Oral Surgery in Independence KY
Oral surgery treatment is the process of extracting teeth. At Peter Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, we will always look at all the treatment options available before extraction. If we cannot save your natural tooth, Dr. Peter has extensive knowledge and training on how to provide you with a smooth and comfortable tooth removal process.
Dr. Peter can treat many conditions with Oral Surgery including:
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Impacted teeth removal
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Wisdom teeth removal
Why would I need a tooth extraction?
Having a tooth pulled is never an ideal situation, but there are a few reasons why it might be necessary for your oral health.
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Decayed/Damaged Tooth: If a tooth is heavily decayed, infected, or damaged beyond repair, it is best to remove the tooth to prevent the decay from spreading to other parts of your mouth. After the extraction, there are many tooth replacement options available at Peter Family and Cosmetic Dentistry to restore the function of your smile.
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Orthodontics: Sometimes, tooth extraction is necessary to make room in your mouth for orthodontic treatment.
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Wisdom Teeth Extractions: One of the most common oral surgery procedures is wisdom teeth removal. Wisdom teeth – the last four teeth on the top and bottom of your mouth – typically surface between the ages of 17 and 25. Most people don’t have room in the jaw to accommodate them and need tooth extractions. Teeth become impacted due to the lack of space to surface correctly.
Types of impacted wisdom teeth:
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Soft Tissue Impaction: Though the tooth’s crown has broken the surface, a portion of gum still covers part of the tooth. Food can become trapped in the gum flap allowing for decay and infection.
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Partial Bony Impaction: The tooth has partially surfaced, but part of it is still below the gum and bone, making it prone to infection and decay because of cleaning difficulties.
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Complete Bony Impaction: This is the most challenging type of tooth extraction to perform. In this case, the tooth has not broken the surface and remains impacted in the jaw bone.
If your wisdom teeth are causing dental issues, it’s to your benefit to have a tooth extraction and get them removed.
Is tooth removal painful?
When you come in for your tooth extraction, Dr. Peter will ensure that your mouth is completely numb before beginning the procedure. We also offer various dental sedation services if necessary to keep you comfortable and relaxed during the extraction.
Tooth Extraction Recovery
After removing your tooth, Dr. Peter will pack the area with gauze and leave it there for about 30 minutes to control the bleeding. It’s normal for the site to bleed for a couple of days following the procedure. You will also experience some tenderness and swelling, which is managed with over-the-counter pain medication. Dr. Peter will give you instructions on how to care for the extraction site and promote healing. Proper care typically includes avoiding:
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Using a straw
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Spitting
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Smoking
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Chewing crunchy or hard foods
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Touching the empty socket
How much does a tooth extraction cost?
Insurance typically covers a portion of the cost for tooth extractions necessary for maintaining your oral health. If you have questions about what your dental insurance plan covers, feel free to contact our office. Peter Family and Cosmetic Dentistry also provides payment plans if you don’t have insurance or your plan won’t cover the extraction.
Tooth Extractions in Independence, KY
Nobody gets excited about tooth extractions, but Peter Family and Cosmetic Dentistry has the experience necessary to make you feel comfortable during the whole process. Whether you need a tooth extraction for orthodontics, or to begin your tooth replacement journey, our Independence, KY dentist office is here for you. Contact us today to schedule an exam if you think you might need a tooth extraction.