Tooth Extraction Although we strive to save natural teeth, sometimes a tooth extraction is the best option. Duggan Endodontics will make the experience a stress-free one and provide you with a range of options to replace the tooth to preserve function as well as the cosmetic appearance of your smile.When Should a Tooth Get Extracted?Tooth extractions are carried out when the tooth has become so damaged that it cannot be saved. Thus, if you have excessive tooth decay where fillings, inlays or onlays, a crown, or root canal won't repair the damage it will be necessary to remove the tooth to prevent further problems, such as painful infections. Other oral health problems that may result in a tooth extraction include teeth that have become loose because the supporting structures have eroded through periodontal disease. Sometimes, unhealthy teeth may need to be removed if patients are having other medical procedures, such as chemotherapy, or an organ transplant. This is to keep the mouth free of infection that may have a detrimental effect on medical treatment. Occasionally, healthy teeth are removed if the mouth is overcrowded. In these circumstances, orthodontic treatment is carried out to straighten the teeth and move them into the spaces created by the teeth extractions. Types of Tooth ExtractionA Simple ExtractionSimple extractions are performed when the tooth has emerged from the gums. They are undertaken by general dentists and can be carried out under a local anesthetic, although conscious sedation is also an option. A Surgical ExtractionSurgical extractions are performed by oral surgeons and are required if the tooth has not erupted, or has only partially erupted, through the gum. To extract the tooth, an incision is made into the gum, requiring stitches to close the wound once the tooth has been removed. A surgical extraction may be carried out under a local anesthetic, or conscious sedation. However, if it is for several teeth, for example, the four wisdom teeth, you may be referred to the hospital to have them removed under a general anesthetic. Aftercare for ExtractionsFollowing the extraction, a piece of gauze is usually placed over the extraction site to stop the bleeding and encourage the formation of a blood clot. If you have been prescribed antibiotics or pain killers, make sure you take these as instructed. You may have some swelling and bruising but applying ice packs frequently over the extraction site during the first 48 hours will greatly reduce swelling and speed up your recovery. Any bruising should start to fade after a few days. You may have to rethink your diet for a day or two and consume only soft foods that do not require chewing. Drink water only on the day of the extraction and keep the mouth as clean as possible. Brush your teeth, but avoid the extraction site, and rinse the mouth gently with a saltwater solution that will get rid of bacteria. After a few days, you should be able to return to your normal activities as your mouth heels. It may take a few weeks to heal completely, depending upon the nature of your extraction - whether it was a complex case, surgical, non-surgical, or a wisdom tooth. If you'd like to find out more about tooth extractions at Duggan Endodontics, call our office at (512)-380-0777 and schedule an appointment. |
