Dental Extractions

At Acorn Dental in Marlton, NJ, we prioritize providing exceptional dental care tailored to your needs. Led by the skilled Dr. Woodfork, our team manages your dental health with expertise and attention. Our dedicated owner, Dr. Sherly, has cultivated an environment where patient care comes first. We specialize in various dental services, including dental extractions in Marlton, aimed at helping you maintain optimal oral health.

What are Dental Extractions in Marlton?

Dental extractions in Marlton, commonly called tooth removal, are procedures to remove teeth from their dental sockets. We recommend this process when a patient has a severely damaged tooth caused by decay or trauma, and we cannot save the tooth by other means like fillings or crowns. Extractions can also be necessary when there is overcrowding in the mouth to make room for orthodontic treatments or impacted wisdom teeth that pose potential health issues.

Types of Extractions

Not all dental extractions are created equal. There are two main types of extractions, each serving different purposes based on the tooth’s condition and surrounding tissue.

Simple

The first type is a simple extraction, usually performed on visible teeth in the mouth. This procedure involves loosening the tooth using a dental tool called an elevator and removing it with forceps.

Surgical

The second type is a surgical extraction, which is more complex and typically performed on teeth that are not easily accessible. This category includes impacted wisdom teeth, broken teeth below the gum line, or teeth that haven’t fully erupted. Surgical extractions often require an incision in the gum.

Signs a Dental Extraction Might Be Necessary

Recognizing when a dental extraction in Marlton is necessary to prevent further oral health issues. Here are some signs to look out for:

Severe Tooth Decay or Damage: When a damaged tooth is beyond repair due to decay or trauma, extraction may be the best option to prevent infection and protect surrounding teeth.
Gum Disease: Advanced periodontal disease can loosen teeth, making extraction a viable solution to halt disease progression and maintain oral health.
Impacted Wisdom Teeth: These teeth can cause overcrowding, pain, and infection. Extracting them can prevent further complications.
Overcrowding: Sometimes, teeth extraction is necessary to make room for proper alignment during orthodontic treatments.
Recurring Infection: Teeth that frequently become infected despite treatment may need removal to prevent systemic health issues.

The Procedure Process Detailed Guide

Undergoing a dental extraction can be a worrying prospect, but understanding the process can help ease anxiety and prepare you for a smooth experience. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the steps involved in the tooth extraction process in Marlton, NJ.

Initial Consultation and X-Rays

Before the extraction, Dr. Woodfork or another team member will thoroughly evaluate your dental health. This involves discussing your symptoms and health history and, crucially, taking X-rays. The X-rays provide insights into the tooth’s condition and surrounding bone structure, helping to plan the most effective extraction strategy.

Pre-Extraction Preparations

Before the procedure begins, you’ll receive specific instructions to ensure safety and comfort. These guidelines may include fasting recommendations if you are undergoing sedation or advice regarding routine medications. Following these instructions is crucial to minimize any risks associated with the extraction.

Anesthesia Administration

We may administer local anesthesia to ensure a comfortable and pain-free process. The anesthesia will numb the area around the tooth. For patients with higher anxiety levels or, in the case of more complex extractions, we offer other forms of sedation to make sure the procedure is as comfortable as possible for you.

Tooth Extraction

Simple Extraction: The dentist gently loosens the tooth in its socket and uses forceps to remove it carefully once it is sufficiently loose.
Surgical Extraction: This procedure involves more. After making a small incision in the gum to access the tooth, we may remove portions of the bone or tooth for an effective extraction.

Post-Extraction Care

Once we remove the tooth, Dr. Woodfork will place gauze over the site to control bleeding. The dentist will provide instructions on how to manage the recovery at home, including how long to keep the gauze in place and how to care for the site to promote healing and prevent infection. These instructions may also include prescribed medications and guidance on diet and activity.

Follow-Up Appointment

A follow-up appointment ensures the site is healing well and addresses any questions or complications you might have post-extraction. During this visit, Dr. Woodfork will check the gum tissue’s health and assess if further treatment is necessary.

Aftercare for a Smooth Recovery

Following a dental extraction in Marlton, proper aftercare is essential to promote healing and prevent complications. Patients should adhere strictly to the following guidelines provided by Acorn Dental:

Control Bleeding: Keep the gauze pad over the extraction site for a few hours after the procedure. Replace it as directed or if it becomes soaked with blood. Slight bleeding is normal, but contact your dentist if it continues or becomes excessive.
Manage Swelling and Pain: To reduce swelling, apply an ice pack to the outside of the cheek for 15-minute intervals. Your dentist may recommend taking over-the-counter pain relievers to manage discomfort.
Careful Hygiene Practices: Practice gentle oral hygiene, avoiding the extraction site. Rinsing your mouth with a saline solution 24 hours after the procedure can help keep the area clean and reduce bacteria.
Diet Considerations: Stick to soft foods and liquids for the first 24 hours, avoiding hot foods, alcohol, and tobacco, as these can irritate the site and delay healing.
Rest: Limit physical activity and rest as much as possible on the extraction day. Elevate your head with pillows when lying down to minimize swelling.
Follow-Up Care: Attend your scheduled appointment to ensure your gums heal properly. Contact your dentist if you experience severe pain, fever, or any signs of infection.

By adhering to these aftercare instructions, patients can ensure a swift and successful recovery, minimize the risk of complications, and return to their regular routines as soon as possible.

Benefits of Dental Extractions in Marlton

While a dental extraction in Marlton, NJ, might seem daunting, it offers several significant benefits to oral health. Here are five advantages:

Prevents Further Damage: Extracting a severely decayed or damaged tooth stops the spread of infection and prevents damage to adjacent teeth and gums.
Alleviates Pain: Removal provides relief and improves the quality of life for teeth causing chronic pain due to decay or impaction.
Enhances Oral Health: Removing problematic teeth reduces the risk of infection and overcrowding, promoting healthier gums and teeth alignment.
Facilitates Orthodontic Treatments: Extracting certain teeth creates space, aiding in the proper alignment of teeth during orthodontic procedures.
Improves Aesthetics: Removing unsightly or damaged teeth can enhance the appearance of your smile and boost confidence.