Extractions in Katy, TX

While the skilled dental professionals at MINT dentistry make every effort to save and preserve your natural teeth, there are cases where a tooth or teeth may need to be extracted. A simple extraction removes a tooth that is visible above the gumline. This is typically used for a tooth that is damaged or decayed beyond repair. A surgical extraction removes a tooth or teeth that have not erupted above the gumline. Surgical extractions are most 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 your need for a tooth extraction, MINT dentistry's experienced team will give you the care you need. Our office in Houston, TX offers different sedation techniques, such as nitrous oxide and oral conscious sedation, so you remain calm and comfortable during your procedure. Contact our team to schedule an exam that will help us determine if you need a simple or surgical dental extraction.

If your tooth has been broken or damaged from decay, our dental team will make every effort to repair it with a crown, dental bonding, or filling. However, if these efforts are unsuccessful or the damage is too severe, you may be a candidate for tooth extraction. You may also need a dental extraction 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 that have not fallen out on their own may need to be pulled so they don't block the permanent teeth. If you are getting orthodontics, like traditional braces or Invisalign^®, you may need a tooth pulled to make room for others as they move into their proper position.

Dental extractions are performed in our advanced facility under anesthesia to offer supreme comfort while your tooth or teeth are being removed. The form of sedation used depends on the extent of the procedure and whether you have any dental anxieties. Before the procedure is initiated, you will be allowed a few moments to relax in a massaging treatment chair within one of our well-appointed procedure rooms. Once 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 reach the tooth. If needed, the tooth may be broken into smaller pieces, so it can be removed more easily. Once the tooth is removed, we will close the incision in your gums.

Depending on the method of sedation used during your extraction, you may need to be picked up by a responsible friend or family member. A MINT dentistry professional will provide you with specific instructions, including things to avoid during your recovery. Your instructions will vary depending on the complexity of your extraction, but most patients prefer to eat soft, cool food for the first few days after the extraction. Your mouth may be swollen after the extraction, so we recommend cold compresses and over-the-counter pain medication. In some cases, we may write you a prescription for pain medication and antibiotics. In addition to any suggested follow-up appointments, you should continue to schedule dental exams and cleanings at MINT dentistry in Houston, TX, so our team can monitor your oral health after an extraction.

A tooth extraction is usually covered in part by dental insurance; however, different sedation methods may or may not be fully covered. Before your procedure, we will contact your insurance company to determine your coverage and estimate your out-of-pocket costs. If you don't have dental insurance, our support staff can help you understand how to better afford your dental care with the MINT Discount Plan, medical financing, and accepting multiple payment methods. Speak with a member of the MINT dentistry team for more information.

Whether you have a tooth that is damaged or you don't have room for a new tooth, a dental extraction at MINT dentistry can help improve your smile and oral health. Schedule an appointment with a member of the MINT dentistry team at our beautiful facility in Houston, TX to learn more about dental extractions, both simple and surgical. If you have dental anxieties or fears, ask about sedation options to help keep you relaxed during your procedure.