Dr. Vernon Sheen of The Annapolis Center for Dental Health and Wellness offers tooth extractions as well as wisdom teeth removal for his patients. For patients of record needing a tooth extraction in Annapolis, MD, please contact our office to schedule a consultation.
During this appointment, our dentist in Annapolis, MD will evaluate the tooth and make treatment recommendations as well as replacement tooth options if needed. Tooth extraction treatment is part of general dentistry services. Removing problem teeth can prevent the spread of infection or damage to other teeth.
New patients should contact our office to schedule an appointment or a new patient exam to discuss their dental concerns.
Tooth Extraction in Annapolis, MD
If you have tooth pain or severe tooth decay, it may seem like the best solution is to remove the tooth. In most cases, however, it is better to preserve the natural tooth. Dr. Sheen can do this with treatments like a root canal or restorative dentistry.
Replacing the Extracted Tooth
If you require a tooth extraction in Annapolis, you will need to replace the tooth. In the past, the option available was a dental bridge to replace the tooth. A dental implant-supported dental crown offers the most natural replacement option and is better for your oral health.
A bridge will require a reduction of the healthy adjacent teeth to secure it. An implant-supported crown will only replace the tooth that is lost and will not harm the surrounding teeth. Replacing the tooth will an implant will help to preserve bone structure, promote better gum health and prevent remaining teeth from shifting.
For patients with severe dental issues that may require all their teeth to be extracted, Dr. Sheen also offers dental implant-supported dentures. This type of teeth replacement will offer the patient a better quality of life when compared to a traditional denture.
Learn more about dental implants:
- What Are Dental Implants?
- Benefits of Dental Implants
- Dental Implants FAQs
- Cost of Dental Implants
- Dental Implant Process
- Single Dental Implant
- Multiple Dental Implants
- Dental Implants vs. Dentures
Wisdom Teeth Removal
If you need to have your wisdom teeth removed, Dr. Sheen can make a referral for a local oral surgeon. The first step is to make an appointment with Dr. Sheen for a consultation. We will examine the teeth and take any necessary x-rays or other imaging.
If Dr. Sheen determines that the wisdom teeth should be extracted, he will make the referral and see you post-op for follow-up examinations.
Dr. Sheen and our staff will make every effort to ensure that you are relaxed and comfortable and understand each step in the tooth extraction process. We will apply a local anesthetic to completely numb the area.
Dr. Sheen will gently rock the tooth back and forth and release the supporting ligaments before gently sliding the tooth out of its socket. During the procedure, most patients will experience mild pressure in the area around the tooth.
If there has been acute pain due to infection in or around the tooth, the extraction should relieve your pain almost immediately.
We will clean the empty socket and fill it with gauze to promote healing. Our helpful staff will provide you with post-treatment care instructions to help avoid complications such as dry socket.
If you experience sudden or sharp pain, renewed bleeding, or increased swelling, you must contact our office right away so that we can advise you on how to proceed.
Tooth Extraction FAQs
Are tooth extractions painful?
No, most tooth extractions and wisdom teeth removals are not painful processes. We utilize local anesthesia so that you do not feel pain during the process. Your dental care team will be attentive and responsive to your discomfort, if any. Do not hesitate to let your dentist know that you are in discomfort so that we can make adjustments and make sure you are fully comfortable.
Is wisdom teeth removal necessary?
Only a small percentage of the American population can live a full life with wisdom teeth. Many young patients who leave their wisdom teeth unaddressed come back later with issues such as tooth pain, tooth crowding, and more. Dentists always recommend removing wisdom teeth as soon as possible to prevent more costly procedures and issues down the road.
Will removing one tooth affect the alignment of my other teeth?
Yes, removing a tooth can cause nearby teeth to shift over time. The surrounding teeth may tilt or move into the empty space, which can affect your bite and jaw alignment. Replacing the missing tooth with a bridge, implant, or partial denture helps prevent this. Your dentist will discuss the best option to maintain proper alignment.
What signs of infection should I look out for after extraction?
Watch for increasing pain, swelling, pus, a bad taste, or fever. Redness or warmth in the area or difficulty opening your mouth can also be signs. If any of these occur, contact your dentist right away. Early treatment helps prevent complications.
Can wisdom teeth come in without needing removal?
Yes, some people have enough space for their wisdom teeth to come in straight and healthy. Removal may be unnecessary if the teeth are fully erupted, easy to clean, and don’t affect your bite or other teeth. Your dentist will monitor their position with X-rays to decide if removal is needed.
Can you replace an extracted tooth?
Yes. Sometimes your dentist will need to remove a tooth in the “smile zone”. Your dentist may recommend a dental implant for the best natural-looking result. We will explain all of your options in detail and give you time to decide without pressure.