What Happens After a Tooth Extraction?

Have a nagging toothache? Before asking your dentist at Innovative Smiles, to pull that pesky tooth, find out what happens after a tooth extraction. It’s probably not as simple as you think. For instance, you can’t really leave an empty space behind because that could leave you susceptible to bone loss. And replacing an extracted tooth with an implant or partial denture can be a bit complicated. Are you willing to see it through?

A better plan of attack may be to ask your dentist what they recommend. After examining your mouth and performing the necessary diagnostic tests, they may find that extraction is the best solution or suggest a different treatment option. If an extraction is needed, here’s what you need to know regarding what comes next.

Dental Bridges

A dental bridge may be a good solution for filling the hole left behind by an extracted tooth. Bridges keep surrounding teeth from shifting to fill the hole. This helps preserve the appearance of your smile. A dental bridge looks like your natural teeth. It’s designed with an artificial tooth in the middle, held in place by two crowns that fit neatly over the adjacent teeth. This is called a traditional dental bridge. Depending on your specific needs, your dentist may also recommend a cantilever, Maryland, or implant-supported bridge.

Dental Implants

The dental implant procedure is a bit more complicated because the artificial tooth is held in place by a post that has been implanted into the jawbone beneath your gums. Dental implants may be good solutions for patients who lack healthy teeth next to their extraction. Because implants anchor directly into the bone, there’s no need for crowns or metal wings to hold them in place.

The popularity of dental implants is growing all the time because they’re a pleasingly aesthetic choice that requires little more than regular brushing and flossing to look and function well.

Dentures

Full or partial dentures may also be good options for replacing one or more teeth you’ve had extracted. To find out which solution is best following a tooth extraction at Innovative Smiles, call today to schedule a consultation and full dental exam.