Gentle Tooth Extraction through Modern Dentistry

Dr. Byron J. Nordhus always strives to preserve broken or damaged teeth through restorative dentistry. However, sometimes a tooth is beyond repair and must be removed. Tooth extraction performed at his Wichita, KS, office incorporates modern techniques to ensure your absolute comfort. He also offers immediate tooth replacement options to preserve the health and aesthetics of your smile. To learn more about our sophisticated tooth extraction techniques, contact us today. 

When is Extraction Necessary?

Typically, a tooth is extracted when trauma or decay has damaged the tooth too extensively for it to be repaired. An infected tooth can usually be saved with root canal therapy, but sometimes extraction is the best solution.

We can provide extraction for both children and adults. If a baby tooth has not fallen out naturally, and is being pushed out by a permanent tooth, it can require extraction. Less often, patients may have teeth that are crowding together, blocking new teeth from emerging. Dr. Nordhus can perform an extraction to provide relief. If your wisdom teeth (third molars) need to be removed, Dr. Nordhus will refer you to a specialist. 

What Happens during Tooth Extraction? 

With modern dentistry techniques, a tooth extraction is a simple and comfortable procedure. Dr. Nordhus will administer local anesthesia to numb the tooth and surrounding area. Depending on the complexity of the extraction, he can also provide an oral sedative, nitrous oxide, or IV sedation administered by a nurse anesthetist to help you relax.

If the tooth is fully erupted, Dr. Nordhus will be able to perform a simple extraction, gently loosening and removing the tooth. Although you may feel pressure, you will not feel any pain. If the tooth is embedded in the jawbone (impacted), Dr. Nordhus will need to make an incision to expose the tooth before removing it.

Once the tooth has been removed, gauze will be placed in the socket to control bleeding. If an incision is made, Dr. Nordhus will apply a few stitches to the extraction site.

Replacing the Extracted Tooth

Dr. Nordhus recommends replacing adult teeth after extraction. Missing teeth can cause problems with speaking and eating, and can have a negative impact on your smile. In addition, missing teeth also cause the jawbone to atrophy, or shrink. Dental implants are the only treatment that can prevent or halt jawbone atrophy.

If you are missing one tooth or several in a row, your options include placing a traditional dental bridge or an implant-supported restoration. Made of biocompatible titanium, dental implants are inserted into the jawbone and function like tooth roots. Implants can support dental bridges and crowns, as well as dentures. If a dental implant is recommended, Dr. Nordhus can place it at the same time as your extraction procedure.

Recovery and Aftercare

Dr. Nordhus will provide you with explicit aftercare instructions. These will include pain medication guidelines, and other ways to alleviate discomfort, such as applying ice.

In some cases, such as wisdom tooth removal, it is important not to dislodge the blood clot that forms in the tooth socket, so you must avoid rinsing your mouth or using a straw for 24 hours after your procedure. If you had an implant placed at the same time as the extraction, we will provide you with specific aftercare guidelines. Our friendly team is available for questions, should you have any issues or concerns.

Schedule an Appointment

Tooth extraction is a very simple, common procedure. At Nordhus Dentistry, we strive to make tooth extraction as comfortable and effective as possible. If you are experiencing dental pain or other symptoms, schedule your appointment today.