Tooth Extractions Rio Rancho, NM

If your tooth is badly damaged and cannot be restored, our skilled dentist may recommend a tooth extraction to remove it from your mouth and begin the process of restoring your oral health.

When is Tooth Extraction Recommended?

Tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth from its socket in the jawbone. At Mountain View Dentistry, we consider extraction as a last resort; however, certain circumstances can make it the best course of action for maintaining or improving your oral health. The most common reasons for recommending a tooth extraction include:

• Severe infection that may have damaged the tooth and surrounding bone structure beyond repair, risking further health complications.
• Extensive decay where the tooth is so compromised that restoration attempts would not be feasible or effective.
• Crowding, when there is insufficient space in your mouth to accommodate all your teeth, which may interfere with the alignment and health of your smile.
• Risk of infection, particularly in cases where a patient’s immune system is compromised, such as undergoing chemotherapy or receiving organ transplants, making even the slightest risk unacceptable.

Our dentist and team are committed to discussing all available options with you and ensuring you understand why tooth extraction may be necessary.

The Tooth Extraction Procedure

Our team uses precise techniques to make your extraction as smooth and painless as possible. When you receive a tooth extraction, you can expect:

1. Pre-Procedure Examination: First, we perform a thorough examination, which may include X-rays to determine the best approach for removing the tooth.
2. Anesthesia: To ensure your comfort, we administer a local anesthetic to numb the area around the tooth. Sedation options are also available for patients who experience dental anxiety.
3. Extraction: Using specialized tools, our dentist will gently rock the tooth back and forth to loosen it from the jaw bone and ligaments. Once loose, the tooth is removed carefully from the socket.
4. Post-Procedure Care: Immediately following the extraction, a small amount of bleeding is normal. A gauze pad placed over the socket will help limit bleeding and aid in clot formation.

Post-Extraction Recovery

Proper care after a tooth extraction is crucial for healing and can help prevent complications such as infection or dry socket. Here are key steps to follow during the recovery period:

• Bite on Gauze: Maintain pressure by biting on the gauze pad for at least 30-45 minutes after the extraction to help stop the bleeding.
• Avoid Certain Activities: For the next 24 hours, avoid vigorous rinsing, using a straw or smoking, which can impede the healing process.
• Pain Management: Use ice packs to reduce swelling and take any prescribed pain medication as directed.
• Eat Soft Foods: Stick to a diet of soft foods like yogurt, soup and applesauce for the first few days. Gradually reintroduce solid foods as the extraction site heals.
• Oral Hygiene: Continue brushing and flossing your teeth, but avoid the extraction site for a few days to prevent irritation while it is healing. 

Make An Appointment

For more detailed information on tooth extraction in Rio Rancho, New Mexico, and set up a consultation with Dr. Duane Marshall, please contact our office at 505-867-1442. Our team is dedicated to providing you with a comfortable experience and helping you recover swiftly to restore your smile.