Tooth Extraction
A tooth extraction is the procedure to remove a tooth. Ideally, a tooth is only removed if there are no other options to prolong the usefulness of the tooth. A tooth extraction may be necessary if a tooth becomes severely damaged from decay, periodontal disease, or trauma. There are a number of other reasons why a tooth may need an extraction—lack of room for all of the teeth in the mouth in preparation for orthodontic treatment (braces), fractured teeth that cannot be saved with a dental crown, or even extra teeth or malformed teeth that are not functional.
Usually, a tooth extraction is relatively straightforward and does not require much time. Using local anesthetic injections (“shots”), sensations can be numbed up so that the patient does not feel sharp pain. Nitrous oxide (also known as laughing gas) can also be used to relax patients having extractions performed at Dr. Street’s office. Some teeth (especially long, multi-rooted teeth) can take more time to remove than others and may require extra steps for a successful extraction.
A thorough understanding of the patient’s health, past surgeries, and current medications is necessary before performing an extraction. Once the tooth is extracted, the socket where the tooth root used to reside needs time to heal. This healing involves forming a blood clot in the extraction site, which promotes bone and gum tissue to form over time. A “dry socket” is an unpleasant complication that can occur if the blot clot fails to form or dislodges before the extraction site has healed.
To prevent dry sockets, a patient should:
- Avoid smoking for at least 48 hours after the extraction
- Avoid drinking through a straw or rinsing their mouth vigorously for 48 hours
- Keep the toothbrush away from the extraction site during brushing
- Follow the temporary diet suggested by Dr. Street (such as soft and non-spicy food)
With modern tooth extraction procedures and recommended follow-up care, a tooth extraction can be a simple and painless process.
If you think you need a tooth extraction, give your Tulsa dentist at T-Town smiles a call at (918) 488-9770 to schedule an appointment.
Accepting New Patients
Looking for a full-service dentist in Tulsa?
At the office of Dr. Scott Street, we offer stress-free family care using modern technology and an old-fashioned personal approach. We provide a full selection of dental treatments, from routine cleanings to top-quality dental restorations. If you are looking for a full-service family dentist in Tulsa, OK, call us today at 918-481-4922 or use our online Appointment Request form.
Office Location
Suite 1107 (11th Floor)
Tulsa, OK 74136
Phone: 918-481-4922
Fax: 918-481-4969
Office Hours
Tuesday 8am - 5pm
Wednesday 8am - 5pm
Thursday 8am - 5pm
Friday 8am - 5pm
Additional times are available.
Dr. Scott Street and the team at T-Town Smiles are proud to be the local Tulsa Dentist serving families in Tulsa, Broken Arrow, Jenks, Oakhurst, Bixby, Glenpool and surrounding Tulsa communities.