Extractions in Middletown, CT

Holzinger Periodontics & Dental Implants provides dental extractions in Middletown, CT.  Contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.

The term dental extraction refers to the deliberate removal of a tooth from the mouth, otherwise referred to as “having a tooth pulled.”  A tooth may need to be extracted if it is severely decayed or damaged beyond saving with restorative procedures. Some patients may need to have all or most of their teeth extracted in preparation for dentures. 

Most dental extractions can be performed with local anesthesia to numb the area. The tooth is carefully loosened and then removed. A stitch or two may be used to close the gum tissue if needed.   In some cases, if a patient is interested in an implant to replace the missing tooth, a bone graft will also be placed at the time of extraction.

Having one or more teeth extracted can be beneficial: 

• Relieve pain. A tooth that is severely decayed or damaged can cause pain, sometimes extreme discomfort. Removing the tooth relieves the pain at the source. 

• Prevent infection. A decayed or damaged tooth can become infected, and that infection can spread to the neighboring teeth, gums, and even the jaw bone. Extracting the tooth can prevent further problems. 

• Alleviate crowding. When there is not enough space in the mouth for all of the teeth, extracting one or more teeth can alleviate the crowding and allow the remaining teeth to straighten out. 

• Prepare for prosthetics. If you are in need of replacement teeth, such as a dental implant, bridge, or dentures, extraction of the existing teeth will be necessary before replacing them. 

Your dentist may recommend having one or more teeth extracted if they are decayed or damaged too extensively to be saved with restorative procedures. You may also be a good candidate for dental extractions if your jaw is too small to allow all of your permanent teeth to fit in proper alignment. In most cases extraction is a last resort when there is no other way to save a tooth.

Most dental practices perform extractions. But periodontists specialize in treating the support structures for the teeth, including the gums and jaw. Holzinger Periodontics & Dental Implants can extract teeth when necessary and provide replacements when the time is right. We specialize in the placement of dental implants for single tooth replacement as well as bridges and dentures.

Local anesthesia is used during tooth extraction, so you should not feel any pain during the procedure. Afterwards, once the local anesthesia wears off you may feel some discomfort. You can take over the counter pain medication before the anesthesia wears off to keep soreness from developing.

It is best to stick to a diet of liquids and soft foods after a tooth extraction. Cold foods and beverages are best because they can reduce swelling and inflammation. Warm foods and beverages should be allowed to cool thoroughly before consuming. Avoid drinking through a straw because it can cause a painful condition called dry socket.

You may only feel discomfort for a few days after a tooth extraction. We recommend taking it easy for 2-3 days following your procedure. In a week you should be able to eat normally again. Complete healing of the gum tissue may take up to a month.

Dental insurance typically covers tooth extractions when they are deemed necessary by your dentist or periodontist. The amount or percentage of the coverage depends on your individual plan. Contact your provider for details about your dental insurance plan and coverage.

To learn more, contact us today to schedule an appointment.