Extraction of a tooth refers to the removal of a tooth from its socket within the jaw. It is an everyday dental process performed by dentist near you in case there are other complications arising that require oral extraction. Therefore, in the article, we shall discuss the whole process involved in tooth extractions, its risks, and aftercare.
Reasons for Tooth Extractions
There are many different reasons why one might have a tooth removed. The most common reason is the tooth is greatly decayed or damaged and can’t be put back in any other way, such as through a filling or crown. For these teeth, the tooth will be removed because it can then prevent the spread of infection to other teeth.
Another reason is when there are too many teeth in the mouth. When there is no enough space, the teeth will become crooked and lead to other dental problems. A dentist may advise on the removal of some teeth to create more space and help in improving oral health.
Wisdom teeth are third molars that emerge in teenagers and early adults. Sometimes there isn’t enough room in the jaw for them to erupt, so they have to be removed. Wisdom teeth can become lodged and unable to fully emerge, resulting in pain, infection, and other complications.
The Dental Extraction Procedure
Before the dental extraction procedure, your dentist will take an X-ray of your mouth to determine the position of the tooth and its roots. This will help them plan the best approach for removing the tooth.
On the day when the extraction shall be performed, your dentist injects local anesthesia into you to numb down the region, and if in case you need sedation, your dentist should be able to offer it such as nitrous oxide or some oral sedation.
Then, when your gums are numb and relaxed, your dentist will loosen the tooth using special equipment. Sometimes, to get to the tooth, they must cut into the gum tissue. Then, your dentist will carefully use forceps to remove the tooth from the socket.
Immediately following the extraction, your dentist will place a gauze pad over the socket and ask you to bite down to help the bleeding stop. They may need to stitch up the gum tissue if it needs to be repaired. The procedure usually takes less than an hour, and you can go home the same day.
Risks of Tooth Extraction
As with any dental procedure, there are some risks associated with tooth extractions in NW Calgary. These include:
- Bleeding: It’s normal to have some bleeding after a tooth is removed. But if the bleeding doesn’t stop after a few hours or gets worse, call your dentist right away.
- Infection: After a tooth removal, there’s a chance of infection, especially if you don’t follow care instructions. Your dentist may give you medicine to prevent infection, and it’s important to take it as directed.
- Dry Socket: Dry socket happens when the blood clot that forms after the tooth is removed comes out or disappears too soon. This can cause a lot of pain and slow healing. To avoid this, don’t smoke, drink through a straw, or spit for at least 24 hours after the removal.
- Nerve Damage: Rarely, nerves in your jaw might be hurt during the tooth removal, causing numbness or tingling in your lips, tongue, or chin. This usually goes away on its own in a few weeks or months.
Aftercare for Tooth Extractions
Proper aftercare is crucial for ensuring a smooth recovery and avoiding the risks of tooth extraction. Here are some tips to follow:
- Bite down on the gauze pad your dentist gave you for at least 30 minutes to help stop the bleeding.
- Don’t smoke, drink through a straw, or spit for 24 hours after the tooth removal.
- To relieve pain, take any pain medication prescribed by your dentist exactly as directed.
- Eat soft foods and avoid chewing on the side where the tooth was extracted for a few days.
- Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater several times per day to keep the area clean and promote healing.
- Avoid heavy activities for the first 24 hours after the tooth removal.
- Go to your follow-up appointments to make sure you’re healing well and to have stitches removed if needed.
Expert Tooth Extractions for Optimal Oral Health
Tooth extractions are a common dental treatment that might be needed for reasons like severe decay, overcrowded teeth, or impacted wisdom teeth. The dentist in NW Calgary or a nearby dentist will numb the area around the tooth, loosen it, and remove it with special tools. Although there are some risks, following aftercare instructions will help you heal and avoid problems.
If you have tooth pain or other dental issues, talk to your dentist to see if a tooth extraction is needed. At Kensington Dental Choice, our friendly team offers gentle and efficient tooth extraction services, making sure you are comfortable and well taken care of.
