Tooth Extractions – Leesburg, VA

Reasons Why Tooth Extractions Are Necessary

Dr. Pham may recommend removing a tooth under the following conditions:

• Advanced periodontal (gum) disease has left your tooth unsupported.
• A severely broken tooth cannot be salvaged.
• Decay has affected too much of the tooth, and there is insufficient healthy structure left to support a crown.
• The infection or decay is likely to spread to other teeth.
• Teeth that need orthodontic care are overcrowded.

Again, if we find that an extraction is the best course of action, we’ll walk you through every step and help you remain relaxed and at ease. If needed, we can also review your tooth replacement options, including a dental bridge, dentures, and dental implants.

The Process of Removing a Tooth

The process of removing a tooth looks a bit different if it has broken through the gumline or it’s trapped underneath. If it has broken through the gumline, then Dr. Pham can grip the tooth, rock it loose, and gently remove it from the socket before tending to the extraction site. If it hasn’t broken through the gumline, then the procedure will look a bit different. After creating a small incision, we will remove the tooth section by section, ensuring your jawbone isn’t damaged in the process. In both cases, you won’t feel any pain or discomfort because your mouth will be completely numb.

Tooth Extraction Aftercare

Before you leave our office, we will provide you with aftercare instructions, like:

• Eating only soft foods, like plain yogurt
• Drinking water to stay hydrated (not through a straw)
• Changing the gauze as needed
• Taking OTC pain medication as directed
• Keeping your head elevated while you sleep
• Using a cold compress for 10 minutes at a time

If you have any questions for our Leesburg dental team about tooth extractions, don’t hesitate to reach out to us! We can provide you with helpful insight on everything from the process to the cost so you feel completely confident moving forward with your treatment plan.