Tooth Extractions in Midland, MI

While experienced dentist Dr. Daniel Clement makes every effort to conserve 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 normally used for a tooth that is damaged or decayed beyond repair. A surgical extraction removes a tooth that has not erupted above the gumline. Surgical extractions are most commonly done to remove the wisdom teeth that do not have enough room to fit into your mouth. No matter the reason for having a tooth extraction at Great Lakes Bay Dental, Dr. Clement will treat you with the best possible care. Our Midland, MI office offers different sedation techniques, like nitrous oxide and oral-conscious sedation, allowing you to remain comfortable and calm during your procedure. Contact our team to learn more or to schedule an assessment with Dr. Clement to boost your oral health.

If your tooth has been broken or damaged from decay, Dr. Clement will make every effort to repair it with a crown, dental bonding, or a filling. However, a tooth may be too damaged and will need to be extracted to prevent the damage from spreading — and to save the health of the remaining teeth. You could also need an extraction to remove teeth that can't fit in your mouth. This includes your third molars, commonly known as wisdom teeth, that develop around the ages of 17 – 21. In older children, baby teeth that have not fallen out naturally may need to be pulled so they don't block the permanent teeth. If you are getting braces or considering Invisalign, you may also need an extraction to make room for other teeth as they move into their proper positions.

Extractions are performed in our office with local anesthesia to numb the area around the tooth being treated. Other kinds of sedation might be used, depending on the extent of the procedure and to help keep you relaxed if you have any dental anxieties. As soon as you are ready, Dr. Clement will begin the procedure. To complete a simple extraction, he will loosen the tooth with a special device known as an elevator before removing the tooth. A surgical extraction involves making incisions in your gums to reach the tooth. If needed, the tooth might be broken into smaller pieces so it can be removed. Once the tooth is removed, Dr. Clement will stitch the incision in the gums. Following your procedure, he can prescribe antibiotics that should be taken before and after the process in the case that you have a current infection, if your immune system is weak, if the procedure is prolonged, or if you have other specific medical conditions.

Depending on the sedation used during your extraction, you may need to have an adult drive you home afterward. While your mouth heals, you should avoid smoking, using straws, and spitting. Your recovery process will vary based on the extent of your dental extraction, but most patients choose to eat soft, cool food for the first few days after the extraction. Dr. Clement or a member of his team will talk to you about what to expect during your recovery and the best ways to look after your mouth. Your mouth will likely be swollen after the extraction so he may recommend cold compresses and over-the-counter pain medication. In some cases, he may also write you a prescription for pain medication and antibiotics. Besides any suggested follow-up visits, you should continue to schedule appointments at Great Lakes Bay Dental for dental examinations and cleanings so Dr. Clement can monitor your dental health after an extraction.

A tooth extraction is usually covered by dental insurance, but your sedation method may or may not be fully covered. Before your procedure, we will contact your insurance provider to ascertain your specific coverage and estimate your out-of-pocket costs. If you don't have dental insurance, Dr. Clement can talk to you about the many payment methods we accept, along with information on medical financing.

If you have a tooth that's damaged, or if your mouth doesn't have room for a new or old tooth, a dental extraction at Great Lakes Bay Dental can help by improving your oral health and smile. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Clement at his dental office in Midland, MI to learn more about simple and surgical tooth extractions. If you have dental anxieties or fears, ask about sedation methods to help keep you calm and relaxed during your procedure.