Tooth Extractions in Columbus, OH

If you have to have a tooth extracted, it can be very scary to think about, and you might wonder if simple extractions are possible or what the extraction process looks like.

At Shiflett Family Dental, though, we often find that the worst part of a tooth extraction is the anticipation beforehand. With modern anesthetics, instruments, and techniques, Dr. Shiflett is able to remove teeth quickly and comfortably, getting you back to your daily routine.

Do You Need a Tooth Extraction in Columbus, OH?

Dental extractions are performed when teeth are broken, infected, or if you are suffering from significant tooth decay and infection. At Shiflett Family Dental in Clintonville, we prefer to hold onto your natural teeth as much as possible. However, in some cases, saving a tooth is not in your best interest, and a dental extraction becomes necessary.

When there is not enough remaining tooth structure for us to fix it predictably, or when your goals do not align with keeping a broken down tooth, you may choose to have the tooth removed. Another common reason tooth extraction occurs if your wisdom teeth become a concern and need to be removed. 

Nearly every tooth extraction is a straightforward process with today's technologies, and healing time for your mouth is very quick. There are only a few possible side effects from a dental extraction; the most common is a dry socket; if you don't properly form a blood clot at the extraction site, or if the clot loosens or dissolves before the site is healed, a dry socket can form. In this case, you would need to call us immediately for treatment.

Fear of dental procedures is very common, especially for treatments like extractions or root canals. At Shiflett Family Dental, we can recommend oral medication and other aids to help you relax during the procedure. You may be fine without these aids, but those who need them are very thankful for the information.

Dr. Shiflett also takes time to walk you through each step to put your mind at ease, and he is efficient and quiet if that makes you more comfortable.

What Is the Tooth Extraction Process?

The tooth extraction process is simple and doesn't last long. We will apply anesthesia to the site and then gently loosen and remove your tooth before cleaning the site and talking to you about care instructions. That's it!

Now That My Tooth Is Gone, How Can I Replace It at Shiflett Family Dental?

There are many problems caused by a missing tooth. The most obvious is that your ability to eat and chew in that area is immediately diminished or absent. Additionally, the teeth on either side, as well as the opposing tooth, can shift to move into that space, making replacing your tooth difficult or nearly impossible. This also makes it a challenge to maintain your oral hygiene, possibly leading to periodontal disease or cavities.

When a tooth is missing, your remaining teeth must take on the additional force when chewing, eating, or speaking. The added force on these teeth will begin to break them down over time, especially if they have already been compromised by dental disease in the past. This can create a domino effect, leading to more tooth loss and more expensive dental treatment. That's why, even if you are missing a single tooth, it is important to replace your teeth as soon as possible.

The options for replacing your missing teeth are listed below. Each option is a link that will take you to a page where you can learn more about the specifics. Dr. Shiflett and the whole dental team in Clintonville will walk you through the options and help you develop a plan to replace your missing teeth so you can get back to laughing, talking, and smiling like before!

• Dental Implants
• Bridges
• Partial Dentures
• Full Dentures

To learn more about tooth extractions in Columbus, OH, or to schedule an appointment, call our dental office at (614)262-1807.