques and tools to gently remove the tooth. Surgical extractions will start when our team creates an opening in your gum tissues to access the affected tooth. In some instances, the tooth is separated into smaller pieces, making it simpler to extract. After the affected teeth are extracted, your dentist will sew the incision closed.
Extraction Aftercare Recommendations
Depending on which sedation method is used during your extraction, a trusted friend or family member will need to drive you home. Your dentist will share specific guidelines to enhance your healing. The instructions will be different depending on the technique used for your dental extraction, but most patients prefer to stick to a liquid or soft food diet for the first few days following the procedure. Your face might swell and feel uncomfortable after having a tooth removal, so we recommend using cold compresses and store-bought aspirin. When appropriate, our team might set you up with antibiotics and painkillers. Along with any scheduled appointments for check-ups, you need to come in for twice-yearly cleanings and yearly exams at our MINT dentistry practice in Louisville, KY so our team can keep monitoring the condition of your smile.
The MINT Commitment
Though dental insurance may cover a part of your simple or surgical extraction, some sedation techniques may not be covered. Following your treatment planning session, our team will reach out to your insurance company to figure out your coverage and calculate any out-of-pocket costs. If you don't have insurance, we can help you understand how to better cover your treatment with convenient payment options or low-interest medical financing.
Comprehensive Dental Care
A tooth extraction can help to revamp your smile by removing a damaged or eroded tooth or making room for orthodontics. Schedule an oral exam with one of our dental professionals at our respected MINT dentistry location in Louisville, KY to learn more about tooth removals, as well as the approaches we provide. Our highly trained team wants to ensure that you're at ease and help you receive the stunning smile of your dreams.