Emergency dentists are trained to handle a wide range of dental problems, including tooth extractions. If you have a tooth that needs to be extracted, an emergency dentist can provide you with the care you need.
There are a number of reasons why you might need to have a tooth extracted. Some common reasons include:
- Tooth decay
- Gum disease
- Injury
- Impacted tooth
If you have any of these problems, see an emergency dentist as soon as possible. A tooth that is not extracted can cause pain, infection, and damage to the surrounding teeth and gums. This can quickly lead to further tooth loss, and problems with the gums and jaw. Eventually, ignoring the problem can lead to advanced periodontal disease.
When you see an emergency dentist, they will first examine your tooth to determine if extraction is the best course of treatment. If extraction is necessary, the dentist will numb the area and then use a tool to remove the tooth.
After the tooth is extracted, the dentist will clean the area and place a bandage over the wound. You may also be given antibiotics to prevent infection.
Most people recover from a tooth extraction within a few days. However, it is important to follow your dentist's instructions carefully to ensure a smooth recovery.
Here are some tips for recovering from a tooth extraction:
- Rest. Avoid strenuous activity for 24 hours after your extraction.
- Ice. Apply ice to the area around your extraction for 20 minutes at a time.
- Pain medication. Take your pain medication as prescribed by your dentist.
- Mouthwash. Use a warm salt water mouthwash after meals and at bedtime.
- Diet. Avoid chewing on the side of your mouth where the tooth was extracted. Eat soft foods and drink plenty of fluids.
If you have any questions or concerns about your tooth extraction, be sure to talk to your dentist.
Here are some additional information about tooth extraction:
- Cost: The cost associated with Emergency Dental Extraction is typically higher than a regularly scheduled extraction. The cost of a tooth extraction can also vary depending on the location of the dentist and the type of extraction.
- Insurance: If possible, call your insurance on the way to treatment. Every insurance coverage has different rules and coverage options. You will likely pay a copay, but a decent portion of the cost should be offset.
- Pain: Tooth extraction can be painful, but the dentist will numb the area before they remove the tooth. You may also be given pain medication to take after the extraction.
- Recovery time: Most people recover from a tooth extraction within a few days. However, it is important to follow your dentist's instructions carefully to ensure a smooth recovery.
- Payment Options: If you are still concerned about cost, many dental centers and emergency settings offer different kinds of delayed payment options. You may simply work out a payment plan, or a monthly payment to meet along the recovery process.
Speak with your primary dentist if possible. It will help to ask some common questions about care ahead of time. Be sure to make an appointment with your regular dentist immediately following up emergency care. This will help you both be informed and aware moving forward with treatment options.
