A tooth extraction is a dental procedure during which your tooth is completely removed from its socket. Sometimes, people refer to this as “pulling” a tooth. A tooth extraction may be necessary for many reasons, including severe damage or decay. One of the most common dental procedures, tooth extraction can eliminate bacteria and improve your overall oral health. Dentists and oral surgeons perform tooth extractions for many reasons. The issue may be a painful wisdom tooth or a tooth that has been badly damaged by decay. In some cases, a dentist will remove a tooth to make space for dental prosthetics or braces.
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The dentist or surgeon will numb the tooth first to make the person more comfortable. While tooth extraction may still be unpleasant, it can be key for relieving dental pain and preventing future problems.
Dentists and oral surgeons remove teeth for various reasons. Some examples include:
The right type of tooth extraction depends on the shape, size, position and location of the tooth in the oral cavity.
Dental surgeons may classify tooth extractions as simple tooth extractions or surgical tooth extractions. A simple tooth extraction involves teeth that are visible above the gum line and can be removed in one piece by the dentist.
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Surgical removal is more complicated and requires removal of gum tissue, bone, or both. The surgeon may need to cut the tooth into pieces.
Wisdom teeth are the last teeth to erupt and usually need to be extracted first. This means that it is not completely removed from the gum. Wisdom tooth extraction is a common procedure and a reliable source in oral surgery.
The dentist evaluates the damaged tooth and the surrounding gums. The dentist will also examine the surface of your bones and take x-rays of the tooth to determine the extent of the damage. Be sure to tell your dentist about any medications, vitamins, or supplements you take. Once all the information is gathered, dentist will discuss the treatment and sedation options in detail.
Before starting the extraction, the surgeon takes x-rays of the patient’s teeth. This image helps to evaluate the curvature and angle of the root.
Once the local anesthetic numbs the area, the surgeon begins the extraction. They may chip the tooth. If the tooth is hidden under gum tissue or bone, the doctor may need to remove the gum or remove the blocked area of bone.
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One should not feel pain but expect pressure on the teeth. You may also hear bones and teeth grinding or cracking. Some people find this experience unpleasant and painful.
If you feel pain, you should contact your dentist or oral surgeon immediately.
After a tooth extraction, stitches or additional procedures may be needed to control bleeding. The dentist or surgeon places a thick layer of gauze over the extraction site and the patient bites down on it to absorb the blood and start the clotting process.
Below are some ways to reduce discomfort and recovery after tooth extraction.
After the tooth is extracted, the dentist or surgeon places a thick layer of gauze over the area. Apply the gauze with firm, steady pressure to help control bleeding.
The gas should be left on for at least 20-30 minutes. When the gauze becomes stained with blood, it must be changed. Bleeding may continue for 1-2 days after surgery.
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Numbness caused by local anesthesia lasts only a few hours after tooth extraction. If numbness persists, call your dentist.
Your dentist may prescribe medications to reduce pain and inflammation after the procedure. However, over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen are usually a reliable source of adequate pain control after a typical tooth extraction.
Mild facial swelling may occur at the extraction site. This is normal. Applying ice to the face may reduce swelling.
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The first 24 hours after extraction are critical.
Disturbing or irritating the area can prevent blood clots from forming effectively and slow the healing process.
Therefore, people should avoid the following :
After tooth extraction, drink plenty of fluids and eat soft and nutritious foods.
When chewing is comfortable, slowly reintroduce solid foods. Dentists recommend chewing on the opposite side of the extraction site until the wound is completely healed.
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Continue brushing and flossing as usual after a tooth extraction but be careful not to disturb blood clotting.
You can also wash with warm salt water every few hours from the day after surgery. To prepare this, add half a teaspoon of salt to 1 cup of water.
Like any surgical procedure, tooth extraction carries a small risk of complications. These may include:
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It depends on the complexity of your case. However, most people feel back to normal in just a few days. While you’ll be able to return to routine activities within 48 to 72 hours, it usually takes the jawbone several weeks to heal completely. Therefore, if you’re planning on replacing the tooth with a dental implant, you’ll probably need to wait a few months to allow for a full recovery.
For any further queries related to tooth extraction please contact Uptown Dentistry clinic situated in 2626 N 3rd St #3c, Harrisburg, PA 17110.