Extractions and Wisdom Teeth in Anderson, SC
At Hopewell Family Dentistry, we know the value of a healthy smile. That is why we do everything we can to help you keep your natural teeth.
Sometimes, however, a tooth can cause so many problems that the best solution is to remove it. For patients who have had long-term dental complications, removing their teeth might be the best way to help them enjoy greater comfort, health, and the ability to eat the foods they love.
Though this is a last resort, it sometimes happens. And if it does, we are here with solutions to restore the appearance and function of your smile.
Dental Extraction Procedure at our Anderson Clinic
Some extractions are more complex than others. Dr. Carter has experience with all types of dental extractions and can perform them safely and comfortably right here in our Anderson, SC dental office.
He will start by evaluating the tooth to be extracted by taking x-rays and planning treatment before he even begins.
Once Dr. Carter plans your treatment, he will make sure you are completely numb and comfortable for your procedure before getting started.
Wisdom Teeth Removal
Not everyone has to have their wisdom teeth removed, but we recommend extraction if they are causing you problems such as pain and overcrowding or they are impacted, meaning they cannot erupt properly because there is not enough room.
Dr. Carter removes wisdom teeth in our office for many teens and adults. If you are lucky enough to hang onto yours, make sure you keep them clean because they are often more prone to decay because of their location at the back of your mouth.
Comfortable Extractions with Sedation Dentistry
If you are fearful, we can help you relax for your extraction. We offer both nitrous oxide sedation and oral sedation for fearful patients.
Nitrous oxide – Also called laughing gas, nitrous oxide is a mild sedative. We deliver it through a small nose mask. It is safe, wears off fast, and has few side effects.
Oral sedation – Oral sedation is a prescription medication that you take before we begin your procedure. It is a bit stronger and will make you feel dreamy and relaxed. Since it is a medication that causes sleepiness, you will need someone to drive you home.
Extraction Aftercare Tips
Once your extraction is complete, Dr. Carter will schedule a follow-up exam and give you instructions on how to care for yourself while you heal. Remember to avoid smoking cigarettes and drinking through a straw after your extraction. This can cause a painful condition called dry socket and will disrupt your healing process.
Reach Out to Our Anderson Dental Clinic
If you have a tooth that is giving you problems, contact us right away. We are here to help you enjoy a comfortable and healthy smile.
Frequently Asked Questions
We never want to hurt our patients.
Dr. Patrick Carter takes his time making sure you feel completely comfortable for your treatment. Our Hopewell Family Dentistry philosophy includes the idea that dentistry can be pain-free, and we strive for that goal with every patient.
Alleviate Dental Anxiety
Even if you have difficulty getting numb, we offer solutions. Did you know that stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol can counteract anesthetic and make it harder for you to feel completely numb? It’s true, and it’s not your fault. If we address your anxiety first, using sedation dentistry, getting numb and staying numb throughout your treatment should be no problem.
Gentle Dentistry in Anderson, SC
Even services such as extractions, root canal therapy, and dental implant placement can go smoothly and feel just like having a filling. Dr. Carter is also great at giving injections. You will hardly know it is happening.
Making sure you are comfortable is a top priority. At our Anderson, SC dental office, we take our time to do it right so you can relax, feel confident in the care you receive in our office, and even have a positive experience when receiving dental treatment.
Contact Hopewell Family Dentistry
If you have concerns about something hurting, let us know! That way, we can learn a little more and make sure we treat you right.
Meet Our Doctor:
Dr. Patrick Carter D.M.D.
Featured Blog Posts - Extractions and Wisdom Teeth
Dental Extraction Aftercare: What You Need to Know
Having a tooth extraction in Anderson, SC doesn't have to be stressful, especially when you're working with a dental team who supports you before, during, and after your procedure. At Hopewell Family Dentistry, our primary goal is to make your tooth extraction process the most comfortable. Here's what you should know about dental extraction aftercare and your tooth replacement options.
After Your Tooth Extraction Procedure
Dr. Carter and his team use advanced technology to ensure that you're comfortable throughout your extraction procedure. 3-D scans and imaging help them plan for the ...
Extractions and Wisdom Teeth Technology
Panoramic X-Rays
Different types of x-rays show different information. A bitewing x-ray, for example, helps us spot decay while a periapical x-ray shows us the whole tooth, including the root. We can use these to identify infection and bone levels.
A panoramic x-ray gives us the big picture – your bone levels, each of your teeth, your jaw joints, and the growth pattern of your teeth. A panoramic x-ray is often used to plan surgeries such as wisdom tooth removal and dental implant placement.
When we take a panoramic x-ray, the machine will move around your head to capture a good image. You must stand still, but don't worry – it only takes a few seconds to complete and provides Dr. Carter with valuable information regarding your oral health.