4921 State St 26 E #100, Lafayette, IN 47905
Tooth Extraction to Protect Your Smile
Tooth extraction, or tooth removal, is necessary in some cases to return you to good oral health. Dr. Shane T. Cope and Dr. Melinda Bodine, your skilled dentists at Highland Creek Family Dental, may recommend tooth extraction for certain cases where the original structure of the tooth is not salvageable. If you think you may need a tooth extraction in Lafayette, Indiana, we invite you to contact us today. We are dedicated to helping you improve your oral health!
Comfortable Tooth Extraction You Can Trust
Tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth. While we strive to avoid the need to remove a tooth whenever possible, certain conditions may make tooth extraction the most effective option for returning your smile to good health and function. Following your tooth extraction in Lafayette, we are happy to provide you with one of our excellent tooth replacement treatments to restore your smile to optimal health, beauty and function.
When Tooth Extraction is Necessary
Several conditions may necessitate tooth extraction. Among these are:
- Severe infection that has destroyed a significant portion of the tooth and supporting bone structure
- Serious decay that has damaged a tooth beyond repair, making a successful restoration impossible
- Crowding caused by too many teeth to properly fit in the mouth
Our dentists and team use great care and skill when performing a tooth extraction to ensure that your experience is as comfortable and painless as possible. We will also provide you with detailed post-treatment care instructions so that you can properly take care of your smile as it heals. For more information on tooth extraction in Lafayette and to schedule your personalized consultation at our friendly dental office, we invite you to call or visit us today. We are committed to improving your smile!
FAQs About Tooth Extractions
Q. Will I feel pain during the extraction?
A. Extractions are performed using local anesthesia to numb the area completely. Sedation options are also available if you prefer a more relaxed experience. You may feel some pressure, but you shouldn’t experience pain during the procedure.
Q. How long does it take to recover?
A. Mild swelling and tenderness are common for a few days following an extraction. Most people recover within a week, though healing for wisdom teeth or surgical extractions may take a bit longer.
Q. Can I drive myself home after the procedure?
A. If you receive IV or oral sedation, you’ll need a trusted adult to accompany you and drive you home afterward. For procedures using only local anesthesia, you can typically drive yourself.
Q. What happens if I don’t replace a missing tooth?
A. Leaving an empty space can cause surrounding teeth to shift, affect your bite, and contribute to bone loss over time. Your provider will review replacement options such as implants or bridges to help maintain proper alignment and function.
Q. Will my dental insurance cover tooth extraction?
A. Many PPO dental insurance plans include partial coverage for necessary tooth extractions. Our team can review your benefits, estimate your out-of-pocket costs, and assist with financing if needed.