When a toothache arises, it is important that you don’t take it lightly. A toothache is often a sign of a serious problem that might require immediate dental work. The team of Drs of Smiles Gentle Family Dentistry believe in helping patients achieve oral health and wellness, and a toothache may significantly change their situation.
What causes my toothache?
The cause of a toothache may vary. For some patients, a toothache is caused by a large area of decay that has greatly impacted the structure of the tooth. It can cause an infection when it reaches the inner dental pulp, which is the mass of tissues inside of the tooth canals. In situations such as this, root canal therapy might be an option to save the tooth. For others, permanent extraction may be the only choice available.
What type of extractions are performed at this Mesa, AZ practice?
There are two types of extractions that might be performed for a patient, including “simple” extraction and “surgical” extraction. A simple extraction is best described as the removal of a tooth that has already erupted through the gumline and can be pulled out manually by the dentist from the bone of the jaw. This is the least invasive way to remove a tooth and patients can heal within a few days. Surgical extraction, however, is more invasive. It requires proper sedation and anesthetic to ensure patient comfort. The dentist will need to cut into the gum tissue to access the tooth where it is impacted inside of the jaw. Stitches are needed and patients will need to allow for a few weeks to recovery, while also enjoying softer foods during this healing process. Patients who need to have a tooth removed will be advised as to the approach the dentist will take to achieve results.
Learn more about when tooth extraction is necessary for your smile
At Drs of Smiles Gentle Family Dentistry, our team of professionals is available to assist. Contact our Mesa, AZ practice by calling (480) 834-6991 and visit the office at 1056 South Val Vista Drive, Ste. #1. We are open to new and established patients in our practice with our team, including Drs. Scott LeSueur, Glenn LeSueur, and Charles Dodaro.