Tooth Extractions in Farmington, NM
Dentists will do everything they can to save a natural tooth, but sometimes a tooth extraction in Farmington, NM is the best way to preserve your good oral health. If you need a tooth extraction, you can turn to Dr. Jared Lusk of Lusk Family Dentistry. Dr. Lusk, a top Farmington, NM dentist, can provide comfortable, pain-free tooth removal when a tooth extraction is your best option.
Reasons You Might Need a Tooth Extraction in Farmington, NM
There are a lot of different reasons you might need to have a tooth pulled. A few of them include:
- To reduce overcrowding of teeth
- To get ready for orthodontic treatment
- To prepare a site for a dental implant
- To reduce the risk of an infection
- To remove chipped or fractured teeth
- To restore proper jaw function
- To treat severe gum disease
Wisdom Teeth Extractions
Another reason for tooth extractions in Farmington, NM is to remove wisdom teeth. Often, wisdom teeth cause problems because they become impacted while trying to protrude through the gums. Not only does this cause pain for the patient, but it can also cause the other teeth in the mouth to move and become crowded. Sometimes a wisdom tooth only emerges partially, and a flap of skin forms over the tooth, making it difficult to clean. Food can get caught under the flap, making it an easy target for infection.
Depending on the situation, one or all four wisdom teeth might need to be removed. For the patient's comfort, a local anesthetic is generally used to numb the area before extraction.
How Tooth Extractions in Farmington, NM Are Performed
Dr. Lusk, your Farmington, NM dentist, can perform tooth extractions in our office under local anesthesia. During the procedure, he will use a technique to either break up the tooth into small pieces before removing it or loosen the tooth with forceps before pulling it out of the socket. Sutures might be used to close up the area. When possible, Dr. Lusk will use soluble sutures that will dissolve on their own.
What to Expect After a tooth extraction in Farmington, NM
You will receive specific post-procedure instructions to ensure proper healing. If you are having wisdom teeth removed, you will want to avoid eating from the side of the mouth that was treated. Irritating the treated area in any way can prevent a blood clot from forming, which may cause a problem known as dry socket. Don’t use a straw as the sucking action can cause the blood clot to dislodge.
If you are having other teeth removed, you will need to eat from the opposite side of the mouth and refrain from touching the treated area with your tongue until the tissue has completely healed. Eat soft foods after the procedure, trying other foods as chewing becomes more comfortable.
Facial swelling is usually minimal, but you can use ice packs to alleviate any discomfort. If you have any pain, you can take an over-the-counter pain reliever.
Learn more about tooth extraction in Farmington, NM by scheduling your appointment at Lusk Family Dentistry today.
