No one actively wants to have their tooth extracted. Dentists don’t want to have to remove them. That is why we would prefer people take all the preventative measures possible to avoid such a thing. However, sometimes removing a tooth is unavoidable. In every case, dentists look at how much damage would be caused by leaving the tooth in place, options besides extraction, and the next step if a tooth is removed.
What Is Tooth Extraction?
Tooth extraction is the procedural removal of a tooth. This surgical process is done with great care. Before starting such a procedure, dentists will discuss what kind of pain relief or sedation you may want during the extraction and the exact steps they will take.
Tooth extraction only occurs after careful examination of the tooth, its neighbouring teeth, and general health. Dentists will need to find out some other general medical information before beginning to keep you safe.
Tooth Extraction Procedure Step by Step
You can break the extraction process down into a few separate processes:
The first step is using anaesthetics to numb the area around the tooth and gum and possibly sedating you for greater comfort.
After this, the dentist can extract the tooth. They may use forceps or dental elevators in doing so, and it may cause discomfort – more from having so many tools in your mouth than from the extraction itself.
After removing the tooth, the dentist closes the work site by:
- Discarding infected and pathologic tissues grated off the socket walls.
- Rounding off pointy tooth bones and washing the socket to remove loose, flaky dental fragments.
- Looking for any signs of sinus issues, which may occur with removing some back teeth.
- Place gauze over the socket and stitch the area to seal the incision site.
3 Reasons Why Dentists Need To Extract a Tooth
Many reasons justify an extracted tooth. Here are three common causes that lead to extraction.
1. Repeat Risk of Infection
The leading reason for tooth extraction is infection prevention or treatment. Infection can spread and kill, dental problems can even cause heart disease and failure. Oral surgery sounds like a severe response to the risk of infection. But, this treatment is only for when the damage is too severe. For instance, harmful bacteria could cause damage in the socket and spread to surrounding tissues, periodontal ligaments, and eventually your jaw bone.
2. Severe dental trauma
While there are other options for minor dental trauma, including bonding and crowns, it may require removal if a tooth has been damaged too much.
If a significantly damaged tooth is not removed, it can cause further trauma to your mouth and other teeth. Damaged teeth are also harder to keep clean and more likely to encourage tooth decay and gum disease.
3. Wisdom Teeth Removal
Removing impacted wisdom teeth is a very common tooth extraction practice. Permanent teeth are important, but wisdom teeth are not necessary for daily life. Sometimes, these teeth grow in wrong, causing trauma to other teeth and increasing the risk of infection. Other teeth nearby can experience rapid decay as a result.
Tooth extraction is a serious procedure that only a fully qualified dentist should perform. Pulling a tooth out at home is not safe. If your tooth accidentally comes out, you should try to preserve it and get emergency dental care. Rinse your tooth with water or milk and store it in milk until you get there.
Important Tips To Follow After Tooth Extraction
Immediately after having an extraction, your dentist will provide you with some gauze to bite down on to stem any bleeding that has yet to clot. It is essential not to try and rinse your mouth out during the first hours, as you must give it time to heal first.
You can begin carefully brushing your teeth again 24 hrs after a tooth extraction, though you should avoid the wound site for a few more days. You can also rinse your mouth around the extraction with saltwater. Do not use mouthwash!
To help reduce swelling, use an ice pack on your cheek outside the extraction area. You can also take ibuprofen or paracetamol as directed by your dentist.
Dentists use biodegradable stitches, so you will not need them removed. However, you should organise a follow-up appointment to ensure the site has healed completely, as well as to discuss options for replacing the tooth.
Wait two days before having food that requires chewing. Stick with soft foods and liquids and avoid switching immediately between hot and cold. Some enjoyable ways to stay full include fresh smoothies, soups, eggs, mashed or whipped potatoes, and Greek yoghurt.
Keep clear of chewy, crunchy, sugary, and spicy foods completely!
Alcoholic beverages are also a no-no for the first week or two and while on any prescribed medicine. Be cautious as certain antibiotics can cause dangerous interactions with alcohol. Alcohol can also cause inflammation in the extraction area.
Want more ideas?
Read: What to Eat After Tooth Extraction: 5 Good Ideas
Extract a Tooth With Professional Help
A dentist knows when a tooth needs to come out. Do not try to guess it by yourself. Consult with a dental hygienist and get an X-ray done. The dentist can decide if a tooth extraction is beneficial. Your goal is to save the tooth. If there is no waiting, and you cannot afford anything else, professional tooth extraction is a sensible solution.
Make sure you get your teeth professionally extracted. Risks come with pulling your teeth out and caring for the socket on your own. Your chance of infection is much higher. An expert will be able to work on the affected tooth and provide proper aftercare.
Schedule your tooth extraction with an expert oral surgeon. We’re here to help!