ToothExtractions
About Tooth Extractions in Joliet, IL
At MINT dentistry, we aim to do everything we can to preserve your teeth. However, there are some instances where a tooth needs to be removed to preserve your dental health. Simple extractions are performed to remove a tooth that is visible above the gumline. This is typically done for a tooth that is irreparably decayed. However, surgical extractions remove a tooth or teeth that haven't erupted from the gums, such as wisdom teeth. Whatever your reason is for needing a tooth removed, our compassionate team will ensure that you feel calm and taken care of. Our dental care center in Joliet, IL uses several sedation options, including laughing gas and prescription medications, so you remain calm during your procedure. Call our team for more information or to schedule an exam so we can determine if a dental extraction is needed.
When Is a Tooth Extraction Needed?
When a tooth is severely decayed, our MINT dentists will first try and see if the tooth can be remedied with a crown or filling. Although, when these options are unsuccessful, a tooth extraction might be needed. Teens and adults may also need an oral extraction to address teeth that cannot work with your smile, including wisdom teeth, which commonly come in around the late teen years. At a certain point, baby teeth that have yet to fall out may have to be removed to create space for the "adult" teeth. If you're thinking about getting braces or Invisalign® aligner trays, it might require having teeth extracted to create space as your remaining teeth move into alignment.
How Is a Tooth Extraction Performed?
If you are going to have a simple or surgical extraction, our Joliet, IL team will use sedation techniques to ensure you are comfortable and relaxed during your treatment. The method of sedation used will vary by the type of extraction procedure you need and whether or not you have any dental care anxieties. Before the procedure begins, our team will ensure that you're relaxed. When everything is in place, our team will start the treatment. For a simple extraction, one of our dental care practitioners will use precise approaches and fine tools to carefully take out the tooth. Surgical extractions will start once our team creates incisions in your gums to access the tooth. For a couple of cases, the tooth is broken into smaller fragments so that it's less difficult to remove. Once the impacted teeth are removed, your dentist will sew the incision shut.
Extraction Aftercare Recommendations
Depending on what type of sedation is used during your procedure, our team may recommend bringing someone you trust with you so they can drive you home. Our team will share specific instructions with you to optimize your healing process. The instructions will be different based on the technique used for your dental extraction, but you may prefer to stick to a liquid or soft food diet for the first few days after the treatment. Your face might look puffy and feel sensitive following a dental extraction, so we suggest using cold compresses and store-bought pain meds. If needed, a member of our team may set you up with antibiotics or pain medication. As well as any recommended appointments for check-ups, you should continue to attend biannual cleanings and dental check-ups at our MINT dentistry facility in Joliet, IL so we can continue caring for the condition of your teeth.
The MINT Commitment
Dental insurance typically covers a tooth extraction, although some sedation techniques may not be covered. After your consultation, our team will get in touch with your insurance company to figure out your coverage and calculate any uncovered expenses. If you don't have dental insurance, our billing specialists will help you understand how you can more easily afford your care with convenient payment methods or medical financing.
Comprehensive Dental Care
Whether you have a damaged tooth or you are planning on using Invisalign aligners, a tooth extraction could help improve your overall dental health. Book an exam and consultation with a dental professional at our esteemed MINT dentistry practice in Joliet, IL to learn more about dental extractions and the approaches we provide. Our highly trained team does everything in their power to make sure you're comfortable and help you get the radiant smile your desire.