At Boon Dental, our ultimate goal is to preserve your natural teeth. If our dentists do recommend tooth extraction, it’s usually as a last resort. Sometimes, tooth extraction is necessary to prevent future dental health problems.
In this article, we discuss everything you need to know about tooth extraction. Read on to find out why you may need a tooth removed, the different types of extractions, and tips for a successful recovery.
Reasons Why You May Need A Tooth Extraction
Common reasons for extracting a tooth are because it has become infected, experienced significant structural damage or because of severe gum disease. If a tooth has damage from extensive decay or a trauma injury and is no longer treatable with a filling or crown, removing it may be the best option.
Sometimes removing a tooth may also be necessary as part of an orthodontic or cosmetic treatment plan. Impacted wisdom teeth may be another reason why our dentists recommend a tooth extraction. Impacted wisdom teeth erupt on an angle, or not at all. Left untreated they can cause discomfort, promote tooth decay, damage surrounding teeth and lead to overcrowding.
If a tooth needs extraction, it’s best not to prolong the removal. A tooth that has significant damage or decay can pose a risk to your surrounding teeth and oral health and eventually may even affect your overall health.
Types of Tooth Extraction
A full oral assessment and medical evaluation is carried out before removing a tooth. Generally, there are two types of extraction procedures. The type you may need will depend on the specific case at hand.
Simple Tooth Extraction
If your tooth that needs removing is visible above your gum line, usually the procedure for removal is quick and simple. The area is completely numbed with a local anaesthetic. Your dentist will then loosen your tooth before removing it.
Surgical Tooth Extraction
Surgical extractions are a little more complex. This type of extraction involves your dentist making a small incision in your gum and removing bone or gum tissue to safely remove your tooth. This procedure is common for impacted wisdom teeth. Sedation options are available for surgical extraction. This means you can undergo your treatment in a dreamlike state without feeling a thing.
Tooth Extraction Aftercare
As with any procedure, following a good aftercare regime will encourage a speedy recovery. It will also help you reduce discomfort and avoid infection. Your dentist will give you specific aftercare instructions post removal.
Here are some general tips to aid the healing process:
- Your dentist will give you some gauze to bite down onto to help with bleeding. Continue to bite down on this for the time your dentist recommends.
- To reduce swelling, you can apply an ice pack to your cheek near the extraction site. You can do this regularly at intervals throughout your initial phases of recovery.
- Avoid rinsing your mouth or spitting for the first 24 hours post tooth extraction. This allows a blood clot to form.
- After 24hrs, gently rinse your mouth with warm saltwater. You can also begin gentle brushing, avoiding direct contact with the extraction site.
- For the first few days, eat soft foods that need minimal chewing.
- Avoid smoking for 72 hours post-extraction.
How Boon Dental Can Help
At Boon Dental, we understand that tooth extraction may be daunting for many patients.
Our team prioritises your comfort and does everything they can to help you feel as relaxed as possible. Our modern dental practices are equipped with the latest in dental technology and our gentle dentists have many years of experience in providing high-quality dental care.
At Boon Dental, you’re in safe hands. For a thorough oral assessment with a dentist that genuinely cares, please contact us to make an appointment.
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