Tooth Extractions, Louisville KY
You and Dr. Shorten or Dr. Wilson may determine that you need a tooth extraction for any number of reasons. Some teeth are extracted because they are severely decayed; others may have advanced periodontal disease, or have broken in a way that cannot be repaired. Other teeth may need removal because they are poorly positioned in the mouth (such as impacted teeth), or in preparation for orthodontic treatment.
The removal of a single tooth can lead to problems related to your chewing ability, problems with your jaw joint, and shifting teeth, which can have a major impact on your dental health.
To avoid these complications, in most cases, Drs. Shorten or Wilson will discuss alternatives to extractions as well as replacement of the extracted tooth.
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The Extraction Process
At the time of extraction, the doctor will need to numb your tooth, jaw bone, and gums that surround the area with a local anesthetic.
During the extraction process, you will feel a lot of pressure. This is from the process of firmly rocking the tooth in order to widen the socket for removal.
You feel the pressure without pain as the anesthetic has numbed the nerves stopping the transference of pain, yet the nerves that transmit pressure are not profoundly affected.
If you do feel pain at any time during the extraction please let us know right away.
Sectioning a Tooth
Some teeth require sectioning. This is a very common procedure done when a tooth is so firmly anchored in its socket or the root is curved and the socket can’t expand enough to remove it. The doctor simply cuts the tooth into sections then removes each section one at a time.
After Tooth Extraction
After tooth extraction, it’s important for a blood clot to form to stop the bleeding and begin the healing process. Bite on a gauze pad for 30-45 minutes immediately after the appointment. If the bleeding or oozing still persists, place another gauze pad and bite firmly for another 30 minutes. You may have to do this several times to staunch the flow of blood.
After the blood clot forms, it is important to not disturb or dislodge the clot. Do not rinse vigorously, suck on straws, smoke, drink alcohol or brush teeth next to the extraction site for 72 hours. These activities may dislodge or dissolve the clot and hinder the healing process.
Limit vigorous exercise for the next 24 hours, as this increases blood pressure and may cause more bleeding from the extraction site.
After the tooth is extracted you may feel some pain and experience some swelling. An ice pack or an unopened bag of frozen peas or corn applied to the area will keep swelling to a minimum. Take pain medications as prescribed. The swelling usually subsides after 48 hours.
Use pain medication as directed. Call our office if the medication doesn’t seem to be working. If antibiotics are prescribed, continue to take them for the indicated length of time even if signs and symptoms of infection are gone.
Drink lots of fluids and eat nutritious, soft food on the day of the extraction. You can eat normally as soon as you are comfortable.
It is important to resume your normal dental routine after 24 hours. This should include brushing and flossing your teeth at least once a day. This will speed healing and help keep your mouth fresh and clean.
After a few days you should feel fine and can resume your normal activities. If you have heavy bleeding, severe pain, continued swelling for 2-3 days, or a reaction to the medication, call our office immediately.
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Springhurst Family and Cosmetic Dentistry
Patient Review by David S
Great Staff, Very friendly and professional!
- David S
Patient Review by Jack B
I was totally impressed with this dental practice. This office has all of the cutting edge dental technology. You can tell this office prides themselves in patient care. I will definitely be returning to allow Dr. Jury to take care of all of my dental needs. I didn't know these kinds of dental offices exist.
- Jack B
Patient Review by Walter B
Have enjoyed the best and brightest general practitioners, endodontists, and periodontists, in the dental field from Florida, N.C. to Louisville, for more years than I can count. My research for dental assistance in Louisville, after moving here in 2016, proved again to be most beneficial. I met with Dr. Shorten of Springhurst Dentistry and was amazed at his expertise, efficiency, and professionalism. My kind of Dentist. He does it all. And the staff is nothing less than would be expected. Perfection is their norm. Enjoy. It doesn't get better if you need dental assistance.
- Walter B
Patient Review by Bailey S
Overall, staff is very professional and always has the best interest for what I need. The atmosphere is great and I always feel welcome and I've never been treated with anything less of what is expected.
- Bailey S
Patient Review by Helen P
This dental office is fantastic.
- Helen P
Patient Review by Larry B
As long as Dr. Shorten continues to practice I will be his patient. I will also continue to recommend this office to my family and friends. Best decision I have ever made to trust Dr. Shorten. Not only is this a great office they treat me like part of the family. You should definitely TRUST this office with your overall dental care.
- Larry B
Patient Review by Lori
I will be recommending Springhurst Family Dentistry to family & friends. The office, staff, and both Dr. Shorten and Dr. Jury are exceptional at what they do.
- Lori
Patient Review by Eric W
Office is second to none.
- Eric W
Patient Review by Robert N
This office is wonderful. I am so happy to have found Dr. Shorten and his staff.
- Robert N
Patient Review by Michelle S
This was a wonderful experience - thank you to Doctor and Staff!
- Michelle S
Patient Review by Eric S
I had excellent experience. I had received on of Dr. Shorten's newsletters in my mailbox, read the article about the CEREC Crown process (crown in one visit), called and make the appointment. I will continue to be a patient of Dr. Shorten and my family is switching as well.
- Eric S