At University Centre Dental Associates, Dr. Maurice Haynes offers tooth extractions as part of his top-notch general dental services for local residents in and around Washington, DC, including residents in Greenbelt, MD, and Bowie, MD, as well as Prince George’s County, Montgomery County, and Anne Arundel County.
What Is a Tooth Extraction?
A tooth extraction involves removing a tooth from a socket, located in the jaw bone.
When Is a Tooth Extraction Advised?
Removal of the tooth is recommended when a tooth has decayed or is damaged beyond repair. Loose teeth are also extracted if they can’t be saved with a bone graft or a bone replacement procedure. In other cases, extractions are undertaken if teeth need to be removed for the fitting of braces or the permanent teeth cannot come in because the baby teeth have yet to fall out.
Why Are Wisdom Teeth Removed?
Wisdom teeth, also known as the third molars, are commonly extracted during early adulthood. Removal of the teeth is often required if they are impacted or have become lodged in the jaw and cannot come in. Typically, all four teeth are removed at the same time.
X-raying the Extraction Site
Usually the dentist will first take X-rays of the extraction site to determine the best removal method. A panoramic X-ray is normally taken if the wisdom teeth are being removed. Panoramic X-rays can show the dentist the relationship of the wisdom teeth to the surrounding teeth and if there is any infection present. In some instances, the dentist may prescribe an antibiotic before the extraction and afterwards.
A Simple Extraction
A simple extraction is generally undertaken on a tooth that can be visually seen. A tool called an elevator is used to loosen the tooth, and forceps are used for removal. Usually, a local anesthetic is administered to numb the area.
A Surgical Extraction
A surgical extraction is indicated for a tooth that is broken at the gum line or has not yet erupted. During the extraction, the dentist places a small incision into the gum to remove the tooth. A local anesthetic is generally used to numb the site and some patients also receive anesthesia administered through a vein. If this becomes necessary the patient will be referred to an oral surgeon’s office.
Is an Extraction Painful?
During an extraction, a patient will experience some pressure, but they shouldn’t feel any discomfort or pain.
What Is Involved in the After Care?
Patients are advised to eat soft foods several days after the surgery. In addition, a salt water rinse is recommended to keep the mouth clean. Any swelling or bleeding will end within a couple of days. Initial healing will take about two weeks. If the patient requires stitches, the dentist will normally use dissolvable sutures. Patients should not spit or use a straw after the procedure as doing so can draw the blood clot out of the extraction site. Any swelling can initially be relieved with an ice pack followed by a warm compress when the swelling subsides.
Why Choose Dr. Maurice Haynes of University Centre Dental Associates?
Dr. Maurice Haynes stays up-to-date on the newest advances and technologies in the field of dentistry in order to provide his patients with the best care possible. He combines excellent dental services with compassion and is an active member of the American Dental Association.
How Much Does Tooth Extraction Cost in Greenbelt, MD?
The cost for tooth extraction varies. Please schedule a consultation with University Centre Dental Associates to discuss your particular case.
Your dental insurance (LINK) may cover the cost of tooth extraction. Because every policy is different, the staff at University Centre Dental Associates will review your information and help determine the status of your tooth extraction coverage.
We provide financing (LINK) through CareCredit® as an option for any out-of-pocket tooth extraction costs you may have. University Centre Dental Associates also offers a variety of payment methods to help make the process easier for our tooth extraction patients.
Additional Family Dentistry (LINK) Topics:
- Crowns (LINK)
- Dental Bridges (LINK)
- Dental Fillings(LINK)
- Dental Hygiene(LINK)
- Dental Sealants(LINK)
- Dental X-Rays(LINK)
- Dentures(LINK)
- Fluoride Treatment(LINK)
- Mouth Guards (Under Armour®) (LINK)
- Pediatric Dentistry(LINK)
- Root Canals(LINK)
- Teeth Cleaning(LINK)
How Do I Schedule a Consultation?
Please call 301-220-1900 today to schedule your initial consultation! The general dental and orthodontic services we offer at University Centre Dental Associates have improved the lives of people from in and around Washington, DC, including residents in Greenbelt, MD, and Bowie, MD, as well as Prince George’s County, Montgomery County, and Anne Arundel County. Whether you are an adult, a child, or a teenager, our knowledgeable staff is committed to helping you achieve the smile you deserve. Please call 301-220-1900 today to schedule your initial consultation!
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