Tooth Extractions near Las Vegas, NV

While cosmetic dentist Dr. Michaela Tozzi makes every attempt to rescue and maintain your natural teeth, there are instances where a tooth or teeth might have to be extracted. A simple extraction removes a tooth that is visible above the gumline. This is typically done for a tooth that's decayed or damaged and cannot be repaired. At Michaela Tozzi, DMD in Henderson, NV, our experienced dental team will do all we can to help keep you relaxed and comfortable throughout your treatment and review all of your cosmetic options for restoring your smile. We offer multiple sedation techniques, such as nitrous oxide and oral-conscious sedation. If you live in the Greater Las Vegas area, reach out to our office today to make an appointment with Dr. Tozzi.

Simple and surgical tooth extractions performed at Michaela Tozzi, DMD near Las Vegas, NV allow patients to treat problems with one or more teeth that are likely to damage the rest of the mouth and overall oral health if left untreated. Practical and cosmetic benefits of tooth extractions include:

• Averting further issues from tooth infection or decay
• Avoiding infection from partially impacted or erupted teeth
• Treating tooth problems that may result from trauma
• Preventing wisdom teeth from affecting the rest of the mouth
• Enabling the growth of permanent teeth in younger children
• Allowing orthodontics to be placed

If your tooth was damaged or broken from decay, Dr. Tozzi will make every effort to repair it with bonding, a filling, or a crown. However, a tooth might be too damaged and will need to be removed to prevent the decay from spreading — and to save the health of the remaining teeth. You may also require a simple extraction to remove visible teeth that don't fit in your mouth. In older kids, baby teeth that have not fallen out naturally may have to be extracted so they don't obstruct the permanent teeth. If you are getting orthodontics or contemplating ClearCorrect aligners, be sure to discuss this with Dr. Tozzi during your initial appointment.

Simple tooth extractions are done in our office using local anesthesia to numb the area around the tooth being treated. Other forms of sedation can be used to help you keep you relaxed in case you have some severe dental anxiety. Once the treatment area is prepped, the procedure will begin. In a simple extraction, Dr. Tozzi will loosen the tooth with a special device known as an elevator before removing it entirely. This generally only takes a few minutes to perform.

Based on the sedation used during your extraction, you might need to have a responsible adult take you home. While your gums heal, you should avoid using straws, spitting, and smoking. Most patients opt to eat soft, cool food for at least a day or two following their extraction. Dr. Tozzi will speak with you about what is normal during your recovery and the best ways to take care of your mouth. You may experience mild soreness or swelling, but this usually subsides in a few days and it can be eased with a cold compress or over-the-counter medication. A follow-up visit will also be scheduled about a week after your extraction so Dr. Tozzi can check on your healing progress.

Is a tooth extraction painful?

No, it typically is not. The first question most people ask is: "Will it hurt?". Dr. Tozzi combines powerful local anesthetics that completely numb the tooth to be pulled with multiple sedation options. These are to help keep you from feeling pain and to help you feel calm, relaxed, and comfortable during the entire procedure. Once you're finished and while you're healing, there can be some minor discomfort that is usually easily controlled with over-the-counter pain relievers and ice packs (always consult your doctor before taking any medications).

How long does a tooth extraction take?

It depends on your oral health and the size and location of the tooth or teeth to be pulled. On average, a typical tooth extraction takes about 30 – 45 minutes.

How long does it take to recover after a tooth extraction?

Most patients can expect to return to normal activities within about three days. It can take the gums up to four weeks to completely heal, during which time you will have a follow-up exam with Dr. Tozzi to monitor your progress.

What foods are best to eat after a tooth extraction?

Dr. Tozzi and her team will give you detailed aftercare instructions after your tooth extraction, which usually include eating soft, cool foods that are not spicy or acidic. Some typical foods that can be good to eat for the first 2 – 3 days after having a tooth pulled include:

• Soft, well-cooked pasta
• Oatmeal or cream of wheat
• Lukewarm soups
• Puddings
• Smoothies (but no straws)
• Mashed potatoes
• Eggs
• Jello
• Yogurt

Will my dental insurance cover tooth extractions?

An extraction is generally covered by most dental insurances, but your sedation option may or may not be fully covered. Before your procedure, we will call your insurance company to review your specific policy and estimate your expenses. If you don't have dental insurance, Dr. Tozzi can talk to you about the many payments we accept along with information about low-interest medical financing.

Is there anything I shouldn't do before my tooth extraction?

Yes, there are a number of activities that could complicate your extraction. For example, patients should not smoke, eat a heavy meal, chew tobacco, drink alcohol, or take aspirin before a tooth extraction. Failing to listen to these instructions could cause additional bleeding or pain during the procedure. Once your extraction is scheduled, we'll give you a more in-depth walkthrough of exactly how to care for your teeth leading up to your appointment.

Whether you have a tooth that is damaged or a baby tooth that has not fallen out yet, a simple extraction at Michaela Tozzi, DMD in Henderson, NV can help in improving your oral health. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Tozzi at our Las Vegas office to find out more about simple tooth extractions. If you have dental anxieties or fears, inquire about sedation methods to help keep you relaxed and calm throughout your treatment.