A tooth extraction is usually a quick procedure in which a tooth is removed. There are many reasons for a tooth extraction. In some cases, a tooth is removed to allow more room in the mouth for other permanent teeth to come in. Removing a tooth in this instance can help prevent overcrowding, which can cause the teeth to come in crooked. Severe tooth infections, facial injuries, or periodontal disease are other reasons for a tooth extraction.
This dental procedure is fairly common, but there are still things patients should know before a tooth extraction.
Know Who Performs a Tooth Extraction
If you have a problem with any of your teeth, you should contact a dentist in your community. Even if it's not yet time for your routine dental exam, a dentist should evaluate any kind of tooth problem you might have.
If the dentist determines that a tooth needs to be removed, they will have you come back for the outpatient procedure. Usually, a dentist in the office can remove the tooth, but dental surgeons also perform tooth extractions. Depending on the problem, the dentist may need to remove more than one tooth.
Know What Happens During a Tooth Extraction
A dentist or dental surgeon will either perform a simple extraction or a surgical extraction. During a simple extraction, the dentist will use a local anesthetic and simply remove the tooth with forceps. A surgical extraction is a little more complex and it usually requires general anesthesia.
Surgical extractions are necessary for teeth that are still below the gum line. Teeth that cannot be easily removed might also need to be removed surgically. In either case, after the tooth is removed, the dentist will wash out the socket and then apply gauze to stop the bleeding. Once the bleeding stops, the dentist will stitch up the extraction site.
Know What Recovery Is Like Following a Tooth Extraction
Even though you will be able to go home shortly after a tooth extraction, you should still plan to take it easy. You might want to take the rest of the day off from work and avoid strenuous activities. The dentist will probably recommend that you take an over-the-counter pain medication to alleviate the discomfort.
To reduce swelling, you can also apply an ice pack. You should not rinse your mouth with anything and you will want to stick to eating soft foods. If you experience severe pain, bleeding at the extraction site, or a fever, you should contact your dentist.
Contact a local dental office, such as Maple Springs Dental, for more information.
Share15 November 2021
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