Our permanent teeth are supposed to be our partners for life, but sometimes pulling a tooth is necessary.

A tooth extraction in Opelika, Alabama, is needed when a trauma has occurred or when your tooth has been badly destroyed by decay. It is also needed when:

• When you have a crowded mouth
• When you have an infection
• When there is a large risk of infection
• When you suffer from periodontal disease

The process of pulling a tooth is a painless and easy experience because your dentist offers a local anesthetic to numb the area and a dental sedative to help you feel relaxed and safe. When you are ready, Dr. Tatum or Dr. Cox will cut away any gum and bone tissue surrounding the tooth. Then, we will take hold of the tooth with a dental tool and will gently rock it back and forth, loosening it from the attached ligament and bone. If the tooth is difficult to pull, it will be removed in pieces.

After your extraction, our team at Tatum & Cox suggests resting for 24 hours. Throughout this time, we recommend taking the medications we prescribe to you and avoiding touching the area with your tongue. Please do not smoke, eat hard foods, or use a straw.

If you would like to know more about tooth extractions, please feel free to give us a call!