Gentle Tooth Extractions in Alpharetta, GA
The focus of care at Atlanta Center for Dental Health is the preservation of healthy tooth structure. In some instances, we need to consider if extracting a tooth is the best option for optimal oral health. There are a few reasons that Dr. Hepler may discuss the necessity for tooth extraction. These include:
- A tooth is poorly positioned and involved in misalignment or bite issues
- Advanced gum disease has caused extensive weakening of the support around a tooth
- A tooth has been injured
- A tooth has died from injury
- Severe decay has significantly weakened natural tooth structure
Dr. Hepler and his friendly team want to save you time. Our Alpharetta dental office provides most of the services you and your family will need to address various dental concerns. Through extensive training and commitment to excellence, we perform extractions in a manner that achieves the desired outcome: patient satisfaction.
Wisdom teeth
The most commonly performed extraction procedure is the removal of wisdom teeth.
We usually see the growth of wisdom teeth, or third molars, sometime between the ages of 13 and 17. There are, however, many adults who visit us for the removal of these teeth. Part of the routine care for patients who have not yet had wisdom teeth extracted is to monitor their growth or their health if these teeth have fully grown into the mouth.
Wisdom teeth have reputation for being rather difficult. The primary reason for this is there is rarely enough space in the arches to accommodate two additional teeth (there are two upper wisdom teeth and two lower). When these teeth have no open space to grow into, they may become trapped. Wisdom teeth may be impacted, fully trapped beneath the gums, or partially impacted. Partial impaction occurs when teeth begin to grow in but are then halted, sitting partially beneath the gums and partially in the mouth.
Impaction is a concern for several reasons. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause persistent pressure and discomfort at the back of the mouth. There is also a risk for infection and abscess. If third molars partially erupt, it is possible that they will push existing teeth into one another and cause overcrowding. Finally, there is a significant concern for decay and gum disease around teeth pushed out of place by wisdom teeth due to the accumulation of oral bacteria in hard-to-reach places.
Even when there is room in the mouth and wisdom teeth grow in fully, they may, at some point, need to be removed. Due to the location of wisdom teeth at the far back of the mouth, there is a tendency for bacteria to collect on and in between them, causing deep cavities.
Care tailored to you
Our goal is not to remove teeth but to sustain oral health in optimal conditions. If extraction of a tooth or teeth seems necessary, Dr. Hepler will show you why to use diagnostic imaging. He will also discuss the details of extraction. We are always happy to answer questions you have regarding recommended treatment. Your smile is critical to your sense of wellbeing and we want you to be directly involved in your care.
Patients of the Atlanta Center for Dental Health receive care from a friendly team of experienced professionals. We want your visits to be as pleasant as possible. For extractions and other treatments, you may choose to increase relaxation with our sedation services.
If you are experiencing painful dental problems or you want to avoid them, we can help. Call Atlanta Center for Dental Health today.
Frequently Asked Question About Tooth Extractions
Why do I need to remove my wisdom teeth?
Wisdom teeth often don’t have enough room to grow properly. They can become impacted, causing several unwanted symptoms.
Your dentist will recommend wisdom teeth removal if they:
- Cause pain or pressure
- Damage the surrounding teeth and bone
- Crowd nearby teeth
- Cause swelling and repeated infections
- Lead to cysts and tumors
If your wisdom tooth grows straight and healthy, it doesn’t need removal. However, your dentist will recommend removal if they cause pain and other problems. Sometimes, we can remove these third molars even when they don’t cause issues now. This proactive care helps prevent future problems.
How painful are dental extractions?
The procedure itself is not painful. We use local anesthesia and gentle techniques to ensure a painless dental experience. You may feel some pressure, but not pain. If you are anxious or your extraction is complex, oral conscious sedation is available to make your treatment anxiety-free. While you may experience mild soreness after treatment, the procedure itself is very comfortable.
Will I be awake during the extraction?
Mostly, yes. For simple extractions, we only use local anesthesia, which numbs the treatment area. You’ll remain awake throughout the treatment. If you opt for sedation, you’ll still be awake during treatment but less aware of the moment-to-moment details. Sometimes, you may doze off, but a slight nudge is all you need to wake up.
Patients sleep through their treatment when under general anesthesia. Our pain management techniques don’t knock you out.
How long will my recovery take after extraction?
Recovery is surprisingly faster than most people expect. Most patients can resume their everyday life after a day or two, but surgical extractions may take a few more days. While full healing may take a couple of weeks, the initial recovery takes a few days. Following aftercare instructions helps speed up recovery.
What should I eat after a dental extraction?
Nutrition is important for recovery, but be mindful of what you eat. At first, stick to soft, easy-to-chew foods. Think scrambled eggs, Jell-O, yogurt, mashed potatoes, smoothies, and soups. It’s important to keep hydrated, but skip straws for a few days to avoid suctioning the formed clot. Also, avoid hard, crunchy, or spicy foods and resume your regular diet as soon as your mouth feels ready.
How much will a dental extraction cost in Alpharetta?
The cost depends on the location/type of the tooth and the complexity of the extraction. We will determine the exact cost after an exam with X-rays. Our fees at Atlanta Center for Dental Health are very reasonable, and we always try to make your treatment affordable with insurance and dental financing.
Does insurance help with the cost?
Most probably. However, the amount of coverage depends on deductibles, annual maximums, co-pays, and waiting periods. Because every coverage is unique, it’s always important to verify your benefits with your provider before your treatment begins.
Are there any risks of tooth extraction?
Tooth extraction is a routine procedure when performed by a trained dentist. However, like any procedure, there are risks. These may include infection, bleeding, injured nerves, or delayed healing. That’s why skill and experience matter. It’s not just about removing a tooth—it’s about doing it safely and preserving your overall oral health.
Should I replace my extracted tooth?
In many cases, yes. Unless it’s a wisdom tooth or a crowded tooth, you should replace it to avoid:
- Limited chewing and speaking ability
- Bone loss
- Bite misalignment
- Uneven dental wear
- TMJ-related symptoms
- Diminished confidence
The good news is that modern dentistry offers multiple tooth replacement options. We recommend dental implants as the most advanced option, but bridges and partials are also practical alternatives.
Where can I get expert extraction services in the Alpharetta area?
Atlanta Center for Dental Health combines compassion with expertise to provide safe, comfortable tooth extractions. Call (866) 687-1992 and schedule an appointment with our caring dental team. We are located in Alpharetta, GA, but serve new and recurrent patients from the surrounding locations of Johns Creek, Milton, Roswell, Cumming, and beyond.
