Tooth Extractions in Louisville, KY

Our board-certified dentists will always do their best to preserve your natural teeth, however, there are some cases where a tooth extraction can benefit your oral health. Simple extractions are performed to remove a tooth that has erupted from the gums. This type of extraction is usually offered for a tooth that is irreparably damaged. However, a surgical extraction removes a tooth or teeth that have not erupted from the gums, such as your third molars. Whatever your reason for needing an oral extraction, our knowledgeable staff at MINT dentistry will make sure that you feel comfortable and cared for. Our office in Louisville, KY offers several different sedation approaches, like laughing gas and oral sedation, so you remain relaxed throughout the extraction process. Contact our dental practice to get more information or schedule an exam to determine if you could benefit from a tooth extraction.

Your MINT dentist may initially recommend a tooth-colored filling or dental crown if a tooth is severely damaged. However, if these treatments are ineffective, a tooth extraction may be recommended. Individuals may also need an oral extraction to remove teeth that cannot easily fit into their smile, such as wisdom teeth, which typically develop around 17 – 21 years old. At a certain point, primary teeth that have yet to loosen may need to be removed to create space for their permanent replacements. If you are getting traditional metal braces or Invisalign® aligner trays, an extraction may be needed to make space as your remaining teeth move into their proper position.

A tooth extraction will be performed at our modern Louisville, KY practice with customized sedation techniques to keep you comfortable throughout the treatment. The kind of sedation we give you will depend on the type of tooth extraction procedure you need and whether or not you have any pre-existing dental care insecurities. Before the extraction starts, our caring team will make sure that you're comfortable. Once you're ready, our team will carry out the treatment. For a simple tooth extraction, one of our dentists will use precise techniques and medical tools to gently remove the tooth or teeth. A surgical extraction will begin with our team making an opening in your gums to access the affected tooth. In some situations, the tooth will be cut into smaller pieces, making it easier to extract. When the compromised teeth are extracted, we will stitch the incision.

The type of sedation utilized during your procedure will determine if you need to be driven home by a trusted adult. Our team will provide you with specific guidelines to optimize your healing. Your instructions will be based on the technique used for your dental extraction; however, most patients prefer to stick to soft, cool food for the first few days after the operation. Your mouth may look puffy and feel uncomfortable after a dental extraction, so we recommend using cool compresses and over-the-counter aspirin. When appropriate, we may write you a prescription for pain medication and antibiotics. In addition to any recommended check-up appointments, you will need to schedule biannual cleanings and yearly exams at our MINT dentistry center in Louisville, KY, so our dentists can keep monitoring the condition of your smile.

Most insurance policies typically cover a portion of simple or surgical extraction costs, but the sedation methods used during the procedure might not be covered. Following your appointment, our team will contact your insurance provider to find out your specific coverage and calculate any remaining balance. For those who don't have insurance, our team will help you understand how to cover your treatment with simple payment methods or healthcare financing.

Whether you have a severely damaged tooth or need to create space for orthodontics, a tooth extraction can benefit the overall health of your mouth. Book an oral exam with a member of our team at our modern MINT dentistry practice in Louisville, KY to learn more about tooth removals and the type of extractions we perform. Our highly trained team works to ensure that you're at ease and help you enjoy the glowing smile of your dreams.