Tooth Extraction in Boynton Beach FL - When to See an Oral Surgeon

Tooth Extraction in Boynton Beach, Florida

Tooth extraction is a common dental procedure performed when a tooth is damaged beyond repair and needs to be removed. Some of the most common reasons for tooth extraction in Boynton Beach include:

Tooth Decay

Tooth decay occurs when plaque builds up on the teeth and erodes the enamel and dentin. If the decay is extensive and reaches the pulp of the tooth, a root canal and crown may not be able to save the tooth. Extraction is the next best option.

Periodontal Disease

Periodontal (gum) disease can cause gums to recede and expose more of the tooth surface. It also leads to bone loss around teeth. Over time, teeth can become loose and require extraction.

Tooth Injury

Trauma or injury to teeth from sports, accidents, or fights can crack, chip, or displace teeth. Depending on the severity of damage, extraction may be required.

Impacted Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth often become impacted or stuck below the gumline and other teeth. Partially erupted wisdom teeth allow bacteria to enter around the tooth and cause pain, swelling, and infection. Extracting wisdom teeth is common.

Orthodontic Treatment

Sometimes tooth extractions are done to create space in the dental arch for movement of other teeth during orthodontic treatment like braces or Invisalign. This is often done with overcrowded or misaligned teeth.

Tooth Extraction Procedure

The tooth extraction procedure involves numbing the area around the tooth first. The dentist will administer local anesthesia to block pain. For less complicated extractions, forceps are used to loosen the tooth and rock it out of the socket.

More difficult impactions may require the dentist to cut into the gums and remove bone around the tooth. After it is extracted, the socket is cleaned and stitching closed. Gauze is placed to control bleeding.

Aftercare for Tooth Extraction

Proper aftercare can enable smooth healing after tooth extractions. Patients should bite down on gauze for 45-60 minutes following the procedure to stop bleeding. Gentle rinsing and icing the area helps minimize swelling.

As the numbing medication wears off, over-the-counter pain relievers can alleviate discomfort. Antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent infection. Eating soft foods and avoiding straws/spitting is also recommended after extraction.

When to See an Oral Surgeon for Tooth Extraction in Boynton Beach

While some basic extractions can be performed by general dentists, oral surgeons receive advanced training and are experts in surgical tooth extractions. They are skilled at:

• Removing impacted, broken, or fractured teeth
• Extracting wisdom teeth
• Treating jawbone defects after tooth removal
• Extracting teeth for orthodontics

Oral surgeons have an in-depth understanding of jaw anatomy and use 3D imaging technology for surgical planning. They can also perform tooth extractions for patients with health conditions, use sedation if needed, and reduce risk of complications.

When to See an Oral Surgeon

You should consider seeing an oral surgeon for tooth extraction in Boynton Beach if you:

• Need a surgical extraction for an impacted or problematic tooth
• Have a medical condition like bleeding disorders, heart disease, or diabetes
• Need extractions before major surgery or medical treatments
• Want sedation or anesthesia options for the procedure
• Want to preserve as much bone as possible for implants later

Finding an Oral Surgeon in Boynton Beach

With many oral surgeons to choose from, how do you find the right one for your tooth extraction? Here are important factors to consider:

Board Certification

Confirm your oral surgeon is board certified by the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. This demonstrates the proper education, training, and qualifications.

Hospital Privileges

An oral surgeon should have active hospital privileges at a local hospital in case a procedure needs to be done there.

Advanced Technology

Look for an oral surgeon that uses advanced tools like intraoral cameras, 3D CBCT imaging, and operating microscopes. This enables minimally invasive extraction techniques.

Sedation Options

Oral surgeons can provide different levels of sedation, from nitrous oxide to general anesthesia depending on your needs.

Consultation and Exam

Schedule a consultation to meet the oral surgeon. They will do an exam, take x-rays, explain options, and answer your questions.

Reviews and Testimonials

Read reviews online and ask people you know for recommendations to find an oral surgeon with a good professional reputation.

Benefits of Seeing an Oral Surgeon for Tooth Extraction in Boynton Beach

Some key benefits of choosing an oral surgeon for your tooth extraction include:

• Advanced training and expertise beyond general dentists
• Ability to safely perform complex extractions
• Better outcomes with less complications
• Atraumatic extractions to preserve bone
• Availability of sedation for anxious patients
• Careful treatment planning based on exams and 3D scans
• Faster recovery compared to complicated extraction by a general dentist

With in-depth knowledge of oral health and surgical techniques, oral surgeons can remove teeth swiftly and safely. They minimize injury to surrounding teeth and bone to help you heal optimally. Consulting an experienced, trusted oral surgeon provides peace of mind knowing you are in the best hands.

FAQs

Why would I need a tooth extracted in Boynton Beach?

Some common reasons for tooth extraction in Boynton Beach include severe tooth decay, gum disease,tooth trauma or injury, crowded teeth needing space for braces, and impacted wisdom teeth causing pain or infection.

What can I expect during a tooth extraction procedure?

The oral surgeon will numb the area around the tooth first. They will then use forceps to loosen and remove the tooth. For impacted teeth, they may cut the gums and remove bone to access the tooth. After extracting it, they will clean the socket and stitch the gums closed.

How can I manage pain after a tooth extraction?

Use ice packs on your face to reduce swelling. Take over-the-counter pain medication as needed once the numbness wears off. Your oral surgeon may prescribe stronger painkillers for more complex extractions. Eat soft foods and avoid straws, spitting, and rinsing for 24 hours.

When should I see an oral surgeon versus a general dentist?

See an oral surgeon for impacted, fractured, or difficult to remove teeth. They have advanced training for complex extractions. Also see them if you need sedation options, have medical conditions, or want to preserve bone for later dental implants.

How do I find a qualified oral surgeon for tooth extraction in Boynton Beach?

Look for an oral surgeon who is board certified, has hospital privileges, uses advanced technology like 3D imaging, offers IV sedation, and has excellent online reviews. Schedule a consultation to evaluate their experience and bedside manner.