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A caring method for tooth removal to promote the best oral health possible
As dental professionals, our main objective is to assist you in maintaining a healthy life with your natural teeth. However, there are instances where saving a tooth is not possible.
There are various reasons why a tooth may need to be extracted, such as crowding, disease, or trauma. Regardless of the cause, we approach all extractions with caution. While the term "oral surgery" may sound intimidating, most extractions are routine procedures. Our skilled dentist will perform the extraction with precision, ensuring a smooth recovery and optimal outcomes.
Leaving a tooth that requires extraction untreated can result in pain, damage, and potential infections, leading to further dental issues.
What does a tooth extraction involve?
You are likely most familiar with wisdom tooth extraction, which is often necessary due to problems they can cause to nearby teeth and the risk of infection. Other reasons for tooth extractions include severe decay, damage, or infection, teeth that do not come in properly, gum disease, creating space for orthodontic treatment, and side effects from medications or treatments.
Deciding on the Extraction Method That is Right for You
Before any extraction, we will take x-rays to determine the type of extraction you need. If the dentist decides that a tooth needs to be pulled, they will inject a local anesthetic to numb the tooth and surrounding area. If you are feeling anxious, dental sedation can help make you more comfortable. Please keep in mind that if you receive sedation, you will need someone to drive you home.
For a simple extraction, the process is straightforward. The dentist's goal is to lift the entire tooth out of its socket. To do this, they will widen the socket to make it easier for the tooth to come out. Using an elevator tool, they will gently wiggle the tooth to create a wider opening. Once the tooth is loose enough, it can be removed with forceps, which are similar to pliers or tweezers. You may feel some pressure as the tooth is removed, but the local anesthesia will ensure you do not feel any pain. After the tooth is removed, the dentist will clean the socket and apply medical gauze to stop any bleeding.
Comparison between Surgical Extraction and Simple Extraction
There are two types of tooth extractions: simple and surgical. A simple extraction is a basic procedure where a visible tooth is removed without affecting surrounding bone or gums. On the other hand, a surgical extraction is more complex and involves moving or removing gum or bone tissue to extract a tooth that is stuck below the gumline. During a surgical extraction, the dentist or oral surgeon will create a gum flap by making a small incision and moving the gums to access the jawbone. They may also need to remove a small amount of bone to extract stubborn tooth fragments. Stitches are required after a surgical extraction, and pain medication may be prescribed for a few days post-procedure.
Post-treatment care
Proper aftercare is crucial after tooth removal, whether it is a simple or surgical extraction. It is important to carefully follow the directions provided by your dentist or oral surgeon to ensure proper healing. Failure to care for the tooth socket can lead to complications and delays in the healing process.
After the tooth is removed, a blood clot forms in the empty socket to aid in the healing process. It is important to protect this blood clot, similar to how you would protect a scab on your skin. Avoid touching the blood clot and follow your dentist's instructions for the first few days after the extraction.
During the initial healing period, it is important to avoid smoking, drinking through straws, spitting, or blowing your nose as these actions can dislodge the blood clot and lead to a painful condition known as a dry socket. If you experience any signs of a dry socket, contact your dentist immediately for intervention.
Most of the major healing typically occurs within one to two weeks after the tooth extraction. However, losing a tooth can have long-term effects on your dental health and quality of life. If you are interested in replacing a missing tooth, consider options such as a dental bridge or dental implant. Contact your dentist to learn more about your options for tooth replacement.
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