Got a painful tooth? A tooth extraction from Dr. Darryl Locklear at Locklear Dentistry may be what you need. We offer expert care in a comfortable environment. Contact us today and schedule your consultation in Greensboro, NC.
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Did you know…
Healing time after an extraction is typically 1-2 weeks.
Basic extractions
Basic extractions are the simplest type of extraction, and are done on unhealthy teeth that have fully erupted from your gums. We always try to save your teeth at Locklear Dentistry, but in some cases, it may be better to pull an unhealthy tooth and replace it with a partial denture, dental bridge, or dental implant.
Wisdom tooth extractions
If your wisdom teeth don’t emerge properly, this can cause pain, discomfort, and even a higher risk of dental infections. Not everyone needs their wisdom teeth to be removed, but we may recommend extractions if your wisdom teeth are unhealthy.
Impacted wisdom tooth extractions
If your wisdom teeth are still partially stuck in your gums (impacted), it may be necessary to extract them surgically. Rather than pulling the tooth, Dr. Locklear will need to cut it into smaller sections and extract the tooth piece-by-piece.
The Benefits of Dental Extractions
The Tooth Extraction Process
Prep and numbing
To begin the process, Dr. Locklear will clean and numb the treatment area to prepare for extraction. You can also be sedated for your comfort at Locklear Dentistry.
Basic extraction
In a basic extraction, Dr. Locklear will use a few different tools to loosen the tooth in its socket. Then, once it’s loose enough to remove, he will grab it with dental forceps and extract it. He will clean the area, stitch it shut to help it heal, and repeat the process if you need multiple extractions.
Surgical extraction
In a surgical extraction, Dr. Locklear will create a small opening in your gums near the tooth that needs to be extracted. Through this opening, he will cut the tooth into small pieces. Then, he will extract each piece of the tooth, and continue until the tooth has been fully removed. After this, Dr. Locklear will sanitize and suture the treatment site to ensure that it heals properly.
Before & Afters
A smile is worth 1,000 words.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Tooth Extractions Covered By Insurance?
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Yes. Since they are a medically necessary procedure, tooth extractions are typically covered by insurance when recommended by your dentist. Coverage limits and other details will vary based on your policy and your insurance provider, though.
What Are The Signs I Need My Wisdom Teeth Extracted?
If your wisdom teeth are not healthy, you may notice things like pain in the back of your mouth and jaw stiffness. Swollen gums, headaches, and sinus issues may also indicate that your wisdom teeth need to be extracted.
Are Tooth Extractions Painful?
During your surgery, you won’t feel any discomfort. Dr. Locklear will numb your mouth to make sure you don’t feel anything as your tooth is pulled. We also offer dental sedation to help you feel more calm and comfortable during your procedure.
You may feel some discomfort as you heal and recover, but you’ll usually feel much better within a few days. Follow the recovery instructions that Dr. Locklear gives you, and you’ll be back to normal in no time!
