Tooth Extraction in Columbia, MD
The thought of a tooth extraction may seem intimidating, but at Pineview Dental, you can be confident you are in caring, capable hands. Our dental team is committed to providing compassionate, gentle care, while Dr. Nathaniel Fogel’s warm and approachable style will put you at ease throughout the process.
Reasons for Tooth Extraction
We believe in preserving teeth for as long as possible, so removing one is never our first choice. Still, when we have exhausted all other options, sometimes extraction remains the best option for your oral health.
Common situations where our dentist in Columbia may recommend removing a tooth include:
- Severe tooth decay or damage that cannot be repaired
- Advanced periodontal disease affecting the tooth's supporting structures
- Impacted wisdom teeth causing pain or complications
- Tooth overcrowding relief for orthodontic treatment
Ways Tooth Extraction Benefits Your Oral Health
It can be hard to imagine that removing a tooth has any benefits, but in certain situations, it's unavoidable. Here are a few ways that the procedure can actually enhance your overall health and well-being:
Relieve Pain
Control Infection
Manage Wisdom Teeth
Simplify Orthodontics
Plan Tooth Replacement
OUR TEAM
Do You Think You Need a Tooth Extraction?
Are you concerned about a badly decayed or damaged tooth? Are you in pain and think you need a tooth removed? We offer prompt care and emergency dental appointments, so you don't have to wait for the care you need. Call our dentist in Columbia, MD, at (410) 730-3311 to determine if extraction is necessary and how we can help you.
Pineview Dental welcomes patients from surrounding communities in Howard County and Greater Columbia, including Ellicott City.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most patients recover from tooth extraction within one to two weeks, though healing time varies depending on the complexity of the extraction and the patient's overall health.
- First 24 Hours: A blood clot forms in the socket with some bleeding, swelling, and discomfort. Most patients can resume light activities the day after extraction.
- Days 2-3: Swelling peaks, then begins to subside. Discomfort gradually improves as you transition from gauze pads to careful oral hygiene routines.
- Days 4-7: Visible healing begins with minimal swelling and reduced discomfort. Most patients return to normal activities and a wider variety of foods.
- Weeks 2-4: The socket continues to fill with new tissue. Simple extractions heal faster than surgical extractions like wisdom teeth removal, which may take up to a month.
Essential Extraction Recovery Tips
- Control bleeding by gently biting on gauze pads for 30-45 minutes; replace as needed
- Reduce swelling with ice packs (20 minutes on, 20 minutes off)
- Take medications as prescribed for discomfort and infection prevention
- Rest and hydrate, but avoid using straws, which can dislodge the blood clot
- Eat soft foods for the first few days
- Clean gently around the extraction site
- Avoid smoking and alcohol for at least 72 hours
- Skip strenuous activities for 3-4 days
If you experience severe pain, excessive bleeding, or signs of infection, contact our Columbia, MD, dental office immediately at (410) 730-3311. Dr. Fogel and our team are committed to ensuring your recovery is as comfortable and smooth as possible.
The area around a wisdom tooth extraction typically closes within six weeks. In the next several months, those sockets will fill with bone. During the six weeks, it will take the site to close, it is important to keep the area clean and ensure food isn’t trapped in the socket area.
Stress-Free Tooth Extraction
Our dental team is empathetic to your concerns regarding extraction. That is why we strive to create a comfortable, stress-free experience by taking the following steps:
- Examine the tooth and take x-rays to determine if tooth extraction is the best solution.
- Discuss treatment options and create a personalized plan, ensuring you understand and feel confident about the process.
- Use potent local anesthetics to numb the treatment area to ensure a pain-free extraction.
- Expertly remove the tooth to minimize discomfort and promote a fast recovery.
Tooth Replacement Options
Losing a tooth can feel like losing part of yourself. One way to make the process less daunting is to consider replacement options to restore your smile.
At Pineview Dental, we offer a variety of solutions, including dental implants, bridges, and partial dentures. Our dentist will guide you through the process and help you choose the best option for you.
Testimonial
Kind and Understanding
Dr. Fogel & everyone on staff at Pineview Dental are incredibly kind and understanding, as well as thorough to explain what would take place. I was able to get an appointment for an emergency that I had quite a lot of anxiety about, but was so relieved afterwards. Thanks so much!!!
-Amy