Tooth Extractions (Simple and Surgical Exodontia, Wisdom Teeth Removal) in Washington, D.C.

While our dental team makes every attempt to save and maintain your natural teeth, there are cases in which a tooth or teeth may need to be taken out. A simple extraction removes a tooth that is visible above the gums. This is generally done for a tooth that is damaged or decayed beyond repair. A surgical extraction removes a tooth that has not erupted over the gums. Surgical extractions are commonly performed to take out the wisdom teeth and impacted teeth that don't have sufficient room to fit into your mouth. Regardless of the reason for having a tooth extraction in Chang & Rothkopf Dental, our team will treat you with the best care. Our Washington, D.C. practice provides different sedation methods like nitrous oxide and oral conscious sedation, which means you can stay comfortable throughout your treatment. Contact our team to find out more or schedule an assessment to boost your oral health.

While some of our patients in Washington, D.C. may contemplate delaying or avoiding tooth extractions, undergoing these treatments promptly at CK Dental & Associates following diagnosis can yield several advantageous oral health outcomes:

• Prevents damage and decay of healthy adjacent teeth
• Offers numbing and local anesthetic to keep you as comfortable as possible
• Relatively quick procedure that happens in our office
• Multiple implant options to replace beauty and function from extracted tooth

If your tooth has been broken or damaged from decay, a member of our dental team can make every attempt to repair it using a crown, bonding, or filling. However, a tooth may be too damaged and will need to be extracted to prevent the infection from spreading and to conserve the health of the remaining teeth. You could also need a dental extraction to remove a tooth or teeth that cannot fit in your mouth. This involves your third molars, commonly known as wisdom teeth that develop around the ages of 17 – 21. In older children, infant teeth that have not fallen out naturally may need to be extracted — so they don't block the permanent teeth. If you're getting orthodontics or considering Invisalign, you might need a simple extraction to make room for the remaining teeth as they move into their normal position.

Depending on the sedation used during your extraction, you may need to have a responsible adult take you home. While your mouth heals, you need to avoid using straws, smoking, and spitting. Your recovery will vary based on the extent of your dental extraction, but most patients want to eat soft, room-temperature food for at least a couple of days following the extraction. Dr. Chang will speak with you regarding what to expect during your recovery and ways to look after your mouth. Your gums will probably be swollen after the extraction, therefore Dr. Chang recommends cold compresses and over-the-counter pain medication. Sometimes, Dr. Chang can may write you a written prescription for pain medication and/or antibiotics. Along with some proposed follow-up visits, you should schedule appointments at CK Dental & Associates for dental cleanings and exams so Dr. Chang can monitor your dental health after an extraction.

Extractions are performed in our office with local anesthesia on the area around the tooth being worked on. Different forms of sedation may be used depending on the extent of the procedure and to help you stay relaxed in case you have any dental anxieties. Once you're prepared, Dr. Kye will start the procedure. For a simple extraction, Dr. Kye will loosen up the tooth with a special device known as an elevator before removing the tooth. A surgical extraction involves making incisions into your gums to get to the tooth. If necessary, the tooth could be broken into smaller pieces so it can be removed. Once the tooth is removed, Dr. Kye will close the incision in the gums. In addition, she may write a prescription for antibiotics that should be taken before and after the procedure — in case you have a current illness, if your immune system is compromised, if the process is prolonged, or if you have some other special medical problems.

Do tooth extractions hurt?

Tooth extractions generally don't hurt, but you may experience some discomfort during and after the procedure. The level of pain you feel will depend on a few factors, including the type of extraction being performed and your own personal pain tolerance. If you're concerned about pain, be sure to discuss your concerns with our team.

How do you prepare for a tooth extraction?

You'll need to brush and floss your teeth thoroughly before your extraction appointment. Although we will clean your teeth before the procedure, it's important to remove as much plaque and bacteria as possible to help reduce your risk of infection. Chang & Rothkopf Dental Group also recommends staying hydrated and getting plenty of rest the night before.

What can I eat after a tooth extraction?

It's important to eat soft foods and avoid chewing directly on the extraction site after your procedure. Some good food options include soup, mashed potatoes, yogurt, and pudding. You should also drink plenty of fluids like water and juice. Avoid hot drinks and alcohol after your extraction.

Whether you've got a tooth that's damaged or if your mouth does not have space for a new tooth, a dental extraction in Chang & Rothkopf Dental can help in improving your oral health and smile. Make an appointment with our dental professionals at our office in Washington, D.C., to find out more about surgical and simple tooth extractions. When you have dental anxieties or fears, ask about sedation options to help keep you calm and relaxed throughout your process.