Tooth Extractions in Tukwila, WA: Your Guide to Gentle, Comfortable Care

If you've been told you need a tooth extraction, you may feel nervous or apprehensive about the procedure. At Benca & Gee Dental Wellness in Tukwila, WA, we understand these concerns and make every effort to ensure your extraction is as quick, comfortable, and stress-free as possible. Here's everything you need to know about tooth extraction by Benca & Gee Dental Wellness.

What Are Tooth Extractions and Why Are They Performed?

A tooth extraction in Tukwila, WA is a procedure to remove a tooth from your mouth. This is typically done when a tooth is too damaged or decayed to be repaired with fillings or crowns. Extractions may also be performed for orthodontic reasons, to make room in the mouth for proper tooth alignment.

There are several types of extractions:

• Simple extraction: Removal of an erupted tooth visible in the mouth. This is the most common type.

• Surgical extraction: For teeth that are broken, impacted or haven't erupted through the gums. This involves a small incision in the gums. This may involve a small incision in the gums, sectioning the tooth, and/or removal of a small amount of bone that is locking the tooth in.

• Wisdom tooth extraction: Removal of wisdom teeth, often due to impaction or lack of room in the mouth.

Some common reasons tooth extractions are performed include:

• Severely decayed tooth or infected tooth

• Fractured or damaged teeth

• Orthodontic treatment requiring space

• Teeth affecting other teeth spacing or alignment

• Advanced periodontal disease

• Wisdom teeth complications

While losing a tooth is something most patients dread, there are many benefits to getting an extraction over leaving a problematic tooth in place. Removing unhealthy teeth can:

• Relieve pain caused by tooth damage, decay or tooth infection

• Eliminate harmful bacteria that can spread infection

• Improve your ability to chew and bite down

• Support better tooth alignment for a healthy, functional smile

Our extraction dentist in Tukwila, WA will only recommend extraction when necessary and after a thorough examination of your mouth, teeth and gums.

Preparing for Your Tooth Extraction

The thought of having a tooth pulled can be unsettling. Our caring team will provide all the information you need to prepare physically and mentally for your procedure.

A few days before your extraction:

• Avoid smoking - Refrain from cigarette smoking for a few days prior to your extraction, as this can inhibit healing and increase the chances of developing dry socket.

• Adapt your diet - Stick to soft, cool foods that require little chewing in the days leading up to the procedure.

• Take medications as directed - If antibiotics or other medications are prescribed beforehand, be sure to take them fully and on time.

The day of your extraction:

• Arrive on a full stomach - Eat a light meal before your appointment to avoid feeling lightheaded or dizzy during the procedure.

• Take any prescribed sedation medication - If you've been prescribed anti-anxiety medication or sedation to take before your extraction, be sure to take it precisely as directed.

• Wear comfortable, loose clothing - Dress for your comfort to help you relax during the procedure.

By taking these preparatory steps, you can rest assured we'll provide a smooth, anxiety-free extraction experience.

During the Extraction: What to Expect

At Benca & Gee Dental Wellness, your comfort is our top priority. Here's an overview of what you can expect during your tooth extraction:

• Numbing - You'll receive local anesthetic to fully numb the area being worked on. For extensive procedures, dental sedation options like nitrous oxide or oral anti-anxiety medications can be used to maximize comfort.

• Tooth removal - Using specialized dental tools, your dentist will gently loosen then remove the tooth and surrounding infected soft tissue as needed.

• Cleaning the socket - The socket (empty space left behind) will be rinsed and scrubbed to remove debris and bacteria.

• Stitches - If you have a surgical extraction, the gums will be stitched closed using dissolvable sutures.

• Gauze placement - Gauze will be placed into the empty socket to control bleeding as clotting occurs.

• Bite down - You'll bite down on the gauze pad for the recommended time period to apply pressure and stop any bleeding.

• Post-op instructions - Your dentist will provide you with aftercare instructions verbally and in writing before you leave.

While extractions sound invasive, our entire team works diligently to ensure your physical and emotional ease every step of the way. Many patients are pleasantly surprised by just how gentle, efficient and relatively painless their tooth extraction is when performed by our skilled dentists.

Recovery, Aftercare & Healing Tips

With proper aftercare, your post-extraction recovery can be quick and comfortable. Follow these tips to support your healing:

The first 24 hours:

• Gently bite down on gauze pads, replacing as needed, to control bleeding. Limit yourself to light activities and rest.

• Take prescribed pain medications as directed to manage discomfort. Ibuprofen or acetaminophen are usually adequate.

• Apply an ice pack to the facial area for 10-minute intervals to minimize swelling.

• Drink lots of liquids and avoid smoking, spitting, and using a straw, as this can dislodge the blood clot.

• Eat only soft, cool foods. Avoid very hot or spicy foods.

The following days:

• Rinse your mouth very gently with warm salt water after meals to keep the area clean.

• Take all medications until finished to prevent infection.

• Abstain from rigorous exercise, vigorous rinsing/spitting and excessive talking or jaw movement.

• Transition to a soft food diet, taking care to chew on the opposite side of your mouth.

With time, the extraction site will gradually fill in with bone and the tissue will heal. Proper dental hygiene and regular dental visits can prevent the need for future extractions. Be sure to call our office with any concerns during your recovery.

Tooth Extraction Costs and Insurance Coverage

The cost of tooth extractions can vary based on the type and complexity of the procedure, your insurance coverage and geographical location. On average, patients can expect to pay:

• Simple extraction cost: $75 - $200

• Surgical extraction cost: $150 - $600

• Wisdom tooth extraction cost: $150 - $350 per tooth

Many dental insurance plans cover a portion of extraction costs when deemed medically necessary. Our team is happy to verify your policy details and provide a cost estimate specific to your plan coverage. Multiple payment options like extended financing are also available upon request.

Choose Benca & Gee Dental Wellness for Your Extraction

When you're facing a necessary tooth extraction, including an emergency tooth extraction or same day tooth extraction, you deserve personalized care and compassion. At Benca & Gee Dental Wellness in Tukwila, WA, our doctors have decades of combined experience providing gentle, comfortable extractions with excellent results. With advanced techniques, sedation dentistry options, and a patient-first approach, you can feel at ease in our office knowing you're receiving the highest quality of care. We handle even complex cases efficiently in-house, only referring to a specialist for the most involved wisdom tooth impactions.

To learn more about tooth extractions or schedule your procedure, give us a call to schedule your appointment. We also offer emergency walk-in services, as needed.

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