Tooth Extraction Specialist

Why do I need my tooth extracted?

The dentists at Brilliant Smiles Bellevue do everything possible to save your tooth before deciding on extraction, but even if extraction is required, the process is relatively painless thanks to modern dentistry.

There are many reasons why Dr. Barron or Dr. Chi may recommend a tooth extraction, including:

• Impacted wisdom teeth
• Tooth decay or infection
• A badly broken tooth that can’t be saved
• Nerve damage in a tooth
• Crowded teeth

How is my tooth extracted?

A tooth extraction is performed at the Brilliant Smiles Bellevue office by Dr. Barron or Dr. Chi, assisted by a skilled team of dental professionals. The procedure doesn’t last long and entails:

X-Rays

The dentist first needs to get an accurate assessment of your problem tooth to plan the best way to remove it safely and with as little discomfort as possible.

Numbing

The dentist numbs the problem tooth and the surrounding area (gums and bone) with a general anesthetic. If you experience excessive anxiety or fear during dental work, Dr. Barron uses sedation dentistry to ensure that you’re completely relaxed throughout the entire procedure.

Extraction

To extract your tooth, the dentist uses the tool right for the job, which may be an “elevator” or “extraction forceps.” Thanks to the numbing, you may feel slight pressure, but you won’t feel any pain.

What do I do after the extraction?

The aftercare of a tooth extraction is extremely important to ward off infection and prevent complications. Dr. Barron or Dr. Chi sends you home with a complete list of instructions, which typically include:

• Recommendations for over-the-counter pain medications to alleviate any discomfort
• Gauze pads to reduce bleeding and encourage blood clotting
• Icing
• Eating soft foods
• Rest

If you follow the doctor’s recommendations, you will recover quickly and get back to your daily activities in just a day or two.

Should I get a replacement tooth?

Whether you replace the extracted tooth depends on what tooth is taken out. For example, if the doctor removes a wisdom tooth, you don’t need to get a replacement tooth. If, however, the extraction poses a functional or aesthetic problem, Dr. Barron or Dr. Chi reviews options for replacement with you and sets up a schedule to get it done as quickly as possible.