Tooth Extractions Washington DC & Alexandria VA
Tooth Extraction Washington DC & Alexandria VA
When teeth become damaged or begin to decay, the issue may be corrected with a filling; however, when a tooth suffers extreme damage, either due to decay, accident, or injury, it may be necessary for the tooth to be extracted. With the exception of wisdom teeth, tooth extraction is a procedure that is typically avoided if at all possible, but if your periodontist has recommended you have a tooth extracted, it is because they have
determined that extracting our tooth will do the most amount of good for your overall oral health.
At Precision Periodontics and Implant Dentistry, our specialty trained periodontists Dr. Justin Zalewsky and Dr. Antara Daru have years of experience treating a wide range of stages of gum disease and placing dental implants. To learn more about tooth extractions, our clinic facilities, or to schedule an appointment, contact our Alexandria, VA office at (703) 823-2422 or our Washington D.C. office at (202) 296-3360.
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Dr. Alkakhan
Dr. Waleed completed a General Practice Residency at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, gaining advanced clinical training in surgical treatments. His thirst for expertise led him to specialize in Periodontics and Implant Surgery at the prestigious Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC). At MUSC, he served as Chief Resident of Periodontics and conducted groundbreaking research on macrophage plasticity during periodontal inflammation, earning a second Master's of Science degree.
Dr. Daru
In 2005, Dr. Daru embarked on her educational odyssey, crossing continents to pursue her passion for dentistry. She obtained her Master of Science in Oral Biology and a certificate in Periodontics from the prestigious New York University and the University of Maryland, Baltimore, in 2010. During her academic years, she delved into intensive research, particularly focusing on innovative bone regeneration techniques, showcasing her dedication to advancing the field.
Dr. Fields
Dr. Fields, a native of Lexington, Kentucky, embarked on his dental journey at Georgetown College, where he earned a B.S. degree in biology/chemistry. He then pursued his passion for dentistry, graduating with a Doctor of Dental Medicine (D.M.D.) from the University of Louisville in 1989. Additionally, he earned the prestigious Ma.C.S.D. degree, specializing in IV conscious sedation, showcasing his commitment to advancing his skills and knowledge for the benefit of his patients.
Dr. Gupta
Driven by a dedication to excellence, Dr. Gupta embarked on a transformative periodontal residency at the University of Detroit Mercy. Here, she earned her Master of Science and a certificate in Periodontics while simultaneously serving as an adjunct faculty for the School of Dentistry for three years. Her commitment to advancing dental knowledge took her to an international stage, where she presented groundbreaking research on clinical treatment for gum recession and root coverage at a prestigious conference in London.
Dr. Zalewsky
Following his military service, Dr. Zalewsky pursued advanced training at Temple University Kornberg School of Dentistry. There, he earned a Certificate in Periodontics and Oral Implantology, along with a Master of Science in Oral Biology. This comprehensive training equipped him to handle intricate periodontal conditions and complex oral implant procedures with precision and skill.
Tooth Extraction Procedure Expectations
As long as teeth have erupted and are visible, they can typically be removed through a simple extraction technique. A simple tooth extraction procedure will typically begin with administration of a local anesthetic,which will numb the area of the tooth being removed. Although this will lessen the amount of pain experienced, patients will still feel a sense of pressure as the tooth is removed. During this process, your periodontist will use tools to elevate the tooth from its sockets, along with forceps to grasp the tooth for the removal process. Gauze will typically be used to control bleeding while this process is occurring.
For more invasive cases, it may be necessary to make surgical incisions in the gums or break the tooth into smaller piece so it can be properly removed. Regardless of what type of procedure you have performed, once the tooth has been removed, the area of incision will be stitched shut.
Tooth Replacement Options
Depending upon the type of tooth extraction you have performed, you may or may not require dental implants following the tooth extraction procedure. There are a range of dental implants available, including single tooth implants, temporary bridgework, fixed/removable bridges, multiple tooth implants, and anchored (orthodontic) implants. Regardless of the implant type, if you have a tooth extracted, it is critical that you follow this
procedure with a dental restoration in order to avoid health and cosmetic issues that will develop as a result of a missing tooth or teeth.
Tooth Extraction Aftercare
To ensure you minimize post-procedural risks and have a smooth recovery experience, it is essential that you follow the post-procedure instructions that are provided to you following your tooth extraction procedure. Post-operative care instructions will vary from patient to patient and be informed by the type of dental extraction you have, but in general it is important to avoid eating hard foods, refrain from smoking, and limit/avoid
physical activity for at least the first two to three days (maybe longer) depending upon the severity of your case.
Patients who have a tooth extraction typically experience mild bleeding following the procedure. To help manage bleeding, place fresh gauze over the socket where the tooth was extracted, replacing the gauze every 30-45 minutes, or until the bleeding stops. Swelling following a tooth extraction procedure is also common and can generally be addressed through the use of ice packs and anti-inflammatory over-the-counter medication.
Once you have completed the healing process, it will not be necessary to follow additional aftercare instructions; however, in order to maximize the benefits of your procedure, it is imperative that you continue practicing good daily oral hygiene practices. Be sure to brush and floss twice daily and continue scheduling regular visits to your dentist or periodontist. These regular visits ensure that your teeth will receive regular professional cleanings and will also reduce your risk of underlying issues such as gingivitis or periodontitis from developing. If you follow these best practices, you will enjoy a bright and healthy smile for many years to come!
Tooth Extraction Cost
The cost of a tooth extraction will depend on a variety of factors, including how many teeth need to be extracted, your dental insurance plan, whether or not additional procedures are required, and what kind of sedation (if any) is used.
At Precision Periodontics and Implant Dentistry, we are committed to ensuring that money is not a deterrent to our patients receiving the optimal dental health care they deserve. For this reason, we offer a range of payment options regardless of what type of treatment you are having, which our staff will be happy to explain and assist with. Our office insurance coordinators work with other insurance companies to assist patients with their claims.
For your convenience, Precision Periodontics and Implant Dentistry accepts cash, check, debit and credit cards (Mastercard, American Express, Visa, and Discover). Our clinic also accepts GreenSky Patient Solutions, a financing option for procedures and treatments not typically covered by insurance, or when insurance does not cover the entire cost. We are happy to provide an application in our office, you can find out more information about this service at https://www.greensky.com/patient-faq/.
Providing you with Optimal Care
At Precision Periodontics and Implant Dentistry, we are proud to provide optimal care for patients in the Washington D.C. and Alexandria, VA area, and are dedicated to collaborating with your dentist to provide you with the customized treatment you deserve. In addition to having state-of-the-art equipment, we are also committed to creating a peaceful and relaxing environment, with amenities such as personal movie screens, neck pillows, and soft blankets available regardless of what procedure you are having performed.
To schedule your appointment for a tooth extraction, contact us today. We look forward to helping you achieve and maintain a bright and healthy smile!