Tooth extraction is the removal of a severely damaged or not curable tooth. The need for tooth extraction can be triggered by tooth decay arising from insufficient oral hygiene, damage from an accident, or a host of other medical conditions. The very thought of tooth extraction may seem a little frightening, but in reality, it is a routine, low-risk procedure that is painless when carried out by an experienced dental surgeon. The recovery after a tooth extraction is pretty much easy.
Having a tooth removed may seem unnecessary. However, at times, the teeth must be extracted if there is no other option. The dentists will resort to tooth extraction if it is indispensable. Usually, teeth are removed to preserve oral health and prevent further damage to other healthy teeth and gum tissue.
When is a Tooth Extraction performed?
- When there is damage to a tooth that can’t be repaired with a crown or other treatment.
- The root of a tooth is damaged.
- The other teeth are at risk of infection.
- A root canal treatment is unsuccessful.
- A crowded tooth has to be extracted in preparation for orthodontics treatments.
- The removal of unhealthy teeth in preparation for dentures.
- An impacted or problematic wisdom tooth has to be removed.
What is involved in Tooth Extraction?
The tooth extraction is a comparatively simple procedure, though it will vary in difficulty depending on whether the tooth is through the gum line or impacted. For most extractions, only local anesthesia is used. However, sometimes intravenous sedation is employed for more complex procedures. Maximum care is taken to ensure your comfort during the process of tooth removal. The oral surgeon will extract the tooth and sew the surrounding tissue if required. The recovery period for this procedure is pretty quick, and you can return to normal activities within a few days.
However, in the days following the procedure, there will be some things you need to avoid, like using a straw, smoking, and consuming hard or crunchy foods. The doctor will write you some antibiotics and painkillers, which are to be taken as instructed.
What is the aftercare for a tooth extraction?
The most fundamental thing after a tooth extraction is to keep its surrounding area clean to avoid reinfection. In order to control the bleeding due to the extraction, a dry piece of sterile gauze is kept in the vacant space for about 30-45 minutes. For the next twenty-four hours, you shouldn’t smoke or rinse your mouth forcefully. You can expect some amount of pain and discomfort after an extraction. An ice pack might help to reduce the pain and swelling. The discomfort will decrease in three to four days. However, if the pain and bleeding are persistent, you need to consult your doctor straight away.
Call Elan Dental Center at (919)-556-6761 or schedule an online appointment to know more about Tooth Extractions
