Frequently Asked Questions About Tooth Extractions

The idea of a tooth extraction is daunting and can cause anxiety. However, tooth extraction is sometimes necessary, and more problems can occur if a tooth is not removed, especially unnecessary pain caused by an infected tooth. Dr. Kuzi Hsue and his excellent team understand how scary tooth extraction can be, but they will be there for you every step, providing the best care with ultimate comfort as you are their number one priority when you are in the dental chair. At West Valley Dental in Tukwila, Washington, our dentist and his team offer tooth extractions to help ease pain for all their patients. 

In this blog, we have compiled a list of commonly asked questions regarding tooth extractions. At West Valley Dental, we want our patients to have the full extent of knowledge regarding their treatment plans, and we hope this list can help you overcome some of your dental anxiety when it comes to tooth extractions. So, let’s dive in and answer some common questions about tooth extractions! 

Tooth extractions are necessary for several reasons, including:

Additionally, extractions may be necessary to prepare for orthodontic treatment or if a tooth is impacted (trapped beneath the gum). If you need a tooth extraction, our excellent Dr. Hsue will provide expert and comfortable treatment during your care . A tooth extraction is a scary thought, but with various options to help ease your anxiety, you can receive the necessary treatment without panic taking over your mind. 

With the local anesthesia we provide in the office, the extraction process should be painless. However, after the treatment, it is expected to experience mild discomfort. Mild symptoms you may experience after treatment include: 

Fortunately, swelling and pain can be relieved with over-the-counter pain relief medications and ice packs. However, Dr. Hsue may prescribe some medication to help manage the pain during healing. 

Recovery from a tooth extraction generally takes a few days. Dr. Hsue will provide specific aftercare instructions to promote healing and minimize discomfort.

After tooth extraction, eat soft foods and gradually reintroduce harder foods as your mouth heals. Soft foods that would be good to eat after receiving a tooth extraction include: 

Complete healing of the extraction site can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months. However, pain and discomfort should subside within a few days to a week. Following Dr. Hsue’s aftercare instructions is essential to promote proper healing.

While complications from a tooth extraction are rare, they may include:

If you experience any of these issues, contacting our office for further guidance and treatment is essential.

In most cases, yes. When you have a tooth pulled, it is common to want to know if there is anything you can do to restore your smile. You can schedule a consultation with Dr. Hsue to see if dental implants work for your situation. 

Dr. Hsue will provide clear instructions to help in promoting complete healing. However, you must follow the steps to ensure your tooth extraction site heals properly. Measures to ensure full recovery include: 

In some cases, alternative treatments, such as periodontal treatment, may save the affected tooth. 

• Periodontal Treatment: Our office offers gum disease treatment that uses deep cleaning. We will numb your mouth and provide a thorough, deep cleaning to encourage your gums to heal. The treatment is not surgery, but it can be intimidating. But with proper sedation and numbing, it can be a comfortable process that will help restore your smile and allow your affected tooth to stay and avoid removal. 

It depends on your specific insurance plan. Some plans may cover a portion of the cost, while others may not cover it at all. It’s best to check with your insurance provider before undergoing any dental procedures to determine your coverage and potential out-of-pocket costs.

Overall, tooth extractions are a standard and safe procedure dentists perform to promote overall oral health. If you have additional questions or concerns about tooth extractions, consult Dr. Hsue for personalized guidance and recommendations. While tooth extractions seem intimidating, they are often necessary for maintaining good oral health. Remember to consistently practice good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing twice daily and flossing daily.

Schedule a consultation today and see if tooth extractions are proper for you ! Remember, even if you require a tooth extraction, Dr. Hsue and his team will take excellent care of you with complete comfort and care.