Tooth Extractions – Queen Creek, AZ
How We Remove Problem Teeth
Nothing looks as good or is as strong as the teeth we are born with, which is why Dr. Jafari works so hard to help his patients preserve them for life. Sadly, in cases of severe damage or decay, often the only option is to remove a problematic tooth before it causes even more issues. Thankfully, this procedure is very precise and comfortable here at Queen Creek Complete Dental, and Dr. Jafari can also replace teeth with high-quality reconstructive solutions if necessary. Whether for yourself or your child, he’s able to take the stress out of the entire process so patients can get the care they need without unnecessary worry.
Why Choose Queen Creek Complete Dental for Tooth Extractions?
- Patients in Pain are Seen Right Away
- Dental Lasers Make Every Procedure Comfortable
- Kind, Friendly, & Highly-Experienced Team
Reasons Why Tooth Extractions Are Necessary
Dr. Jafari normally only recommends a tooth extraction after he has exhausted all other restorative options. For example, he may suggest that a tooth be removed if:
- It is severely decayed, and the infection is starting to spread to the neighboring teeth.
- Physical trauma has broken the tooth to the point that it can’t be repaired with a filling or crown.
- It has several fillings and is on the verge of breaking.
- Periodontal (gum) disease has weakened the bone needed to hold the tooth in place.
- A patient needs more room in their mouth to fit a new denture.
The Process of Removing a Tooth
There are two primary methods of removing a tooth: a simple extraction and a surgical extraction. With a simple extraction, we numb your mouth before gripping the tooth and gently rocking it loose. With a surgical extraction, we numb your mouth, make a small incision in your gums, and remove the tooth section by section. Before your procedure, we will walk you through every step of the process and answer any questions you have so you feel completely confident with your treatment plan.
Tooth Extraction Aftercare
Our Queen Creek dental team wants both the procedure and the recovery period to be as comfortable as possible. That’s why we numb your mouth thoroughly beforehand and provide you with detailed instructions for afterward, including:
- Using a cold compress for 10 minutes at a time to alleviate swelling
- Eating only soft foods, like yogurt, pudding, and oatmeal
- Drinking water to stay hydrated (don’t use a straw or spit!)
- Taking OTC pain medication as directed
- Keeping the extraction site clean by brushing and flossing carefully
- Propping yourself up on some pillows so your head stays elevated while you sleep
- Avoiding tobacco products, alcohol, and strenuous exercise
If you have any questions for our emergency dentist – whether it’s about the procedure itself, the cost, or what you need to do to heal properly – don’t hesitate to contact us!
Tooth Extractions FAQs
Does Getting a Tooth Extracted Hurt?
Fortunately, the first step of the tooth extraction is always numbing your mouth. So, you don’t have to worry – you won’t feel any pain in the treatment chair. Even after you return home, you won’t feel any soreness, sensitivity, or discomfort for a few hours and – when/if these sensations do arise – you can take OTC pain medication to help.
Important note: If your symptoms seem to be getting worse instead of better by the three-day mark, don’t hesitate to call us! That way, we can schedule an exam to determine why that’s the case.
Can I Leave the Space Empty After a Tooth Extraction?
That depends largely on the reason why the tooth was extracted. If it was removed to make room in your mouth prior to orthodontic treatment, then it obviously doesn’t make sense to replace it. If, however, your tooth was removed because it was badly decayed, then you should replace it – even if it’s a back molar that no one can see when you smile.
Fortunately, our team at Queen Creek Dental Care offers three tooth-replacement solutions: dental bridges, dentures, and dental implants. While creating your treatment plan, we will discuss the pros of each so you can confidently decide how you want to fill the gap in your smile moving forward. As always, we will answer any questions you have and let you know what to do (as well as what not to do) to maintain your results.
Can I Smoke After Getting a Tooth Extracted?
You might be tempted to smoke following your tooth extraction, but tobacco products can delay healing and increase your risk of dry mouth. So, it’s best that you don’t smoke for at least two weeks after your procedure. If you’ve had difficulty quitting in the past, don’t hesitate to let us know! We aren’t here to judge; we’re here to help you prepare so you can heal quickly and without any obstacles.
What Can I Do to Speed Up the Healing Time?
Rest, rest, rest! All too often, patients toss the aftercare instructions to the side because they feel better. However, even if the soreness, sensitivity, and discomfort have subsided, it’s still important that you don’t use a straw, smoke, or eat crunchy foods until you get the green light from your dentist.
Is There Anything I Shouldn’t Eat After Having a Tooth Removed?
Yes. Following your procedure, you shouldn’t eat anything crunchy or sticky, including raw nuts, hard pretzels, or caramel-filled candies. It’s also of the utmost importance that you check the temperature of anything you eat beforehand. After all, the extraction site is sensitive, and the last thing you want is to irritate the area further. Outside of that, just do your best to stick to well-balanced meals consisting of nutrient-dense foods, like cooked carrots (that are extremely soft), plain yogurt, and oatmeal.