Tooth Extractions

Why Would I Need a Tooth Extracted?

All though teeth are meant to stay in our mouth permanently, decay and damage can make them weak and even infected. In these instances, teeth will have to be extracted to preserve oral health. Teeth which have been damaged to a serious degree and cannot be repaired by utilizing a different technique will also need to be removed. The teeth can become overcrowded, a condition which typically takes place with the eruption of wisdom teeth. The additional teeth are frequently extracted because they often cause overcrowding linked to alignment issues. Another reason for “pulling” a tooth is after a root canal. When that procedure has been assessed as ineffective and the tooth root is overly damaged. If gum disease has caused the tooth to loosen and the decay is extensive it will probably be extracted as well.

What Happens During a Tooth Extraction Procedure?

Why the tooth needs to be extracted, where it is located, and the overall health of the tooth will all affect what is done during the extraction process. In a simple extraction, where the tooth is easily accessible, the gum area will be numbed and the tooth will be extracted by employing specially designed devices to grip the tooth. When a tooth is impacted, stuck beneath other teeth, or broken, an incision into the gums may be required. Many patients request to be sedated for this form of extraction. In this situation the tooth is typically removed in pieces rather than in one section.

Will There Be a Lot of Discomfort?

At the practice, the dentist will implement trusted pain management options to make sure that any pain felt will be minimal. After the procedure, patients might wish to use pain relieving drugs and ice packs to manage the pain and swelling.

What Will Recovery Be Like?

The initial recovery period takes about 1 to 2 weeks. New bone and gum tissue will grow into the gap. Having a gap and not filling the space with an implant or prosthetic can cause the remaining teeth to shift. This can affect the individual’s bite and can make chewing troublesome. Generally, the dentist will suggest replacing the missing tooth with a dental implant and crown after the gum and bone have time to heal.