Tooth Extractions
in Lowell, MA
Our Bright Smiles Dental team will do all we can to save a tooth but sometimes the best solution to maintain your health is a tooth extraction. Oral surgery might be necessary because your teeth are too crowded, or they may have been damaged by decay, gum disease, or an accident. We offer gentle extractions at our practice. Before proceeding, we will fully explain the procedure and the aftercare to you. Our front office will help you navigate the insurance claim. We offer a discount for cash and for our uninsured patients. We don’t want any of our patients to suffer with a toothache because they are worried about paying for a tooth extraction.
Wisdom Teeth Removal
The removal of wisdom teeth is a very common procedure. Most people start getting their wisdom teeth in their late teens and early twenties. Many of our patients do not have room in their jaw for this extra set of molars. When they start to emerge in a crowded jaw, wisdom teeth can cause a lot of problems if they are not removed. Impacted wisdom teeth can be very painful and cause damage to your jawbone and gums. Wisdom teeth growing in at a bad angle can move adjacent teeth out of alignment. Our dentists will take X-rays to assess the condition of your wisdom teeth before determining if oral surgery is necessary.
Tooth Extraction Aftercare
Although it may take a few weeks for your gums to thoroughly heal, for most tooth extractions you’ll feel like your old self after a few days. The first 24 hours are the most crucial for an easy recovery. Rest and consume clear liquids for the first day and do not smoke or use a straw. It’s important to keep the blood clot from becoming dislodged to avoid a painful condition known as dry socket. After the first 24 hours, soft foods that are not hot, cold or spicy are recommended. You should chew on the teeth away from the extraction site. Gently brush and floss your other teeth to minimize the chance of infection. Over-the-counter pain medication is usually sufficient to manage your discomfort.