A tooth extraction is the removal of your tooth from its socket in the bone. It is typically performed by an oral surgeon. Prior to extraction, you will likely receive a local anesthetic to numb the area and reduce pain.
Reasons for Extractions
Your third molars, or wisdom teeth, are the last set of permanent molars to emerge. Due to several complications, these teeth are also the most likely to require extraction. However, other teeth may also need to be extracted for other reasons, including:
- Impacted tooth – your tooth is trapped beneath bone or gums, which prohibits it from emerging properly.
- Crowding or smallmouth – emerging teeth may cause other teeth to shift or crack due to lack of space.
- Decay or infection – when a tooth is affected by extreme decay or infection and can’t be corrected with a filling or root canal therapy, it may require extraction.
To prepare your tooth for extraction, local anesthesia will be applied to the affected area. If there is gum tissue that is blocking the tooth, your specialist will make minimal incisions to expose the tooth. Then, a forceps tool is used to grip and loosen the tooth for extraction. If a tooth is crowded by other teeth, it may be broken into pieces to preserve the neighboring teeth.
After the tooth is extracted, bleeding may occur. As a result, gauze will be placed to prevent bleeding and we recommend biting down to control bleeding. You may experience soreness in the extraction site afterward, but the pain will subside as your tooth effectively heals.
Since tooth extractions are a form of oral surgery, there are certain guidelines you should follow to minimize discomfort, reduce the risk of infection, and speed recovery. Some essential post-extraction care tips include:
- Get driven home by a friend or family member.
- Take painkillers as prescribed.
- Rest, but lie with your head propped on a pillow to prevent prolonged bleeding.
- Change gauze pads once they become soaked.
- Use an ice pack as directed for pain and swelling.
- Limit your diet to soft food and drink with a straw.
- Avoid smoking.
- If bleeding continues for more than 24 hours, contact our office immediately.
For more information about extractions or to request and extraction consultation, contact Premier Dentistry today.