Dental Extractions

Tooth extraction is the removal of teeth from their sockets in the jawbone. If a dentist determines that a tooth is too damaged to save or needs to be extracted as part of your treatment plan, it will be extracted with a simple or surgical procedure. If a tooth is severely impacted, we may also recommend extraction.

What Are Some Common Reasons for Tooth Extraction? 

Typically, a dentist will try all the possible means to save a tooth. However, when all treatment options have failed, the dentist may recommend extraction to prevent more damage to the teeth and bone.

The most common reasons for tooth extraction are:

• Decay
• Fractures or cracks
• Impacted teeth
• Root canal therapy failure
• Infection
• Severe decay that cannot be restored with dental fillings
• A toothache caused by impacted teeth
• Placement of dental implants
• Surgical procedures for dental or oral conditions like tumors and abscesses on the jawbone.

Types of Extraction

• Simple Extraction 

This procedure involves using forceps to remove a tooth from its socket without the need for an incision. The procedure is quick and effective, though some swelling and tenderness may be experienced immediately after the procedure.  

• Surgical Extraction 

A surgical extraction involves cutting into the gums to remove a tooth from its socket. This type of extraction is performed when there is insufficient space for the extraction of a tooth without making an incision. 

Who Benefits From Tooth Extraction? 

Tooth extraction is recommended for patients who have severe tooth decay or advanced gum diseases like periodontitis and pericoronitis. It is also recommended for patients suffering from an impacted wisdom tooth that has not yet surfaced. A dental extraction can be performed by a general dentist, oral surgeon, and oral and maxillofacial surgeon. The treatment plan is decided after examining the patient's health and dental condition and determining if an extraction is required. We will also perform an X-ray to check if there are any impacted teeth requiring extraction. If you need a tooth extracted, we can help you schedule an appointment at your earliest convenience. 

What Happens During Tooth Extraction? 

Before beginning the procedure, we will administer local anesthesia to your mouth to numb it completely. This will help prevent pain and discomfort during the procedure. We may also place a rubber dam around your teeth to isolate them from the rest of your mouth and keep saliva away from them.

We will then extract the tooth from its socket and ensure that no fragments remain in your jawbone. Thereafter, we will stitch up the wound and give you aftercare instructions to ensure that it heals properly.

Aftercare for Dental Extractions

After your procedure, our dentist will place gauze around your mouth to stop any bleeding and apply pressure on your cheeks to prevent swelling. It is also advised that you avoid chewing food for half an hour after the procedure. Once you are done with the aftercare procedures following your extraction, you can resume your regular activities like eating and drinking as usual. 

Do not chew on the side of your mouth where you had the procedure performed for at least two days, as it will help prevent any injury to your mouth. For the first few hours after your procedure, apply ice packs on both cheeks for about ten minutes each two times per day to reduce swelling and alleviate pain. For at least two days after the procedure, we recommend avoiding citrus fruits and spicy foods that can cause irritation in your mouth and may cause discomfort after you resume eating normally again. 

I Need A Tooth Pulled

Adental extractionis the process of removing a tooth from its socket in the jawbone. This procedure is usually necessary when a tooth is too damaged to be repaired through other treatments. It can be done as a simple extraction for visible teeth or a surgical extraction for teeth that are impacted or below the gumline.

When you need a tooth pulled, follow these steps:

• Consult Your Dentist: Schedule an appointment to evaluate the tooth and discuss options.
• Prepare for the Procedure: Follow any pre-extraction instructions, such as fasting if sedation will be used.
• Aftercare: After the extraction, it's important to rest and follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions. These instructions are designed to help you heal properly, so it's crucial to follow them. Remember to avoid hard or hot foods, and take prescribed medications to manage pain and reduce the risk of infection.
• Follow-up: Attend follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing and discuss options for replacing the missing tooth, such as implants or bridges, if needed.

FAQ

1. Is tooth extraction painful?

During the procedure, local anesthesia is used to numb the area, ensuring that you feel minimal to no pain. You may feel pressure or pulling, but no sharp pain. After the extraction, some discomfort is normal and can be managed with prescribed pain relievers or over-the-counter medications.

2. How long does it take to recover from a tooth extraction?

Recovery usually takesaboutone to two weeks. Most patients experience initial healing within the first few days, but full tissue recovery may take longer.It’simportant to follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions, avoid strenuous activities, and stick to soft foodsto promote healing during this time.

3. What can I eat after a tooth extraction?

After an extraction, it’s best to stick to soft, cool foods like yogurt, applesauce, mashed potatoes, and smoothies.Avoid hot, spicy, or hard foodsirritatingthe extraction site.Gradually reintroduce solid foods as you heal.

4. How can I prevent dry sockets after a tooth extraction?

A dry socket occurs when the blood clot at the extraction site is dislodged, exposing the bone and nerves. To prevent this, avoid drinking through straws, smoking, or rinsing your mouth vigorously for the first few days after the extraction.

5. Will I need to replace the extracted tooth?

In many cases, replacing an extracted tooth is recommended to prevent shifting of adjacent teeth, bone loss, or bite issues. Options for replacement include dental implants, bridges, or dentures. Your dentist will discuss the best solution based on your individual needs.

At TruCare Dental, we provide dental solutions to improve your oral health while transforming smiles. Please contact us to make an appointment.