Extractions in Southwest Houston

While the skilled dental professionals at MINT dentistry try to repair the health of your teeth, it is possible you will need one or more teeth extracted. A simple extraction removes a tooth that is visible above the gumline. This is usually used for a tooth that is damaged or decayed beyond repair. A surgical extraction removes a tooth or teeth that are still below the gumline. Surgical extractions are commonly used to remove the wisdom teeth and impacted teeth that do not have enough room to fit into your smile. Whatever the reason is for an extraction, MINT dentistry's team will give you professional care. Our office in Houston, TX offers multiple sedation options, including nitrous oxide and oral conscious sedation, so you remain relaxed during your procedure. Contact our team for more information or to schedule an exam so we can determine if you need an extraction using either the simple or surgical technique.

If your tooth has been infected or damaged, your dentist will first try to fix it with a crown or tooth-colored filling. However, if these efforts are unsuccessful or the damage is too severe, you may be a candidate for tooth extraction. Dental extractions may also be needed to remove teeth that cannot fit in your mouth. This includes your third molars, also known as wisdom teeth, which develop around the ages of 17 – 21 years old. In older children, baby teeth can be extracted if they haven't fallen out on their own so the adult teeth aren't blocked. If you are getting orthodontics, like traditional braces or Invisalign^®, we may recommend the extraction of one or more teeth to make room for others as they as the treatment aligns your bite.

Dental extractions are performed in our modern facility under anesthesia to make sure you are comfortable. We may recommend adding a sedation method depending on the extent of the procedure and to alleviate any anxiety. Before the procedure, you will be allowed a few moments to relax in a comfortable treatment chair within our well-equipped procedure room. As soon as you are ready, we will begin the extraction. For a simple extraction, one of our highly qualified dentists will use advanced techniques and cutting-edge tools to gently remove the tooth. A surgical extraction will begin with a MINT dentist making incisions in your gums to the tooth. If needed, the tooth may be broken into smaller pieces, which will make it easier to remove. Once the tooth is removed, we will close the incision.

If you received sedation during your procedure, you may need to be picked up by a responsible friend or family member. Your team will provide you with specific instructions to keep you comfortable during your recovery. Your instructions will vary depending on the complexity of your extraction treatment plan, but most patients prefer to eat soft, cool food for the first few days after the extraction. Swelling and inflammation in your mouth and lower face are common after an extraction, so we recommend cold compresses and over-the-counter pain medication. If needed, we may write you a prescription for pain medication and antibiotics. In addition to any suggested follow-up appointments, you should continue to schedule cleanings at least twice a year at MINT dentistry in Houston, TX, so our team can help maintain the health of your teeth.

A simple or surgical extraction is typically covered in part by dental insurance; however, your coverage will vary for any sedation needed. Once we have created your extraction treatment plan, we will reach out to your insurance company to confirm your specific coverage and estimate your out-of-pocket costs. If you don't have insurance, our team can help you understand how to better afford your treatment with the MINT Discount Plan, low-interest financing, and accepting several payment methods. Ask a member of the MINT dentistry team for information.

If you have a tooth that is damaged or you don't have room for a new tooth, a dental extraction at MINT dentistry can improve your smile and oral health. Schedule an exam and consultation at our state-of-the-art facility in Houston, TX to learn more about dental extractions, both simple and surgical. MINT dentistry also offers multiple sedation options if you have dental fears or anxieties to help keep you relaxed during your extraction.