Dental Extractions in Shreveport

Dental extractions are a very common procedure that Drs. Adam and Jana Cormier are familiar with. Some patients of Cormier Family Dentistry enter our office due to pain or problems in their mouth, while others are undergoing a routine preventative procedure.

Why would I need an extraction?

A person might need a dental extraction for any number of reasons. Most often, the procedure is a routine wisdom tooth removal to prevent teeth from crowding due to limited room within the jaw. Sometimes the wisdom tooth becomes impacted or partially impacted, leading to infection. The infection typically resolves on its own but will be swollen and painful. The infection can be treated with antibiotics but extraction is recommended. If the tooth is not removed, the infection will return and could lead to other problems.

For other patients, an extraction may involve removing a different tooth that may be problematic for other reasons. Most often, dentists will only recommend extraction if it is the best method to treat a problem.

What is the procedure like?

Dental extractions are a common procedure that may require general anesthesia, although typically only requires local anesthesia. For a standard procedure, the gums will be cut around the tooth to allow the tooth to be loosened then pulled. If necessary, the tooth can be broken into pieces to remove the tooth from the gums. In some cases, particularly if the roots are curved or stronger, more steps may be required. The incision site is then closed with sutures that typically dissolve on their own.

For non-wisdom tooth extractions an additional appliance or restoration may be needed to maintain the structure of the jaw and replace teeth. Extraction site preservation comes in many different forms. Dental implants are one of the sturdiest options and involve a surgically implanted titanium root that is capped with a ceramic tooth. A dental bridge is slightly sturdier and is typically used when more than one tooth is extracted. For some patients, partial dentures may be recommended. Partial dentures are similar to a bridge but allow the fixture to be removed.

How is the recovery process?

Patients undergoing dental extractions in Shreveport will need plenty of time to rest and recover. If the patient has undergone sedation, a friend or family member will need to transport you home. Light bleeding will occur but gauze can be applied until the site clots. Prescription pain medications or over-the-counter anti-inflammatories will be recommended to aid in pain reduction and swelling. Stick with soft foods like pudding, yogurt, or applesauce for the first few days and avoiding straws and cigarettes, which can loosen the sutures. An ice pack may also help with any pain that may occur. Most patients feel fine and are mostly back to normal after a few days.

Dental extractions are a standard procedure and once addressed will provide comfort for patients of Drs. Adam and Jana Cormier. If you have any questions about dental extractions please call our Shreveport office to schedule a consultation appointment.