Expert Care for Safe Tooth Extractions
As dental professionals, our goal is to help you maintain a healthy smile with all your natural teeth. However, there are times when saving a tooth is not possible.
Tooth extraction may be necessary due to overcrowding, decay, disease, or trauma. Regardless of the reason, we approach every extraction with care and compassion. While the term "oral surgery" may seem intimidating, most extractions are straightforward and routine. Our experienced dentist will perform the procedure with precision to ensure a smooth recovery and optimal results.
If left untreated, a problematic tooth can cause pain, infection, and further dental issues. Extracting the tooth can prevent these complications and improve your overall oral health.
What is Tooth Extraction?
Tooth extraction refers to the removal of a tooth from its socket in the bone. While wisdom tooth removal is the most well-known type of extraction, there are several other reasons why a tooth may need to be extracted, including:
- Severe tooth decay
- Broken, damaged, or infected teeth
- Teeth that fail to erupt properly or at all
- Gum disease
- Creating space for orthodontic treatment
- Side effects of certain medications or treatments
Determining the Best Method for Tooth Extraction
To determine the appropriate extraction method, your dentist will start by taking X-rays to assess the condition of your tooth. If extraction is necessary, a local anesthetic will be applied to numb the area around the tooth. For patients who experience anxiety about the procedure, sedation options are available to ensure comfort. Please note that if you choose sedation, you will need someone to drive you home afterward.
Simple Extraction vs. Surgical Extraction
There are two primary types of tooth extractions: simple and surgical.aThere are two main types of tooth extractions: simple and surgical.
- Simple Extraction: This procedure is used when the tooth is fully visible in the mouth. It is a straightforward process where the dentist uses an instrument called an elevator to gently widen the socket and loosen the tooth. The tooth is then removed with forceps. Local anesthesia ensures that you won’t feel pain, although you may experience some pressure.
- Surgical Extraction: When a tooth is below the gumline or partially impacted, a surgical extraction is necessary. This more complex procedure involves making an incision in the gum to access the tooth. In some cases, the dentist may need to remove some bone to extract stubborn tooth fragments. Stitches are required for this procedure, and pain medication may be prescribed for recovery.
Tooth Extraction Aftercare
Proper aftercare is crucial for a smooth recovery after a tooth extraction. Whether you’ve had a simple or surgical extraction, following your dentist’s or oral surgeon’s instructions is key to preventing complications and ensuring proper healing.
After the extraction, the empty socket will fill with a blood clot, which acts as a natural bandage to stop bleeding and begin the healing process. It's essential to avoid disturbing the clot. For the first few days, refrain from smoking, using straws, spitting, or blowing your nose, as these actions can dislodge the clot and lead to a painful condition called dry socket. If you experience a dry socket, contact us immediately for treatment.
By following the aftercare instructions, most healing will occur within one to two weeks. However, losing a tooth can cause changes in your jaw and teeth alignment. To prevent further dental issues, you may want to consider replacing the missing tooth with a dental bridge or implant. Contact us to learn more about your options for restoring your smile.