Tooth Extraction: Everything You Need to Know

Introduction:

Having a healthy set of teeth and gums is priceless. However, when there is a high risk of bacteria and infections, a great option is tooth extraction.

Did you know ten million wisdom teeth are extracted from nearly 5 million people each year in the United States? However, before you plan to have a tooth pulled, there are certain things that you need to know.

What is Tooth Extraction?

Tooth extraction (also known as exodontia, exodontics, or dental extraction) is the removal of teeth from its socket. It is performed for a broad number of reasons. However, the common reasons are periodontal disease, gum disease, tooth decay, or dental trauma.

Types:

There are two types of dental extractions:

a) Simple Extraction

Simple Extraction involves the removal of the visible tooth in the mouth. It is carried out by a dentist using a local anesthetic. After that, he or she uses an elevator to loosen and forceps to eradicate the tooth.

b) Surgical Extraction

Surgical teeth extraction involves the elimination of teeth that are hard to reach. In this process, the dentist first makes a tiny incision into gums. He or she usually fragments the tooth into several pieces for easy removal.

Who Performs Tooth Extraction?

Tooth extractions are usually conducted by:

  • A general dentist
  • A maxillofacial and oral surgeon
  • A periodontist

What to Expect?

Before pulling out teeth, the dentist takes an X-ray of your tooth to study your condition in-depth. He or she and gives an injection of a local anesthetic to numb the area.

If the tooth is impacted, she or she will remove the bone and gum tissue.

After that, the doctor will use forceps, hold the tooth, and make it loose from the jaw bone and ligaments.

Remember, after tooth pulling, a blood clot occurs in the socket.

Finally, the dentist will put the gauze pad into it, and you need to bite it down to prevent bleeding. Stitches are also performed depending on the extent of bleeding.

How Long Does the Pain Last After your Last Tooth Extraction?

Pain after tooth surgery is common. It may last near about two weeks.

Tooth Extraction Healing Time

Although aftercare may differ depending on the type of extraction and tooth area, you can usually expect it to heal in 7 – 10 days. However, proper healing of soft tissues and bones takes 3 to 6 months.

Do’s and Don’ts after Tooth Extraction

Here are the tooth extraction aftercare tips:

Do’s:

  • If you spot a dry socket, severe bleeding, or abnormal pain in the treated region, call your nearby dentist immediately.
  • Start brushing and flossing activities as you usually do after 24 hours.
  • Clean the site around the wound many times daily.
  • Be gentle when cleaning around the area
  • Chew on the opposite side to avoid getting food particles stuck
  • For the first two days, aim to consume only soft foods such as apple sauce, yogurt, cooked cereals, cottage cheese, ice cream, etc
  • Wash your mouth with a solution made of 8 ounces of warm water and 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • Milk, water, juice are the best beverages that you can try
  • On the third day, try to add food such as oatmeal, toast, eggs, etc
  • Do take the recommended dosage of medication to manage pain

Don’ts:

  • Do not remove the blood clot from the infected region
  • Avoid spitting or washing the treated area for at least 72 hours
  • Do not drink with a straw for the first 24 hours
  • Avoid cold foods
  • Do not smoke a cigarette
  • Avoid strenuous exercise for one week after surgery for proper healing.

Tooth Extraction During Pregnancy – Is it Safe?

Although the American Dental Association declares tooth extraction to be safe during pregnancy, the best option is to delay the process until your delivery. However, if your dentist recommends a tooth extraction while pregnant, it’s best to schedule it during your second trimester.

What to Tell Your Dentist before Tooth Extraction?

Although pulling a tooth is usually safe, the process can allow deadly bacteria to enter into the bloodstream. So before having it let your dentist know:

  • Your full medical history
  • Supplements and medications you take

Also, tell if you have the following conditions:

  • Impaired immune system
  • History of bacterial endocarditis
  • Artificial joint
  • Liver disorder
  • Congenital heart defect
  • Damage of human-made heart valves

Signs You Need a Tooth Extraction

  • Irreparable tooth decay
  • Fracture of a tooth
  • Tooth rotting
  • Dental cavities
  • An impacted wisdom tooth
  • Bone loss around the tooth
  • Overcrowding
  • Periodontitis

Wrapping Up:

Getting a tooth pulled can be nerve-wracking. If you feel you might require it, visit a skilled dentist near you. After getting it, make sure you schedule regular professional teeth cleanings and practice the best oral care practices at home.

Always follow the advice given by the dentist to lower discomfort, risk of dental infections, and fast recovery. It will keep your smile healthy and forever!

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