Tooth Extraction
What is Tooth Extraction?
Tooth extraction is a dental procedure in which a tooth is removed from its socket in the jawbone and gum. This procedure is typically performed by a dentist or oral surgeon when a tooth is severely damaged, decayed, infected, or causing other dental issues.
Why Tooth Extraction Might Be Necessary:
- Severe Tooth Decay: When a tooth is extensively decayed and cannot be restored with fillings or root canal treatment, extraction may be the best option to prevent the spread of infection to nearby teeth.
- Advanced Gum Disease: Periodontal disease can cause the supporting structures around a tooth to deteriorate, leading to tooth mobility and necessitating extraction.
- Impacted Wisdom Teeth: Trapped below the gumline, wisdom teeth may need extraction to prevent pain, infection, or misalignment.
- Crowded Teeth: In cases of orthodontic treatment, tooth extraction might be necessary to create space for the remaining teeth to shift into proper alignment.
- Fractured Teeth: A severely fractured or cracked tooth may not be salvageable and may need to be extracted to prevent further damage.
Concerns on Extraction
At Lavington, we understand that tooth extraction can be a daunting prospect for some patients. However, rest assured that our experienced team of dentists and oral surgeons is committed to providing a safe and comfortable tooth extraction experience. Whether your tooth is severely decayed, damaged, or causing overcrowding, we will ensure that the procedure is carried out with utmost care and precision.
The Tooth Extraction Procedure:
- Evaluation: Before the extraction, our dentist will conduct a thorough examination, review X-rays if necessary, and discuss the procedure with you. If you have any concerns or questions, this is an excellent time to address them.
- Anesthesia: Local anesthesia will be administered to numb the area around the tooth. If you’re nervous or require multiple extractions, we also offer sedation options to ensure your comfort.
- Extraction: The tooth will be gently loosened and then carefully removed using specialized dental instruments. Our dentists are skilled in performing extractions with minimal trauma to the surrounding tissues.
- Post-Extraction Care: After the tooth is extracted, a gauze pad will be placed on the extraction site to control bleeding. You’ll receive detailed instructions on how to care for the area and promote proper healing.
Tooth Extraction Aftercare:
- Bite on Gauze: Bite down gently on the gauze pad placed over the extraction site for about 30-45 minutes after the procedure to promote clot formation and reduce bleeding.
- Pain Management: Some discomfort and swelling are normal after extraction. Over-the-counter pain relievers and cold compresses can help manage pain and reduce swelling.
- Avoid Certain Foods: Stick to soft foods and avoid hot, spicy, or hard foods that could irritate the extraction site during the initial healing phase.
- Oral Hygiene: Continue brushing your teeth but avoid the extraction site for the first 24 hours. Afterward, gently rinse your mouth with warm saltwater to keep the area clean.
- Avoid Smoking and Straws: Refrain from smoking and using straws for a few days, as they can dislodge the blood clot and impede healing.
- Rest: Get plenty of rest in the first 24 hours and avoid strenuous activities that could increase bleeding.
Follow-up Appointment
A follow-up appointment will be scheduled to monitor your healing progress and ensure there are no complications.