The most common reason for a tooth extraction is damage that cannot be corrected by a filling, crown, or similar treatment. Other reasons may include the preparation for braces or the avoidance or elimination of over-crowding.

The doctors and the oral healthcare professionals at Unique Dental Care want to educate their patients on the preparations for, the types of, and the follow-up after an extraction.

The Preparation

The dentist determines the best plan for the removal by taking and examining the x-ray of the tooth’s area. It is essential for the dentist to know the complete medical history of the patient, including all prescription and over-the-counter drugs, vitamins and dietary supplements that the patient is taking.

If the wisdom teeth are being extracted, then a panoramic x-ray of the entire mouth is taken for the dentist to examine the relationship of the wisdom teeth to the full mouth and the sinuses.

Depending upon the chosen extraction procedure, antibiotics are prescribed a few days before and after the removal to strengthen the immune system. The dentist will give instructions for the day of the extraction that will be similar to those for other surgical procedures.

Types of Extractions

The types of extraction procedures are simple and surgical.

1. The simple extraction is for teeth that are completely through the gumline. The extractions are typically performed with the injection of a local anesthetic. The dentist loosens the tooth with an instrument called an “elevator” and removes the tooth with an instrument called the “forceps.” Simple extractions are performed by a dentist practicing general dentistry.
2. The surgical extraction is a more complex procedure performed on a tooth that is broken or is not entirely through the gumline. Under general anesthesia, an incision is made into the gumline. At times, it is necessary to remove a part of the bone surrounding the tooth or to remove the tooth in pieces. Surgical extractions are performed either by a dentist or by an oral surgeon.

The Follow-Up

The dentist’s instructions to prepare for the procedure will also include instructions to follow post procedure.

There will be pain and discomfort even after a simple extraction. The pain and discomfort following a simple extraction can usually be managed with over-the-counter, anti-inflammatory and pain medicines, like ibuprofen.

Surgical extractions will take longer to heal and to manage the discomfort and the swelling. Typically, the pain medication is prescribed, and the instructions to following during the healing process will be more rigid and exacting as the gums mend from the incision, the extraction, and the stitches.

Regardless of the procedure type, one should not smoke the day of the extraction and for 2-3 days after. The eating of soft foods is a common instruction as is the avoidance of using a straw. All instructions for the preparation of and during the healing process must be strictly followed to minimize any complications.

If you are facing an extraction and would like a consultation regarding extraction procedures, then please contact the oral healthcare professionals at Unique Dental Care, located in Mesa, where new patients are always welcome.

Unique Dental Care is trusted and highly recommended for tooth extractions, as well as other procedures and treatments in preserving oral health.