Extractions

Extractions services offered in Waco, TX

Sometimes, a tooth becomes decayed or damaged beyond repair. While Jane Parks, DDS, strives to save your teeth whenever possible, she also performs tooth extractions at Parks Family Dentistry in Waco, Texas, when necessary. If you have a severely broken or decayed tooth that may need to be pulled, call the office or book an appointment online today.

Why would I need a tooth pulled?

If your tooth is badly broken, decayed, or otherwise damaged, Dr. Parks first tries to fix it with a filling or other dental restoration procedure.

Sometimes, the damage is too severe for the tooth to be saved. In these cases, Dr. Parks may suggest pulling the tooth.

Other common reasons you would need a tooth pulled include:

Tooth is too loose to work on
Crowded teeth
Severe infection
Risk of infection
Compromised immune system
Problematic wisdom teeth
Baby teeth that never fell out

What should I expect from a dental extraction procedure?

First, Dr. Parks examines your teeth to determine whether she can correct the problem. She may take X-rays to evaluate the condition of your teeth.

If you need a dental extraction, Dr. Parks numbs the treatment area with a local anesthetic. Depending on the extent of your procedure, she may suggest sedation or general anesthesia as well. Then, she removes your tooth using specialized instruments. Dr. Parks may use self-dissolving stitches to close your gum tissue or just pack the area with gauze.

What is recovery like after a dental extraction?

While you shouldn’t feel any pain during the procedure, you may begin experiencing discomfort as soon as the anesthesia begins to wear off. Recovery from a tooth extraction generally takes a few days.

Dr. Parks provides you with detailed instructions on how to best care for your extraction. These may include the following tips to help reduce the risk of infection and speed recovery time:

Take pain-killing medicines, if prescribed
Apply an ice pack
Relax for at least 24 hours after the procedure
Avoid rinsing or spitting forcefully for 24 hours
Gently rinse with salt water after 24 hours
Don’t drink from a straw
Eat soft foods
Avoid the extraction site when brushing and flossing

Once your mouth is healed, you should have the missing teeth replaced as soon as possible. Failure to replace missing teeth can cause unwanted shifting of the remaining teeth, bone deterioration, or other problems. Dr. Parks discusses your best options for tooth replacement, which may involve dentures, dental bridges, or implants.

If you suspect you may need a tooth pulled, don’t hesitate to get treatment. Call Dr. Parks or book an appointment online today.