Tooth Extractions Vero Beach
Make Way for a Healthier Smile
It would be nice if everyone could keep all of their natural teeth for a lifetime. However, that is simply not possible in some cases. If one or more of your teeth need to be removed, rest assured that tooth extractions can make way for a healthier smile. We perform this procedure with patient comfort at the forefront of our minds and, of course, we offer state-of-the-art tooth replacement via dental implants.
Why Choose Vero Beach Dental Implants at Ocean Oaks for Tooth Extractions?
- Comfortable Treatment in a Modern, Welcoming Environment
- State-of-the-Art Dental Implant Tooth Replacement
- Sedation Available for Nervous or Sensitive Patients
Reasons Why Tooth Extractions Are Necessary
There are a number of reasons why it might be necessary to remove one or more of your teeth:
- A tooth has suffered severe damage or decay that cannot be repaired via more conservative means.
- You wish to make room in your mouth for a new restoration, such as an implant denture.
- Gum disease has compromised the base of support for your teeth.
- A tooth is badly infected, and removing it is necessary to prevent the infection from spreading.
The Process of Removing a Tooth
The process of removing a tooth is usually pretty straightforward. First, we administer local anesthesia to numb the area. In certain cases, we may also provide sedation. Once you are comfortable, we use an instrument called an elevator to lift the tooth out of its socket. Next, we grip it with forceps and rock it back and forth to break the connective tissues holding it in place. We clean the socket and place gauze to prevent bleeding.
We may also perform a type of bone graft known as socket preservation, which helps to keep the jawbone strong so you can receive dental implants in the future.
Tooth Extraction Aftercare
After your tooth extraction procedure, you can support your body’s natural healing process by taking these practical steps:
- Get enough rest.
- Prop your head up on pillows when you are sleeping.
- Take any medications as prescribed by our team.
- Do not smoke.
- Do not drink through a straw.
- Maintain a thorough oral hygiene routine, but be very careful around your extraction sites.
- Get in touch with us if you have questions or concerns.
It is also important that you visit us for follow-up care. Replacing lost teeth in a timely manner can prevent future oral health complications, such as dental drift and additional tooth loss.
Understanding the Cost of Tooth Extractions
Tooth extractions are relatively affordable, but their cost can vary depending on circumstances. During your consultation, our team can share an estimate for your unique situation. We can also help you understand your payment options. Simply ask us if you have any questions about the monetary aspect of your treatment plan; we will be happy to help you find answers!
Factors That Can Affect Tooth Extraction Cost
The cost of your extraction procedure will depend on a few factors:
- Which teeth need to be removed. Some teeth are more challenging to extract than others, which can lead to higher fees.
- The number of teeth that need to be extracted. Logically, removing just one tooth will cost less than the extraction of two or more teeth.
- The complexity of your case. Due to issues like impaction or other complicating factors, some teeth require surgical removal. This takes more time and effort than simple extractions and leads to higher fees.
- Additional care. Our team specializes in dental implant services, and we strongly encourage you to consider replacing your lost teeth so you can avoid future oral health complications. The cost of implants can vary greatly depending on how many you need and other factors.
Does Dental Insurance Cover Tooth Extractions?
It is common for dental insurance to cover tooth extractions. Often, this service is classified as a basic procedure, so up to 80% of its cost might be covered. (Surgical extractions are usually 50% covered.)
In order to provide the best possible care for our patients, we require that patients pay for their treatment upfront. However, we can still assist you with filing claims so you can receive direct reimbursement from your insurance company.
Tooth Extractions FAQs
Does Getting a Tooth Extracted Hurt?
In our dental practice, your comfort is one of our highest priorities during any tooth extraction. We use advanced local anesthesia techniques to numb the area completely, so although you may notice some pressure, you should not experience any real pain during the procedure.
If you feel anxious about dental procedures, we offer oral conscious sedation to help you relax fully. After your extractions are over, you might not even remember the procedure.
Once any anesthesia and sedation wear off, you may experience some soreness or swelling, but we will provide detailed aftercare instructions and recommend the appropriate medications to help minimize any discomfort.
What Is the Recovery for Tooth Extractions Like?
Recovery from a tooth extraction is generally straightforward when you follow our post-procedure instructions. Most patients get back to feeling normal within 7 – 10 days or so. In the meantime, you may experience mild discomfort, swelling, or slight bleeding. We recommend resting, applying ice packs as needed, and avoiding strenuous activity for the first few days. You may also need to modify your diet and oral hygiene routine for several days. You are welcome to call us at any point during your recovery so we can provide guidance.
Is There an Alternative to a Tooth Extraction?
At Vero Beach Dental implants, we are experts replacing lost teeth, but we also recognize that it would be better if you could keep your natural teeth whenever possible! We share an office with Ocean Oaks Dental Group, where our team members offer a broad range of restorative services that, in some cases, may allow you to avoid the need for a tooth extraction.
However, in some cases, restorative care is simply not able to save a badly damaged tooth. If your dentist recommends that you get a tooth removed, they have likely already considered other options and deemed them to be inadequate.
What Are My Options for Replacing a Missing Tooth?
Losing a tooth can impact your confidence and oral function, but modern dentistry offers several excellent solutions for tooth replacement. Dental implants are the leading choice, as they look and function like your natural teeth. Our practice focuses on implant dentistry, and we will discuss whether this option best suits your needs.
Other alternatives include dental bridges and dentures, which can restore your smile and improve chewing. However, they do not last as long as dental implants, cannot restore the same level of chewing power, and do not offer the same health benefits for your jawbone.
Can I Leave the Space Empty After a Tooth Extraction?
While it is possible to leave an empty space after a tooth extraction, there are important considerations to keep in mind. Empty spaces can lead to shifting of your other teeth, bone loss, root recession, and changes in your bite over time. You may also be at a heightened risk of additional tooth loss. Our dental team can explain the potential consequences and help you understand the value of tooth replacement.
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