Tooth Extractions

While the preference is always to retain natural teeth for as long as possible, sometimes, tooth extractions are necessary. Whether you have a wisdom tooth without room to grow or a tooth that is severely decayed, you should never have to fear visiting the dentist. At the office of Dr. Pete N. Mellas, DMD, we make sure tooth extractions in Scottsdale, AZ are as comfortable and easy as possible.

Reasons Dr. Mellas May Recommend a Tooth Extraction

Tooth extractions are treated as a last resort in most cases. However, certain situations require a tooth to be pulled because not doing so could put your health or the health of the rest of your teeth at risk. For example, a wisdom tooth that doesn’t have sufficient space to grow can impact other teeth in the jawbone below the gums. A tooth that is severely decayed also needs to be removed to eliminate the pain the tooth may be causing. In some cases, extractions are necessary due to severe periodontal disease.

What Happens During a Tooth Extraction Procedure?

Tooth extractions are one of the most commonly performed dental procedures, and the process is relatively simple:

1. The nerves surrounding the tooth are numbed with local anesthesia
2. The dentist uses forceps to remove the affected tooth
3. You will be asked to apply pressure to the extraction site by biting on a piece of rolled gauze

There are also two types of tooth extractions: general and surgical. General extractions involve removing a tooth that is fully erupted, while a surgical extraction involves a tooth that is concealed below the gum line or has decayed below the gum line.

Common Questions Regarding Tooth Extractions

How long will it take my mouth to heal after a tooth is extracted?

The opening left in your gums after a tooth is pulled usually takes about three or four weeks to fully heal. During this time, you may have some minimal swelling and tenderness but should not feel any pain.

Will tooth extraction be painful?

Dr. Mellas takes every step to keep patients comfortable while getting a tooth pulled. Local numbing medications injected into the gums will desensitize nerves surrounding the tooth. Therefore, you should only feel movement and a bit of pressure as the tooth is pulled.

How can you stop bleeding after getting a tooth pulled?

Applying gentle pressure is the best way to encourage blood to clot so the extraction site stops bleeding. Normally, you will have minimal bleeding for a few hours after the extraction. If bleeding persists, there may be an issue with clot formation, and you may need to return to the dentist.

Need a Tooth Pulled? Trust a Skilled Scottsdale Dentist

At the office of Dr. Pete N. Mellas, DMD, we do all we can to give patients access to comfortable dental care, even during an extraction. Do you have a tooth that needs to be pulled? Reach out to schedule an appointment.