Tooth Extractions – North Raleigh, NC

Reasons Why Tooth Extractions Are Necessary

A tooth extraction is typically used as a last resort once all other treatment options have been ruled out. Dr. Lisk typically recommends one if:

• The enamel is so damaged that a dental crown or filling won’t help it.
• Gum disease has made the tooth’s root weak and unstable.
• Damaged teeth need to be removed to make room for a properly fitted denture.
• A tooth has become trapped within the gums/jawbone.
• More room is needed in the mouth so the teeth can shift in response to orthodontics.

The Process of Removing a Tooth

Every tooth extraction starts with a conversation between the patient and Dr. Lisk so he can walk them through the procedure, ensuring there are no surprises. He’ll explain each step as well as answer any questions to curtail possible nerves.

The treatment itself will start with Dr. Lisk numbing the area completely with local anesthetic, and he may provide sedation dentistry if necessary as well. Once the patient can’t feel anything, he’ll use dental forceps to gently wiggle the tooth until it slips out. There is no actual “pulling” at any point! A light touch is all he needs when using the correct technique. Most patients describe feeling a little pressure while in the chair, but nothing that resembles pain.

Wisdom Tooth Extractions

When wisdom teeth don’t have enough room to grow, they get trapped under the gums and cause pain, infection, and other dental problems. More likely than not, you’ll need to have them removed to prevent long-term issues. It is sometimes possible to keep your wisdom teeth, but it all depends on the risk they pose. If you’re between the ages of 17 and 25, it’s a good idea to talk to Dr. Lisk about the possibility of a wisdom tooth extraction in the future.

Tooth Extraction Aftercare

Dr. Lisk and our team will cover the treatment site with gauze right after the extraction, and in the first 24 hours, it’s important that a patient does NOT use a straw, spit, smoke, or move around too much. All of these activities can prevent the formation of a clot, which is essential for healing (and avoiding a painful complication called dry socket).

After the first day, a patient should stick to a soft food diet that mostly includes items like yogurt, scrambled eggs, pudding, and(not too hot) soup. Any pain medication should be taken as directed, and the dressings will probably need to be changed a few times a day. Most patients feel completely back to normal within a week and can resume their regular diet and activity level.