Tooth Extractions in Middlebury, VT

While dentist Dr. Brian Saltzman makes every attempt to save and preserve your natural teeth, there are cases in which a tooth or teeth might have to be taken out. A simple extraction removes a tooth that is visible over the gums. This is generally used for a tooth that's decayed or damaged beyond repair. A surgical extraction removes a tooth that has not erupted above the gums. Surgical extractions are most commonly performed to take out the wisdom teeth and impacted teeth that do not have enough space to fit into your smile. No matter the reason for having an extraction in Lincoln Peak Dental, our team will give you the best treatment. Our Middlebury, VT office offers multiple sedation methods to help you remain calm and comfortable throughout your procedure. Contact our staff for more information or to schedule an exam with Dr. Saltzman to improve your oral health.

If your tooth was broken or damaged from decay, Dr. Saltzman will make every attempt to fix it using a crown, dental bonding, or a filling. However, a tooth might be too far into decay and will have to be extracted to prevent the damage from spreading and to save the health of the remaining teeth. You may also require a simple or surgical extraction to remove teeth, that cannot fit in your mouth, such as the wisdom teeth. In children, infant teeth that haven't fallen out naturally may have to get pulled so that they don't obstruct the permanent teeth. If you are getting orthodontics or considering Invisalign® clear aligners, then you might require a simple extraction to make space for other teeth when they move into their normal place.

Dental extractions are performed in our office using local anesthesia to numb the area around the tooth being worked on. Other forms of sedation could be used depending on the degree of the extraction and also to help keep you relaxed if you have some dental anxieties. When you're prepared, Dr. Saltzman will start the procedure. To complete a simple extraction, Dr. Saltzman will loosen up the tooth using a special device called an elevator. A surgical extraction entails making incisions in your gums to get to the tooth. If needed, the tooth may be broken into smaller pieces so it can be removed. When the tooth is removed, Dr. Saltzman will stitch the incision in the gums. We may prescribe antibiotics that need to be taken prior to and following the process — in case you've got a current infection, if your immune system is weak, if the process is extended, or if you have some other specific health conditions.

Depending on the sedation used throughout your extraction, you may be required to have an adult drive you home. As your gums heal, you need to avoid smoking, using straws, and spitting. Your recovery will vary depending on the complexity of your dental extraction, but most patients should eat soft, room-temperature food for at least a couple of days following the extraction. Dr. Saltzman will talk to you regarding what is normal as you recover and the best ways to care for your mouth. Your mouth will probably be inflamed after the extraction, so a cold compresses or over-the-counter pain medication can be useful. In some cases, Dr. Saltzman can give you a written prescription for pain medication and/or antibiotics. In addition to any proposed follow-up visits, you should continue to schedule appointments at Lincoln Peak Dental for dental examinations and cleanings so Dr. Saltzman can monitor your health after an extraction.

A tooth extraction is generally covered by dental insurance, but your sedation method may not be fully covered. Prior to your procedure, we'll contact your insurance provider to find out your specific policy and estimate your costs. If you do not have dental insurance, Dr. Saltzman can speak with you about the numerous payments we take along with information on your payment options — we want to make it as easy as possible to get quality dental care.

When you've got a tooth that is damaged or if your mouth does not have space for a tooth, a dental extraction at Lincoln Peak Dental may be necessary in order to improve your oral health and smile. Make a consultation with dentist Dr. Brian Saltzman at his office in Middlebury, VT to find out more about simple and surgical tooth extractions, including wisdom-tooth extractions.