Wichita Tooth Extractions: Quality Care for Your Smile

Experience Compassionate Dental Care in Wichita

Sometimes, a dental issue may necessitate an extraction. This includes when a tooth cannot be saved by a root canal or filling or when a patient has impacted wisdom teeth, among other issues. At Scheer Dentistry, we truly care about your smile and your comfort and will always use our unmatched experience to keep you informed about your health care decisions. We’ll make sure you fully understand your options and will explain the entire process before opting to remove a tooth.

Ask our office to evaluate your mouth for a potential Wichita tooth extraction by calling (316) 333-6214 or contacting us online. We always take the time to personalize your dental experience.

Preventing Infection & Tooth Decay: What You Need to Know

Every appointment begins with a thorough examination when our dentist will get to know you and your mouth. We’ll examine your tooth to determine whether or not it is salvageable, searching for signs of breaks, the extent of decay, and concerns regarding overcrowding. This is especially true in the case of wisdom teeth which are prone to overcrowding and can become impacted, leading to a necessary extraction.

Your tooth may need to be removed if:

• The pain in your tooth radiates to the gum or has caused swelling in your jaw
• X-rays show there is not enough room for your wisdom teeth, or that they are coming in crooked
• The tooth is visibly split or broken, to the point that cosmetic repair would not be effective
• You suffer from chronic bad breath that cannot be treated by normal measures
• You notice mobility in your teeth, meaning that the root has become infected

These cases may or may not be painful. If you are in pain, we always want to take care of you as soon as possible. We may be able to accommodate an afterhours or weekend appointment, when available, to help ease your pain.

Understanding the Tooth Extraction Procedure

In some cases, a tooth may simply be "wiggled" loose through the use of forceps at our dental office. However, teeth must be visible above the gum line for this procedure to be effective. Other teeth, especially impacted wisdom teeth, need to be removed through a surgical procedure. Your cheeks, gums, and mouth will be numbed and gum will be gently opened using a small incision. In some cases, the tooth must be broken to be removed from your jaw.

Recovery time and healing varies according to the type of procedure you receive. We want our patients to feel fully comfortable when going through a tooth extraction and always make sure you are made thoroughly aware of what to expect.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long will the pain last after a tooth extraction, and what can I do to manage it?

Pain duration varies depending on the complexity of the extraction and individual healing. Generally, you can expect some discomfort for a few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help manage pain. Your dentist may also prescribe stronger pain medication if necessary. Applying ice packs to the outside of your cheek for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day, can help reduce swelling and pain. Following your dentist's post-extraction care instructions is crucial for minimizing discomfort and promoting healing. If you experience severe or prolonged pain, contact Scheer Dentistry immediately.

How soon after a tooth extraction can I eat solid food?

It's best to stick to soft foods for the first few days after your extraction. You can gradually reintroduce solid foods as your healing progresses, usually within a week. Avoid hard, crunchy, or chewy foods that could irritate the extraction site.

Can I brush my teeth after a tooth extraction?

Yes, you can brush your teeth after a tooth extraction, but be gentle around the extraction site. Avoid brushing directly over the socket for the first few days. You can rinse gently with warm salt water after 24 hours to help keep the area clean.

When you have a potential tooth issue, start by contacting our skilled dentist for an exam. We can help you understand if a Wichita tooth extraction will help you. Call us at (316) 333-6214 today.