“Care That Never Feels Rushed — Even When Treatment Is Needed”
Dr Arthur was very efficient. She explained in detail the service being done. She was very very professional. No other dentist took the time to see that my teeth getting taken care of like she did. Other dentists didn't seem to care about me other than getting in, doing what needed to be done, then releasing me. I think Dr Arthur is going to be my dentist. I thank you Dr Arthur for your kindness and explaining everything in detail so i could understand it. And thanks for going that extra mile.
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If you’re scheduled for a tooth extraction in the upcoming months, or you’ve been thinking about one, OASIS Modern Dentistry & Orthodontics in Houston is more than ready to assist you.
Reasons for a Tooth Extraction
There are several reasons why a tooth may need to be pulled. Some common reasons are:
- Crowding: In some cases, patients simply have too many teeth in their mouth. Some teeth may not be able to emerge because of a lack of space. For patients that may be considering orthodontics, a crowded mouth can make it almost impossible to properly align the teeth. If this is the case, Dr. Arthur may recommend a tooth extraction to make room in the mouth.
- Damaged Teeth: At times, teeth may be damaged beyond repair. This may occur if severe trauma or decay has happened to the tooth.
- Periodontal Disease: If infection due to gum disease has caused the teeth to become loose in the sockets, it may be in the patient’s best interest to pull the teeth.
Dental Extraction Procedure
During a typical extraction, a local anesthetic will be injected before beginning the procedure. Depending on the patient, a heavier sedation method may be applied during this time as well.
This anesthetic will numb the area where the tooth will be extracted. The tooth will be elevated and grasped by dental instruments, then rocked back and forth to loosen the tooth so it can be removed.
Gauze will be applied following the tooth removal, and Dr. Arthur may even apply self-dissolving stitches to the area.
Tips for Recovery
When recovering from a tooth extraction in Houston, TX, it’s important to treat your mouth with extreme care. If painkillers are prescribed from OASIS Modern Dentistry & Orthodontics, be sure to take these according to the instructions on the packet. You may find it beneficial to ice the area as well.
If treated with care, you’ll soon forget you ever had a tooth extracted!
FAQs
A tooth extraction is recommended when a tooth cannot be saved with other treatments. Common reasons include severe decay, deep infection, advanced gum disease, cracked or broken teeth, overcrowding, or impacted wisdom teeth.
No. The procedure itself is not painful because local anesthesia is used to fully numb the area. You may feel pressure but no sharp pain. Mild soreness afterward is normal and typically lasts 1–3 days.
Initial recovery usually takes 24–72 hours. Full gum healing generally takes 1–2 weeks. Surgical or wisdom tooth extractions may require slightly longer healing time.
For at least 24–48 hours, avoid:
- Smoking or vaping
- Drinking through a straw
- Forceful spitting
- Hot, spicy, or crunchy foods
- Alcohol
- Strenuous exercise
These activities can disrupt healing and increase the risk of dry socket.
Dry socket occurs when the blood clot at the extraction site is dislodged too early, exposing the bone and causing severe pain.
To prevent dry socket:
- Avoid smoking or vaping
- Do not use straws for at least 3 days
- Eat soft foods
- Follow all aftercare instructions
- Gently keep the area clean without aggressive rinsing
Yes. You may eat once the numbness wears off. Begin with soft, cool foods and chew on the opposite side of your mouth.
Recommended foods include:
- Yogurt
- Mashed potatoes
- Smoothies (without a straw)
- Scrambled eggs
- Lukewarm soups
- Applesauce
- Oatmeal
- Soft rice or pasta
Gradually return to your normal diet as healing progresses.
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