Extractions

Safe and Compassionate Tooth Extractions in San Antonio

When a tooth is damaged beyond repair or poses a risk to your oral health, extraction may be necessary. Heritage Dental & Orthodontics provides professional tooth extractions with a focus on your comfort and recovery.

Why Would You Need a Tooth Extraction?

Teeth may need to be extracted for various reasons, such as severe decay, infection, overcrowding, or impacted wisdom teeth. A tooth extraction is often the best option when other treatments, such as fillings or root canals, cannot restore the tooth. These are common reasons why you might need a tooth extraction.

Your teeth are:

  • Severely Damaged or Decayed: When the damage is beyond repair with a filling or crown.
  • Impacted: Wisdom teeth or other teeth trapped beneath the gums can cause pain and misalignment.
  • Infected: Severe infections or abscesses that don’t respond to antibiotics may require removal.
  • Causing Overcrowding: Extracting teeth can help prepare for orthodontic treatments like braces.
  • Damaging Adjacent Teeth: When wisdom teeth or decayed teeth put nearby teeth at risk.

Wisdom Teeth Removal

Wisdom teeth often need to be extracted to prevent crowding or pain. We offer comprehensive care for wisdom teeth extractions to make the process as smooth as possible.

What to Expect During the Extraction Procedure

Your dentist will evaluate your tooth and decide whether a simple or surgical extraction is required. For wisdom teeth, surgical extractions may be necessary. The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia or sedation, and your dentist will walk you through the process to ensure you feel comfortable.

  1. Comprehensive Evaluation: X-rays and examinations are used to plan the extraction and minimize complications.
  2. Anesthesia Options: Local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia ensures a pain-free experience.
  3. Efficient Extraction: For simple extractions, the tooth is gently loosened and removed. Surgical extractions for impacted teeth involve minor incisions for precise removal.

Recovery After Tooth Extractions

Post-extraction recovery typically involves managing discomfort with over-the-counter pain medications, avoiding certain foods, and practicing proper oral hygiene. Your dentist will provide clear instructions to reduce the risk of complications, such as dry socket or infection.

Signs of Complications

While complications are rare, monitor for:

  • Persistent bleeding or swelling.
  • Fever, chills, or signs of infection.
  • Symptoms of a fractured jaw, such as pain when moving your mouth or chewing. If you notice any of these, contact us immediately for assistance.

Cost of Tooth Extractions in San Antonio

Tooth extraction costs can vary depending on the complexity of the procedure. Our team will provide you with an estimate and work with your insurance to ensure the process is affordable.