All you need to know about Tooth Extraction
The tooth extraction process involves removing a tooth from the bone socket.
Why it is Necessary
People undergo teeth extraction because of the following reasons:
- Excessive tooth infection and decay
- Overcrowding of teeth in the mouth
- To provide space for teeth in the event where you require braces
- To maintain the good health of the mouth in the case of chemo patients and those about to undergo an organ transplant
- Baby teeth may not be shed in time to give room to permanent teeth
- For removal of wisdom teeth – These teeth are usually extracted either after or even before they start growing. They come in your late twenties. If these teeth are decayed or cause you pain, extraction has to be done.
Preparation
Before booking an appointment, an x-ray of your tooth is taken. Ensure you tell the dentist about the medications you are on, including supplements and vitamins.
Inform the practitioner if you will be subjected to bisphosphonate treatment. If this is the case, the tooth should be extracted before the treatment. Otherwise, you could suffer jaw osteonecrosis.
The following information should also be revealed before the extraction:
- Diabetes
- Heart defects
- Thyroid disease
- Liver disease
- Adrenal disease
- Hypertension
- Bacterial endocarditis history
The dentist may wish to ensure each condition is stabilized before you undergo the procedure. During the days leading to the surgery, your dental practitioner may prescribe some antibiotics for you if:
- It is expected that the procedure will take longer.
- You have a weak immune system or an infection.
- Your medical condition is specific.
Keep in mind the following on the extraction day:
- Put on loose-fitting clothing or one with short sleeves if IV anesthesia will be administered to you. Six to eight hours prior to the appointment, avoid any food or drinks.
- Avoid smoking.
- If you catch a cold, inform your dentist for rescheduling.
- Bring along someone that will take you home in the case of general anesthesia.
The procedure
The extraction method can either be surgical or simple. It all depends on whether the tooth is impacted or visible.
Simple Extraction
Local anesthesia will be administered to you. The anesthesia will numb your tooth surroundings, making it impossible to feel pain but only pressure during the operation. The tooth will be loosened using an elevator and then remove it with the help of forceps.
Surgical Extraction
Both IV and local anesthesia will be administered to you, leaving you relaxed and calm. Depending on your medical condition, general anesthesia may also be given. General anesthesia leaves you unconscious throughout the whole procedure. An incision will then be made in your gum. The bone near the tooth may need to be removed, or your tooth cut before extracted.
Associated risks
There are few risks associated with this procedure, but the benefits outweigh the complications.in many cases, a blood clot will form in the tooth socket soon after extraction. If the clot dislodges or fails to form, a ‘dry socket’ condition occurs where there is an exposure of the bone in the socket. When that happens, the area is protected by placing some sedative dressing on it. A new blood clot will form.
Other associated risks include:
- Excessive bleeding
- Severe chills and fever
- Vomiting or nausea
- Cough
- Chest pains
- Swelling and redness.
How long till you recover?
It will take you some days to go back to your normal health after the procedure. The steps below will speed up the recovery process:
- After the extraction, put ice directly on your cheek for reduced swelling.
- Once a gauze has been placed over the extraction area, you should bite down to help in the formation of a blood clot and reduce bleeding.
- Ensure you take all the prescribed medications.
- Do not switch back to your regular routine immediately. At least wait for 24 hours.
- Avoid using straws for at least 24 hours after the procedure.
- Wait 24 hours after the procedure to rinse your mouth. Your spitting should be gentle.
Unique Dental Care is dedicated to restoring that beautiful smile and providing you with high-quality services for all your emergency dental needs. Our options include implants, teeth extraction, veneers, and many more. Call us now to get booked in.