Tooth Extraction
You might need a tooth extraction. While preservation of your natural teeth is always the priority, some teeth are too compromised to save.
Dr. Gregory Bauer and his Lakewood, CO, team of dental professionals can perform an extraction to provide relief and restore your health.
Why Are Teeth Removed?
Wisdom teeth are not the only permanent teeth that sometimes need to be removed. All teeth are at risk of becoming infected or broken. If you are experiencing dental pain or have suffered trauma, it is important to speak with your dental professional to see if a tooth extraction or another solution is necessary. Your dentist may recommend extraction because of:
Infection
If tooth decay reaches the pulp (the center of the tooth which consists of nerves and blood vessels), bacteria can invade and cause infection. Sometimes this can be corrected with root canal therapy, but when the infection is too severe, your dentist will extract the tooth.
Overcrowding
If you are getting braces or preparing for any other orthodontic procedure, your teeth need room to move and straighten. If they do not have that room, you may need a tooth extraction. Likewise, tooth extraction may be necessary if a tooth cannot break through the gums due to not having enough space.
Trauma
If you have suffered an injury to your mouth or jaw, sometimes the teeth or a tooth are beyond repair. Extraction may also be the best solution if a tooth is too badly cracked or chipped.Gum disease
Periodontal disease (gum disease) can cause loosening of the teeth, which could require an extraction.
Dr. Bauer can coordinate dental implant placement and restoration to replace extracted teeth and complete your smile.
Tooth extraction is typically a quick outpatient procedure. Your dentist will provide anesthesia for your comfort.
Don't Let Tooth Pain Turn To Infection Call Our Lakewood, Colorado, Office Today!
Dr. Bauer and his entire Lakewood staff are here to provide the treatment you need and keep you comfortable during the process. You will discover our dentistry team is committed to listening to your needs and concerns in order to provide the best solutions for you. If you're in pain, don't wait. Come and see why our patients love us so much! Call our Lakewood office or contact us online to request your appointment. You can also email us with any questions you may have.
Our Patients Love Us! "Best dentist ever!"
andriagee
2020
Is it crazy to say that I actually look forward to going to the dentist!?? I have been going to Dr. Bauer for years (both the old one and the new one) and they do the best dental work around! The whole staff is friendly and courteous and they truly make me love my teeth!! Best dentist ever!
View on GoogleCathy Keady
2020
Our family has been going to Bear Creek dental for many years. We always feel that we get excellent service and attention. The office has a very friendly and warm atmosphere. Doctor Bauer takes care of our dental needs with expertise and gentle care and Debbie my hygienist is super.
View on GoogleWe welcome patients from throughout Greater Lakewood.
Types of Extraction
Depending on the severity of the case and the location of the tooth within the mouth, your dentist will either suggest a general or surgical extraction. Removing visible teeth would be classified as a simple tooth extraction. Removing teeth that are impacted or broken typically requires surgery.
Simple
- Usually only requires local anesthesia
- Removes the tooth only
- Quick removal
Surgical
- Requires local anesthesia, and sedation may be recommended
- Removes the tooth and any obstructive tissue
- Longer procedure with more recovery time
Preparing For Your Tooth Extraction Appointment
Depending on the number of teeth and the amount of bone and other tissue to be removed, certain medications will have to be stopped before your tooth extraction. For example, blood thinners are not recommended because they can affect the blood clotting process and delay healing after the procedure. After your consultation, your dentist will be sure to tell you what medications should and should not be taken.
Tooth Extraction Procedure
The first step is to make an appointment with your dentist.
Aftercare
The first few days after surgery at our Lakewood office, you will need to follow your doctor's instructions. Taking care of the area will allow the blood clotting to begin. A clot needs to form so the bleeding can subside and the wound can heal.
Changing Dental Gauze
Immediately following your tooth removal appointment, your dentist will put a thick layer of gauze over the extraction site. This must be worn for at least 20-30 minutes after your appointment. Once the gauze is soaked through with blood, it will need to be replaced. Patients can expect bleeding for 1-2 days.
Pain Control
The local anesthetic should only last a few hours following your procedure. Depending on the severity of the pain, your doctor may prescribe you medication. However, over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen are usually enough to alleviate the pain.
Swelling Control
Mild facial swelling can be expected in the first few days. Applying ice or a cold compress to the area will help minimize the swelling and the pain.
Do Not Agitate The Extraction Site
If you disturb the site, you can prevent a blood clot from forming. This will result in continued bleeding and delayed healing. Patients should not suck on the site, touch it with their tongue, drink through a straw, eat solid foods, or rinse their mouths forcefully (especially with products containing alcohol). Take extra caution when brushing and flossing.
Eating
Dental patients should only be eating soft foods after their tooth extraction. As the wound begins to heal, you can reintroduce more solid food while chewing on the opposite side of the mouth.
Dry Socket
One of the most common risks of having a tooth pulled is a dry socket. A dry socket is when a blood clot hasn't formed, or the clot became dislodged from the wound, leaving your bone exposed. It can happen with any tooth removal, not just wisdom teeth.
Dry sockets are incredibly painful and typically form two to three days after surgery, but can happen anytime before the wound has fully healed. Be sure to contact your doctor if you are experiencing intense, radiating pain. Treatment usually consists of rinsing the area and covering the bone with a dental paste. By following your dentist's aftercare instructions, you can avoid developing a dry socket and heal quickly and safely.
"Dr. Bauer and his staff are amazing!!"
Vicki Groninga
2020
Dr. Bauer and his staff are amazing!! Dr. Bauer is caring, compassionate and a wonderful dentist. He takes the time to explain everything he is doing and is really gentle...I have never really been fond of dentists but my experience with this practice has changed my outlook, The staff here is the best! I highly recommend this practice to anyone searching for a dentist
View on GoogleK K
2019
I have been a patient at Bear Creek Dental for over 10 years. The hygienists are top notch. And Dr. Bauer has never done wrong by me. This is a very friendly, comfortable, and highly competent dental office. Thank you Bear Creek.
View on Google
