Sometimes a tooth becomes so damaged that it has to be removed. Tooth decay, gum disease, and traumatic injuries are a few of the reasons a tooth must be removed. In some instances, a baby tooth doesn’t fall out and has to be removed. These conditions not only cause a lot of pain but left untreated, could result in further tooth loss and gum diseases. In most cases, the sooner the affected tooth is removed, the better.
The Dental Space provides safe and pain-free tooth extractions in San Marcos, TX, to patients of all ages.
The Tooth Extraction Procedure
Teeth are removed in a procedure called a tooth extraction. Local anesthesia is applied to the site before the procedure begins. Once the area is numbed, a special instrument is used to gently remove the tooth. After it has been removed, the site of the tooth extraction is thoroughly cleaned to prevent infection.
Except for some mild pain and swelling in the hours immediately following the procedure, patients generally don’t suffer any side effects after undergoing tooth extraction. What pain there is can be managed through over-the-counter medications.
Replacing That Missing Tooth
You’ve gotten rid of the bad tooth — now you need a new tooth! It’s important to replace that missing tooth as soon as possible after extraction. Replacing that missing tooth doesn’t just fill in a gap in your smile. A missing tooth can affect the function of your mouth. The missing space can cause the surrounding teeth to start shifting in position. This can result in crooked, damaged teeth.
Chief dentist Dr. Michael McCartor can fill in the gap left by the missing tooth with a partial removable denture that looks just like the original. Partial removable dentures are custom designed to match the shape and appearance of the tooth that was removed. You won’t be able to tell the difference between the denture and your real teeth. Our patients are astounded by the results!
Prevent the Need for Tooth Extractions with Regular Dental Exams in San Marcos TX
Regular dental examinations are a good way to prevent the kinds of problems that make a tooth extraction necessary. For instance, if tooth decay is diagnosed in its earliest stages, only the diseased area of the tooth may have to be removed. The diseased portion of the tooth can then be filled in, without the need for extracting the tooth.
At The Dental Space, we try to make going to the dentist as stress-free as possible. Our patient waiting areas are full of large-screen TVs and arcade games; in our state-of-the-art dental suites, patients can relax and listen to music or watch a favorite movie on a small-screen TV while undergoing their procedure. We use the latest techniques and equipment, as well as appropriate pain management, to make your experience as pain and stress-free as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions About San Marcos Dentist Visits
Does The Dental Space Take Insurance?
Yes. At this time we take most PPO plans, as well as CHIP and Medicaid. We do not take HMO plans at this time.
Should I Still Make a Dentist Check-Up Appointment if My Teeth Feel Fine?
Even if you do not have any specific dental problems, it is important to see a dentist regularly to catch any problems that you may not have noticed. This could prevent you from needing to see a dentist for more serious issues.
What Is a Cavity?
When a tooth decays, it develops a hole called a cavity. Over time, cavities can get bigger, leading to infections inside the tooth. You may experience tooth sensitivity and pain if there is a cavity, and if it becomes too big, your dentist may need to remove the tooth. If you suspect a cavity, see your dentist immediately!
Is it Necessary to Replace My Toothbrush Regularly?
You will wear out your toothbrush over time, especially if you’re brushing your teeth twice daily for two minutes each. Adults and children should change their toothbrushes every three months. Rinse your toothbrush after use with hot water to kill germs on the bristles and keep it clean. Immediately replace your toothbrush after being sick.
Schedule Your Next Dental Checkup at The Dental Space
The Dental Space is rapidly becoming one of San Marcos TX’s most popular family dentistry clinics. We serve patients of all ages — even as young as six months. If it’s been a while since you’ve seen the dentist, contact us online or call us today at 512-667-9770 to schedule an appointment to see Dr. McCartor. We always welcome new patients.
The Dental Space is located at 1101 Thorpe Ln, Suite 101, in San Marcos, TX. We serve patients in San Marcos and surrounding communities, including Redwood, Maxwell, Wimberley, Kyle, and Reedville. We accept most forms of dental insurance and provide patients with a wide range of payment options.