Tooth Extractions
Tooth extraction is a common dental procedure performed to remove a tooth that is damaged, decayed, or causing crowding. While preserving natural teeth is always preferred, extractions are sometimes necessary to maintain overall oral health.
Reasons for Tooth Extraction:
- Severe Decay or Infection: When tooth decay or an infection penetrates deep into the tooth and root, making restoration impossible.
- Crowding: To make room for proper alignment of teeth, especially before orthodontic treatment.
- Impacted Teeth: Commonly involves wisdom teeth that don’t have enough space to emerge or develop normally.
- Periodontal Disease: Severe gum disease that affects the surrounding tissues and bone, compromising tooth stability.
- Trauma: Teeth damaged beyond repair due to injury.
Procedure:
- Consultation: The dentist evaluates the tooth and surrounding area, often using X-rays to determine the best approach.
- Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area, ensuring a pain-free experience.
- Extraction: For a simple extraction, the dentist loosens the tooth with an instrument called an elevator and removes it with forceps. Surgical extractions, which may be needed for impacted teeth, involve making an incision in the gum and sometimes removing bone around the tooth.
Post-Extraction Care:
- Bleeding Control: Bite on a gauze pad to help stop bleeding.
- Pain Management: Use prescribed painkillers and apply ice packs to reduce swelling.
- Oral Hygiene: Avoid rinsing vigorously, smoking, or drinking through a straw for the first 24 hours. Rinse gently with salt water after 24 hours to keep the area clean.
- Diet: Stick to soft foods and avoid chewing near the extraction site.
Healing: Most extractions heal within a week, though it’s essential to follow the dentist’s instructions to prevent complications like dry socket.
