Durham Tooth Extractions

Gently Remove Troublesome Teeth

Tooth Extractions in Durham

At Messenger Family Dentistry, we always focus on saving your natural teeth whenever possible, but sometimes an extraction is necessary. If you have a serious tooth infection that cannot be remedied with a root canal, or a wisdom tooth that is erupting improperly, removing your tooth may be a better choice. We offer straight-forward, gentle extractions and will ensure that you feel comfortable during the entire process. If you have a damaged tooth or think you may need an extraction, Dr. Messenger can help. Schedule your appointment today.

Signs That You Need

A Tooth Extraction

• If you have a seriously infected tooth, you may notice symptoms like a toothache, swelling, and discoloration around your tooth, and sensitivity to temperature. If a root canal is not enough to remove the infection, this tooth may need to be extracted.
• Tooth extraction may also be required if your wisdom teeth are not growing into your mouth properly. Wisdom teeth erupt between the ages of 17-25. Most people don’t have enough space in their mouths for this final set of molars, so they can grow into your mouth improperly, or fail to erupt completely. Signs that you may need a wisdom tooth extraction include pain in your rear teeth, jaw pain and swelling, and an unpleasant taste in your mouth.
• Tooth extractions may also sometimes be needed to prepare for other restorative treatments like dentures and dental implants, or for orthodontics work, in some cases.

The Benefits of

Tooth Extractions

A tooth extraction can help you eliminate the pain and discomfort associated with a damaged tooth. In some cases, an extraction can prevent more complications, like a fever and swelling from a severely infected tooth.
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Tooth extractions also allow you to prepare your mouth for a dental restoration such as a partial denture, dental bridge or dental implant, which will restore the natural appearance and function of your teeth.

What to Expect

The Extraction Process

Basic extractions are the most common type of extraction. First, Dr. Messenger will numb your mouth to ensure you stay comfortable. She will use specialized dental tools to loosen the tooth loose in its socket, then remove it by the root. After this, the area will be cleaned, disinfected, and sutured shut.

Aftercare & Recovery

Post-Extraction Healing

After your treatment, it’s very important to follow Dr. Messenger’s instructions to ensure your extraction site heals properly. She will provide you with a comprehensive set of instructions to follow during this process. You will usually experience some slight bruising, discomfort, and bleeding for the first 2-3 days after your procedure. It takes about 7-10 days for your mouth to heal.