Extractions

Extractions services offered in Tampa, FL

Tooth extractions can seem daunting at first, but a gentle, experienced dentist can make all the difference. Margaret Mauricio, DDS, Karim Revoredo, DDS, and the team at Smiles Tampa have the training and compassionate hands needed to perform expert tooth extractions at their offices in Tampa, Florida. If you think you need a tooth extraction, call Smiles Tampa or request an appointment online today.

Extractions Q & A

What is a tooth extraction?

A tooth extraction is the complete removal of a tooth and its roots from the socket in your jawbone. There are two kinds of extractions: simple and surgical. During a simple extraction, the Smiles Tampa team uses an instrument called an elevator to loosen the tooth before removing it.

Dentists typically recommend surgical extractions if you have a tooth that hasn’t erupted, such as a wisdom tooth or a tooth that has cracked right at the gumline.

Why would I need a tooth extraction?

You may need an extraction if your tooth is beyond repair. In most cases, the team can remove damage or decay from your tooth and build it back up with filling material or a dental crown. Unfortunately, that is not always the case. To ensure your bite is strong and your teeth remain healthy, the team may recommend an extraction.

Some of the most common reasons for a tooth extraction include severe tooth decay, a tooth infection, overcrowding, preparation for orthodontic therapy, and impacted wisdom teeth.

Are tooth extractions painful?

After a simple extraction, your gums may bleed and feel tender, but the pain should be minimal. If you’re uncomfortable following a simple extraction, an ice pack and over-the-counter pain relievers can help reduce pain and inflammation.

A surgical extraction is a more complex procedure that requires incisions in your gums to remove the tooth, as well as sutures to close the wound. You may experience pain, soreness, bleeding, and facial swelling after the procedure. Smiles Tampa may prescribe pain medication to reduce discomfort and inflammation.

What happens after a tooth extraction?

It’s important to keep the extraction area clean after your procedure to prevent infection, so the team may recommend wiping the socket with warm water until you can brush your teeth again.

If you’ve had a surgical extraction, you’re limited to soft foods for the next few days to avoid disrupting your sutures. Call Smiles Tampa right away if you experience prolonged bleeding, pain, or fever following an extraction.

You can typically return to work or school two to three days after a surgical extraction and sooner for a simple extraction.

To schedule an appointment with an experienced dentist, call Smiles Tampa or request an appointment online today.