Category: General Dentistry

  • Dental Checkup

    Dental Checkup

    Protect your smile with regular dental checkups! At Smile More Dental Clinic in Ermita, Manila, we’ll handle your concerns and make a care plan just for you.

    What Happens During a Dental Checkup?

    dental checkup

    A Dental Checkup includes:

    • Review of your Medical and Dental History
    • Share your health conditions, medications, allergies, and diet with our dentist, as these factors can affect your oral health and treatment options.

    Thorough Oral Examination:

    We perform a detailed oral exam to check your teeth, gums, and related tissues for issues such as cavities, gum disease, and more.

    X-Rays (if necessary):

    Dentists may take X-rays to examine areas beneath the gum line or detect hidden issues like decay or impacted teeth.

    Personalized Treatment Plan:

    Based on your exam, we’ll recommend treatment options, whether immediate care, phased treatments, or preventive measures, tailored to your needs.

    Oral Hygiene Advice:

    We’ll provide tips on teeth cleaning, dietary habits, and managing behaviors such as smoking or alcohol consumption that could impact your oral health.

    How Much is a Dental Checkup in the Philippines?

    The cost of a dental checkup in the Philippines ranges from ₱700 to ₱1,000, depending on the services provided, such as X-rays or other necessary imaging procedures. However, the clinic may waive the checkup fee if the patient chooses to move forward with the suggested dental procedure after the checkup.

    X-rays:

    Necessary for identifying issues beneath the gum line or preparing for treatments like root canals, crowns, implants and extractions.

    Panoramic X-rays or CT Scans:

    Surgeons often require Panoramic X-rays or CT scans for procedures like dental implants or removing impacted teeth.
    We provide the necessary dental X-rays at our clinic, but if imaging procedures cannot be done on-site, we will refer you to trusted dental diagnostic hubs.

    Taking Impressions for Diagnostic Casts:

    Impressions may be created to create diagnostic casts, especially for patients requiring prosthodontic work such as dentures or crowns.


    Why Are Dental Checkups Important?

    Delaying dental care can lead to bigger problems. Here’s why regular visits are essential:

    1.) Early Detection:

    Detecting issues early, such as cavities and gum disease, helps save you time, money, and unnecessary discomfort.

    2.) Preventive Care:

    Routine checkups and cleanings prevent problems before they escalate.

    3.) Tailored Solutions:

    Every treatment plan is designed to meet your individual needs.

    The recommended frequency of checkups depends on your oral health:

    • Every 12 to 24 months: For individuals with excellent oral health.
    • Every 3 to 6 months: Recommended for individuals with an increased likelihood of dental issues.
    checking patient's teeth and gums during dental checkup

    Our dentist will customize your complete treatment plan, including your cleaning appointments, based on your detailed exam. Dental treatment could begin as soon as the day after we check on you.

    Knowing the status of your oral health can help you become an informed patient. We will let you know what needs prompt attention. The decision to proceed will always depend on you.

    It would be best if you do not postpone your dental care because even with how tough a person you are, you will get to the point you can no longer endure troublesome dental problems.

    If you want to get started on knowing your current dental status and find out what dental services are appropriate for you. Visit us here at Smile More Dental Clinic in Ermita, Manila.

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    FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

    1. How often should I visit the dentist?

    On average, every 6 months. However, some individuals may need checkups as frequently as every 3 months or as infrequently as every 2 years.

    2. How much does a dental checkup cost in the Philippines?

    Dental checkups typically cost ₱700 to ₱1,000, depending on the assistance required, which may include X-rays or other imaging if necessary.

    3. Are X-rays included in a dental checkup?

    X-rays are optional but may be recommended to detect hidden issues. Costs for panoramic X-rays or CT scans vary and may require referrals to diagnostic hubs.

    4. What should I do if I experience pain between checkups?

    Contact our clinic immediately. We provide emergency care and guidance to address your concerns.

    Take Control of Your Oral Health Today

    At Smile More Dental Clinic, we focus on delivering outstanding care designed to meet your specific needs. Whether you’re booking your first checkup, considering treatment options, or maintaining your dental health, our team is ready to assist you.

    Come see us in Ermita, Manila, and take the first step toward a brighter, healthier smile.

    Book your dental checkup and begin your path to excellent oral health.

    Get In Touch
  • Dental X-rays

    Dental X-rays

    We take or request X-rays for the following reasons:

    1. Find Out If There Is Decay Between Teeth

    Sometimes it is hard to see with the naked eye.

    2. Check for Bone Loss

    An x-ray presents noticeable jaw bone loss associated with gum disease.

    3. Check for Decay Under Fillings

    An x-ray will help us see the underlying problem with dental restorations.

    4. Look for Infection at the Tip of the Root

    An x-ray will guide us to confirm the presence or absence of infection.

    5. Examine the Area Before Procedures

    Gives the dentist a detailed view of teeth and bone, avoiding guesswork.

    When we recommend that we need to take or request a Dental X-ray, we intend to better evaluate your dental status or problem. So, our dentist can implement a reliable treatment solution.

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    Different Types of Dental X-Rays and Their Uses

    Dental X-rays come in various forms, each serving a specific purpose to provide detailed insights into your oral health:

    Bitewing X-Rays:

    Ideal for checking decay between teeth and evaluating bone levels.

    Periapical X-rays:

    Focus on the entire tooth, from crown to root, to detect infections or root fractures.

    Panoramic X-rays:

    Provide a complete view of the entire mouth in one image, commonly used for surgeries or orthodontic assessments.

    Cone Beam CT Scans:

    Provide 3D imaging for precise planning of implants, extractions, or other complex procedures.

    These X-rays ensure a comprehensive diagnosis, helping our dentist provide the most effective and accurate treatment. Our focus is on minimizing radiation exposure while delivering the clearest possible images for optimal care.

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  • Dental Cleaning

    Dental Cleaning

    At Smile More Dental Clinic, we provide Dental Cleaning to help maintain the patients’ gum health and promote overall wellness.

    Even if you brush and floss your teeth regularly, it might not be enough to keep them clean for a long time. A dental plaque can still develop near the neck of the teeth, reaching deeper below the gum line and in between them. This hardened plaque is full of bacteria that can cause gum bleeding and inflammation, a sign of gum disease if left untreated. Not only are they unsightly, but they can also cause the jaw bone to deteriorate and emit a lousy breath.

    When cleaning teeth, we use an Ultrasonic Scaler, a device designed to remove disease-causing teeth deposits.

    We sometimes have to scale teeth manually with a hand instrument called a “scaler,” which can reach narrow areas between teeth and the far corners of the mouth that are hard to clean with the ultrasonic scaler.

    Next, we’ll use a rotary brush with a grainy prophylaxis paste to polish the teeth, followed by dental flossing. The procedure usually takes 15 minutes to an hour, depending on how much plaque and tartar are on the person’s teeth.

    The price for the professional teeth cleaning service depends on how much plaque has built up and how long it will take to clean.

    In our clinic, we have classified the plaque build-ups as light, moderate and heavy status:

    1.) For light-degree plaque

    They are the cheapest to do. You probably won’t see many tough deposits if you brush your teeth regularly. If you keep up with regular dental cleanings, your dental plaque degree will be classified as light.

    2.) Moderate thickness of hardened plaque

    when you can see a noticeable amount of dental plaque on your teeth. Dental plaque can stick to your teeth more easily if you have acidic saliva, rough or irregular tooth surfaces, frequent eating habits, or if your teeth are naturally predisposed to plaque buildup.

    3.) Heavy classified teeth calcular deposits

    Harder to remove and take much longer to clean. Let’s say you smoke a cigarette, drink teeth-staining drinks (coffee, tea, colas, etc.) and eat a lot of colored food. You’re likely to get more dental calcular deposits (tartar). If that’s the case, the teeth cleaning price won’t be the same as the two previously mentioned classifications.

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    We believe that preventive care is vital for keeping good oral health. Our goal is to keep our patients as healthy as possible. The best approach we have been doing for years is by doing thorough dental care and teaching our patients how to do good routine oral maintenance at home. Do not be ashamed if you haven’t seen your dentist for a long time and feel that you have many plaques or deposits on your teeth. We understand that a particular reason may cause such delay. Still, we can assure you that we have helped individuals in the same situation and good enough that they could get back their gums and teeth to health. If you live in the greater Manila area, Pasay, Makati, Paranaque, Quezon City, or stay in the nearby cities, call (632) 8 254-3773 to schedule your dental exam and stay healthy year-round.

    The usual recommended frequency for Professional Dental Cleaning (Oral Prophylaxis) is every 6 months. Oral Prophylaxis is the first vital solution to destroy harmful plaque and bacteria that cause gum disease and tooth decay. If left to stay on your teeth, the dental plaque and deposits consist of bacteria that are believed to be toxic to gums and exposing you to further health risks. 

    Take Control of Your Oral Health Today

    At Smile More Dental Clinic, we focus on delivering outstanding care designed to meet your specific needs. Whether you’re booking your first checkup, considering treatment options, or maintaining your dental health, our team is ready to assist you.

    Come see us in Ermita, Manila, and take the first step toward a brighter, healthier smile.

    Book your dental checkup and begin your path to excellent oral health.

    Get In Touch
  • Dental Filling

    Dental Filling

    The most common service done in our clinic is dental fillings. They are intended to restore or repair the decayed, damaged, or chipped tooth into a healthy and functional form, as it was before.

    How do we do Dental Filings?

    1.) Checking and evaluating each tooth to be filled whether dental fillings are a suitable solution. We require X-rays if restoring multiple teeth or for questionable teeth status.

    2.) Typically for shallow and superficial dental cavities, local anesthesia may not be necessitated. For deep and complex tooth decay, or when the patient is not comfortable – we can put the tooth to numb.

    3.) We prepare the tooth to receive a dental filling, carefully removing the blackened or decayed part. We emphasize doing this part because just preparing the tooth without really removing the rottenness will not treat the decay. Bacteria can still eat up the underlying structure and eventually recur into a more extensive decay and tooth disintegration. A learned dentist knows that the cavity preparation design box should incorporate a retentive design for the dental filling to be holding efficiently.

    4.) When we are sure that all the decay is removed, we wash and clean the prepared tooth using a water syringe, then dry it.

    5.) Suppose the prepared hole is shallow. We apply an etching solution that will do micro-holes on the borders of the preparation for added tooth filling retention. This solution does not have a pleasing taste, and sometimes you taste them by chance. Just spit it away, do not swallow, and we will wash it out anyway.

     6.) A deep and complex dental cavity requires inner protection. We all know that the tooth is a living tissue that can sense pain or sensitivity. This is when we put a nerve protection, called cavity base. The reliability of the finished dental filling will rest on the condition that future distress can be avoided if the inner structure has been protected. Using this added dental material will safeguard the underlying nerve, so we emphasize that they be put if required.

    7.) Using a special glue called a bonding agent, we apply this to the prepared surface, and then we use a Light-cure device that makes it bonded to the tooth. This is the lock that secures the filling to the tooth, as you might wonder why the dental filling is gripped that way to the repaired tooth.

    8.) The bulk of the filling is the Composite Resin material or the Tooth-Colored Filling that we customarily use. We have to be sure that they are adequately packed, with no voids underneath, and sealed accordingly. Again, the Light-cure emitting light device will cause this filling to harden.

    9.) We require a molder or thin metallic matrix band for molars for complex dental cavities when using Amalgam Fillings and Celluloid Strips when using Composite (White) Fillings. This is essential for good packing and avoiding the filling from sticking to the adjacent teeth for Composites.

    We can repair a broken or dislodged filling, like in cases of recurrent decay. Still, a careful review of the tooth’s health status and vitality is essential if saving the tooth and avoiding future problems is the goal. For broken fillings, time is crucial because the longer you wait, the less chance for better tooth mending.

    10.) We aim to always put the dental filling material on the tooth without saliva contamination. We very well know that bacteria from the saliva can be incorporated into the process. So, aside from the saliva suction machine, we put a cotton roll next to the tooth being filled in.

    11.) Finally, using a thin carbon paper mark indicator, we check for the correctness of the bite. Excess or high portions must be trimmed and polished as it can take a toll on the longevity of the dental filling. Polishing the completed filling is essential so that the tongue will not feel some nuisance when it passes through the filled tooth.

    Having read the description above, you might agree that requiring a dental filling is no simple task. The experienced dentists of Smile More Dental Clinic (Manila), equipped with knowledge and understanding of the tooth condition, will further explain if dental fillings are a treatment option. For sure, they will advise you if this is the ideal solution for your situation.

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    Options Available:

    Composite Dental Fillings

    These are the commonly used dental fillings we offer in our clinic. The above description is particularly applicable to this type of dental filling. It is generally done in one visit. When choosing this option, one thing to consider is enough or substantial tooth structure to carry the load of restoration material. However, there are limits on how many dental cavities we can cover during the patient’s visit. Depending on prior agreement, patient’s tolerance, available time, budget consideration, and other factors – we can do a minimum of 2 dental fillings or more.

    The durability and toughness of this filling will depend on a lot of factors:

    1. Technique and skills of the dentist considered.
    2. The quality of dental filling materials being used (which you can count on us, as we continually invest in tried and tested brands).
    3. The tooth’s condition, whether highly savable or marginally risked.
    4. Food consumptions habit of the patient (sweets, candies, junk foods, hard foods, etc.) are known to jeopardize dental fillings permanency.
    5. And fewer accidents that possibly can happen

    Temporary or Provisional Fillings

    this is the material we advise to use if the dental cavities are too deep, that it is almost reaching the nerve. This cement- medicament has a therapeutic effect on the irritated tooth nerve, preventing dental pain and tooth becoming infected, which may require other services, like Root Canal Treatment or Extraction. There is, however, no guarantee if this treatment can keep the badly damaged tooth from becoming infected. Despite our best effort to preserve the tooth, if the dental nerve is already involved or bacteria has gotten their way inside, the tooth filling can eventually fail. 

    You have to be on guard against your dental health issues, especially tooth cavities. The sooner you see us for assistance, the bigger chance you have to save your valued teeth.

    The price for dental fillings at Smile More Dental Clinic in Ermita, Manila, depends on the extent of the dental cavity to be done. We usually charge them on a per surface basis. We mentioned above that we sometimes use a cavity base (or cavity liner) on deep cavities to protect the sensitive part of the tooth. If needed, we use them with extra cost.

    We always recommend taking an X-ray when restoring a tooth cavity, especially the deeper ones. We need to assess how far they have affected the tooth or how close to decay has gotten near the dental nerve. With X-ray as a guide, it gives us more precision on preparing the teeth and caution not to involve the nerve.

    Fixing a cavity from a filling and fixing it, again and again, is not a long-term solution. Some huge dental fillings fail, and more cavities will be gained if left that way. Because as the hole gets bigger, the remaining tooth structure becomes a lot weaker or brittle. Asking us to put a dental filling when it is not advised is never encouraged because you will only postpone the damage and the problem. 

    Amalgam Dental Fillings

    This is the type of dental fillings that were popular back then. We had the experience of doing them, and based on what we have observed — they can survive for many years. We still see them among patients. There is a controversy on mercury being unsafe and some undesirable effects of Amalgam Fillings. But in hindsight,  Amalgam Filling is not the mercury itself – it is a mixture of metal alloy and mercury mixed, and excess mercury is taken out. Amalgam fillings are known for their ease of use, strength, durability, and longevity; that is why this was the standard before and are still used in some places.

    Inlays and Onlays

    Some occasions may require this type of solution for filling the tooth. If the prepared dental cavity is huge and putting a Composite Dental Filling is an unlikely option, this is where we offer this choice.

    An inlay is intended for moderately-sized or even bigger cavities, with a remaining tooth wall of the prepared cavity that will contain it. While the inlay can extend to even more extensive damage, even involving the lost wall of the cavity and tooth cusps (the pointed part that hits the opposing teeth for chewing, usually subjected to high stress).

    If the damage is too severe, it is more practical to opt for a dental crown for a reliable outcome.

    Inlays and Onlays come in different forms: Ceramics, Metal, or Gold. 

    Because we always want to provide patients with a feasible solution, we sometimes do “Indirect Pulp Capping.” The purpose is to keep the tooth nerve vital or alive. This is possible when the bacteria has not reached or infected the dental nerve yet. We put a medicament and used a definitive or provisional filling, observing the repaired tooth for a given period, then replacing it with a durable filling material.

    Dental Decay Symptoms:

    • Noticeable holes or pits on the tooth’s biting surface
    • Mild to moderate teeth sensitivity
    • Tounge notices sharp area where food particles get stuck in
    • Uneven discoloration on teeth surface or old fillings (recurrent decay)
    • Toothache that happens without apparent cause
    • Abrasions on the neck-line of the tooth, sometimes caused by improper brushing
    • Mild to acute pain when drinking or eating
    • Food particles often getting caught in the same area.

    FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (for Dental Fillings):

    When Do I Need a Teeth Filling?

    Patients need a dental filling when bacterial tooth activity damages or rotten their teeth. Since dental cavities are dental problems created by bacteria found in plaque (they are also responsible for tartar formation) that gather on and around the tooth. These microbes flourish on sweet foods that we consume. If not adequately cleaned or removed by tooth brushing, bacteria secrete an acidic substance that weakens the tooth’s hard covering — creating a hole or cavity in the tooth. If not treated, they can eat up more teeth surfaces until sensitivity or discomfort is experienced. Compared to other dental services, this one is considered a cheap and affordable dental clinic’s service.

    Dental caries usually never felt sensitive or incite pain when tooth decay is still shallow. That is why many patients don’t even realize that they have an ailing tooth until later, in the further advanced stage of tooth decay, when the hole gets deeper. Cavities start to form in places where food debris gets trapped, such as the teeth’ irregular pits, or gaps between teeth, making them even harder to detect. Frequent dental visits allow the dentist to check and spot tooth decay in the initial stages, allowing us to treat the problem before they cause severe destruction on the teeth.

    Likewise, for kids and some adults, we advised that these “pits & fissures” cavity-forming occurrence be controlled by using preventive “dental sealants” that our clinic also advocates using.

    What can I expect when getting a Dental Filling? Will it Hurt?

    Some level of discomfort will have to be experienced when receiving a dental filling. For shallow dental decay, usually, no sensitivity to the procedure is felt. Each patient has a varying degree of tolerance to getting the tooth prepared, cleaned, and decay removed. We have noted that most patients find the tooth drilling bearable, depending on the patient’s depth of decay and pain threshold, as this may vary. A local anesthetic is available on request of the patient for pain-free dental filling treatment.

    Why is it necessary to fill up tooth decay with a tooth-filling material?

    If left unattended, dental cavities will progress and continue to destroy the remaining tooth structure. As it goes, the decayed tooth part will more so be exposed to food particles getting caught in the decay, allowing more bacteria and food debris to thrive. The spread of the damage can involve: 

    • The enamel (outermost covering of teeth).
    • The dentin (the second tooth layer that has nerve endings).
    • The dental pulp (inner tooth nerve).

    When the dental pulp becomes irritated, intense toothache becomes a daily occurrence. It can only be resolved through a Root Canal Treatment, which is a lot more costly than a dental filling or tooth extraction, resulting in tooth loss.

    Patients are advised to have their dental cavities filled the soonest to stop them from spreading to nearby or adjacent teeth. Tooth decay is a disease process caused by bacteria with acidic tendencies creating decay or holes to the predisposed teeth.

    How Many Years Do Fillings Can Survive?

    Dental fillings are not meant to last forever and will need to be replaced. A usual Composite Dental Fillings materials (tooth-colored) may last up to 5 to 7 years or more before being replaced. Silver Amalgam Fillings last longer, up to 10 years or more, before needing to be replaced. But in our clinic, we noticed that patients who frequently see us for a regular check-up could keep their dental fillings much longer because we can give them a quick fix when we notice some level of deterioration.

    Inlays and Onlays can last the longest with proper dental care, lasting up to 10 years or more before needing replacement. 

    *Above figures are only estimated and do not reflect all cases. Each patient and their situation is different. As such, the lastingness of which how long each filling may endure will differ from patient to patient.

    Reasons for Replacing Previous Dental Fillings:

    • Failing or broken-down filling
    • Discolored and tarnished filling
    • Recurrent decay

    Take Control of Your Oral Health Today

    At Smile More Dental Clinic, we focus on delivering outstanding care designed to meet your specific needs. Whether you’re booking your first checkup, considering treatment options, or maintaining your dental health, our team is ready to assist you.

    Come see us in Ermita, Manila, and take the first step toward a brighter, healthier smile.

    Book your dental checkup and begin your path to excellent oral health.

    Get In Touch
  • Dental Sealants & Fluoride

    Dental Sealants & Fluoride

    Dental sealants

    Dental sealants are dental preventive procedures intended to protect and cover the chewing surfaces of back teeth (molars and premolars).  With the use of dental sealants, we can shield the permanent teeth untouched by tooth decay to have a solid layer of protection. They are thin plastic coating, white or teeth-colored materials highly efficient tooth sealers. Most dental decay that occurs among children and young adults happens on the back teeth (premolars and molars) “pits and fissures.” Such areas are rough and impassable by a toothbrush; that is why plaque and bacteria can stay on these crevices. Sealants are safely proven dental procedure that gets in the way against a bit of food, plaque, and bacteria. That without a shield-like covering, the tooth can eventually get tooth decay.

    We noticed in our clinic that those patients who did not have dental sealants applied on chewing surfaces of their teeth could likely get tooth decay. They end up receiving a dental filling or lost their molars at an early age—knowing that most comfort food that kids and young adults eat are mostly sweets, processed foods, and junk foods. Without sealant protection, the odds of catching dental decay from that unhealthy food consumption are high. When we put dental sealants at an early age, soon after the permanent teeth erupt, tooth decay can be avoided — save you money in the long run. Instead of bacteria attacking the tooth structure, the dental sealants placed on the grooves of teeth chewing surfaces of back molars protect them from digging rotten holes.

    Though sealants are a practical solution, they are no substitute for brushing and flossing that we need to do at least twice a day or every after each meal. We constantly mention to our patients to observe good dental hygiene at home. Besides flossing and brushing, anti-cavity mouthwash can do benefit by keeping your mouth fresh.

    Prevent plaque and bacteria from nestling on the irregular teeth crevices, like pits and fissures. Let us stop them from destroying your teeth using dental sealants.

    Fluoride Treatment  or  Fluoride Application

    Is proven to be a quick and effective way of arresting dental decay among children and can also work on susceptible adults.  Fluoride is a mineral significantly tested to defy the cavity-forming effect of plaque and harmful mouth bacteria. When applied, fluoride establishes a bond to the tooth’s inorganic structure, resulting in a tougher composition, resisting decay from forming. This effect is possible because they are proved to be effective in neutralizing bacterial action’s acidic tendency.

    We do Dental Fluoride Treatment at Smile More Dental in Ermita, Manila, by applying dental fluoride in gel or varnish. We found  Professional Fluoride Treatment helpful in decreasing the spread and occurrence of dental caries in children and adults in the same way.

    This dental upkeep benefits our patients by improving dental health and hamper the least forthcoming dental treatment, like fillings and extractions. We recommend Fluoride Treatment as soon as children’s permanent teeth have erupted to enable the fluoride to be integrated into their tooth structure. We likewise recommend them applied to adults with high caries hint or for those who simply want their teeth given an added protection tier. Patients may require the application of fluoride every six months or depend on their specific needs.

    Our dependable dentists at Smile More Dental Clinic in Ermita Manila ensure that an adequate level of fluoride is applied to your teeth because this will successfully cease the breakdown of your teeth’ enamel caused by the bout of caries-producing bacteria.

    Fluoride application and regular brushing and flossing help reduce dental caries in children and benefit adults by reinforcing their teeth against caries attack.

    We aim to effectively negate and offset tooth decay from forming so you can have strong and intact teeth. Help yourself preserve your teeth in their best form by receiving Fluoride Treatment here at Smile More Dental Clinic.

    Take Control of Your Oral Health Today

    At Smile More Dental Clinic, we focus on delivering outstanding care designed to meet your specific needs. Whether you’re booking your first checkup, considering treatment options, or maintaining your dental health, our team is ready to assist you.

    Come see us in Ermita, Manila, and take the first step toward a brighter, healthier smile.

    Book your dental checkup and begin your path to excellent oral health.

    Get In Touch
  • Extraction

    Extraction

    Tooth Extraction or “Exodontia” is the most confronting possibility that we do not want to happen due to the value and importance of each tooth in the mouth. Dentists always endeavor to fix and restore your teeth. But some circumstance of removing the tooth from its socket is a feasible solution.

    Chemotherapy:

    Makes the immune system vulnerable, escalating infectious tendency of the teeth leading to extraction.

    Organ Transplant:

    There are medications intended to suppress immunity in cases of organ transplantation; teeth that are likely to become infected are removed to keep away from a future problem.

    Commonly Extracted Non-carious Teeth:

    Wisdom teeth or third molars are more frequently advised for removal before they become entirely developed, ideally during the teenage years, to deter future problems. They usually become impacted, get decayed, hinder bite, acquire gum disease, and become inflamed.

    We Extract the Teeth for the following reasons:

    Critical Teeth Damage or Traumatic Injury:

    When there is severe damage that happened to teeth, like unrepairable decay and damage (broken or cracked), the repair is impossible. For instance, highly mobile teeth due to advanced gum disease – the worst the disease progresses, the more bone loss can occur, neccesssitating removal of the teeth.

    Malposed Teeth/Teeth Not In Use:

    Removing the problem teeth will circumvent occurrences that will have an adverse influence on your oral health; the dentist may advise removing malposed dentition or teeth of no use, like teeth with no opposing bite that may cause future distress.

    Prerequisite to Braces Treatment:

    In case of severe teeth crowding on the jaw, sacrificing teeth is the only practical way to gain space. Removing few teeth will create space that will give room for aligning correction and jaw improvement attempts.

    Supernumerary Teeth:

    They are considered extra teeth that may hinder the eruption pathway of more useful permanent teeth.

    Radiation Treatment:

    When the head and neck area of the patient gets in the way of radiation therapy, teeth that contribute to infection, dentists recommend their removal.

    We Have Sorted Extraction As:

    Simple Extractions:

    Done on teeth with tooth crown visible in the mouth, not crumbled or broken. They are ordinarily removed in less time using essential extraction tools, like elevators and forceps. The anticipated removal is completed in less time. Even when the tooth crown is intact, but tooth roots are curved, they are not considered simple extraction. Suppose the tooth root is near the vital structures (like nerves and maxillary sinus) or are ankylosed (bone-attached). In that case, we likewise classify this as not an easy extraction.

    Surgical Extractions:

    These include teeth hidden under the gums or bone, difficult to access, and do instrumentation because they are broken at the gum level or below or the tooth itself is embedded in the jaw (impacted case). What makes the retrieval of the tooth part difficult is that we need to do cutting of the gums to expose the tooth part and cut the tooth into pieces (tooth sectioning). This type of extraction requires a more profound anesthetic coverage. In our clinic, we always suture the extraction wound to avoid copious bleeding.

    Getting Ready for Tooth Extraction:

    Before the tooth extraction, the dentist will ask for your medical condition and dental history. You need to let us know if you have medical circumstances, allergies, and the medication that you are taking. To avoid unwanted complications, you need to inform us if you are taking over-the-counter herbal supplements (like ginseng or Ginko Biloba), vitamins, medications like aspirin, etc., that can have an untoward effect related to blood clotting. We will then take the necessary X-rays so we will be appropriately guided doing the procedure.

    There are instances where we can not right away proceed to dental extraction on your initial visit. When we noted that the tooth or gum is infected or the patient has a weakened immune system, we will prescribe the necessary antibiotics before and after the tooth extraction.

    How Tooth Extraction is Done:

    At the start, the dentist will do the numbing or anesthetizing. Topical anesthesia is applied to the gum tissue to make the injection of local anesthesia more comfortable. The tooth to be extracted is numbed, as well as the jawbone and gums around it.

    Simple Extractions:

    The dentist will separate the gums from the neck part of the tooth. The “elevator” (looks like a small screwdriver) will then wedge the surrounding bone and the tooth. Applying the elevator’s controlled jamming push will separate the tooth’s ligament from the jawbone and expand the socket; then, the tooth becomes loose. Using extraction forceps (specialized plier), the dentist will adapt it to the tooth, then do the back and forth rocking movement until the tooth is completely removed.

    The dentist usually puts sutures or stitches, and hemostatic gel foam after the extraction is completed. There are dissolvable stitches that do not require going back to the dentist to have them removed. Nonresorbale sutures are detached and taken after the extraction wound has healed.

    Surgical Extractions:

    We also refer to this as Difficult or Complicated Tooth Extraction. For this type of tooth extraction, a more profound anesthetic technique is employed. For the dentist to remove the tooth, there is a need for specialized surgical tools like dental drills, extraction elevators, and forceps, and more instruments to pull out the tooth.  The dentist will require an extensive surgical effort to perform this type of tooth extraction. For example, gum and bone tissue may bury or enclose a tooth in a way that makes it harder for the operator to see and get into it. In few instances, the dentist will need to incise and elevate gingival tissue. At times a tooth is so tightly attached to the jaw socket; that is why the dentist will need to section the tooth into parts to cut them into smaller pieces for retrieval.

    How to Care for Extraction Wound?

    Bleeding is typical after tooth removal, so the dentist will let you bite on a piece of gauze or cotton for around 30 to 45 minutes. You must bite on it to maintain holding pressure, and the cause the blood to clot soon.  Expect a tolerable level of discomfort and swelling after this dental treatment. A pain medication shall be enough to cover the discomfort for few days. For a surgical extraction, we prescribe a more potent pain prescription medicine

    Applying an Ice pack or Cold Compress aids in subsiding the swelling of the extraction site, usually done in the first 2 to 3 days. Once the swelling has reduced, you can shift to applying a warm compress on the face closer to the extraction area.

    It would be best if you slept with the head facing upward to lighten the pressure on the jaw.  Use an extra pillow to maintain head elevation to help position your head comfortably and impede further bleeding.

    Other Aftercare Tips:

    Avoid rinsing of the mouth for the first 24 hours immediately after treatment.

    Maintain a soft and liquid diet (porridge, ice cream, milk, mashed potato, pudding, noodles) on the day and the following day after the extraction. Slowly transition your diet from soft to more solid form until you feel you can chew better and comfortably. Resist chewing food towards the extraction wound.

    Take Control of Your Oral Health Today

    At Smile More Dental Clinic, we focus on delivering outstanding care designed to meet your specific needs. Whether you’re booking your first checkup, considering treatment options, or maintaining your dental health, our team is ready to assist you.

    Come see us in Ermita, Manila, and take the first step toward a brighter, healthier smile.

    Book your dental checkup and begin your path to excellent oral health.

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