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Extract Damaged, Decayed, Problematic, or Diseased Teeth

Tooth extraction is when a tooth is removed or “pulled” from your mouth. Oftentimes this process is pretty simple and pain-free. Other times, surgery may be required. This is often the case when it comes to the removal of wisdom teeth. There are a few different reasons for extraction, and the benefits definitely outweigh the pain, discomfort, and health risks a severely damaged tooth can cause. Below is more information about tooth extractions, why you would need one, and more.

Why a Tooth Extraction?

There are a few reasons for a tooth extraction. An extraction will only be performed if it is the best option overall. Other times, it will be avoided at all costs. For most of your teeth, your dentist will want to ensure as much of the healthy tooth as possible is preserved. Even if this means replacing the entire crown of the tooth due to damage or decay. Dental extractions are generally a last resort. If a tooth is severely damaged to the point where it cannot be saved or if an infection has made it to the roots and a root canal isn’t able to resolve the issue, an extraction will be required.

Another reason for your dentist to extract your teeth is in the case of wisdom teeth. Often wisdom teeth can cause damage to your healthy teeth and get in the way. Many dentists will extract them before they can cause any problems. This process is a little more complex but is often necessary.

If you have a cracked, fractured, chipped, or otherwise damaged tooth, set an appointment with Oxboro Dental quickly. We may be able to save the tooth. If you allow the damage to get worse, though, you increase the chances of losing the tooth permanently.

The Tooth Extraction Process

The tooth extraction process can be pretty simple. If the tooth is visible and easy to remove, your dentist will often provide some local anesthetic to numb the area and then remove the tooth with forceps. This is quick and easy. If the tooth is broken below the gumline or if wisdom teeth need to be removed, your dentist may need to perform surgery to remove the tooth or teeth. This process will require recovery time and the procedure will need to be scheduled in advance. You’ll need to schedule a ride home, as the anesthetic will likely make you unable to drive.

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Aftercare

It’s extremely important to follow aftercare instructions to prevent infection. You also may be prescribed pain medication after the procedure. Take as prescribed. You can expect bleeding after a tooth has been pulled. Gauze and pressure will help with the bleeding. Bite down on the gauze for around 20 to 30 minutes. It’s important to allow a blood clot to form. Do not try to remove the clot. You may be asked to stick to liquids and/or soft food for 24 hours after the procedure. Make sure you are extremely careful when brushing and flossing for a couple of days after the procedure, and do not brush or floss the area for those couple of days. Do not smoke. Don’t use a straw for at least 28-72 hours. An ice pack can be used on your face. Alternate having the ice pack on your face and off for 20 minutes at a time.

Risks of a Tooth Extraction

While a tooth extraction may be the only option and can’t be avoided, there are some risks you’ll need to consider. In around 3-4% of extractions, a dry socket may occur. This is an infection in the opening of the removed tooth. This is caused by the blood clot not properly forming. Food and air get to the underlying bone and cause problems. A hole in the sinus cavity may open after the removal of an upper molar, but this is rare. Soreness is expected, as is swelling. This is normal.

The Benefits of a Tooth Removal

There are some major benefits of tooth extraction that you’ll want to consider. If you have a tooth that is damaged to the point where it needs to be extracted, there is a high risk of infection. This infection can spread to the jawbone and can even be life-threatening. Removing a damaged or infected tooth will help to stop the spread or development of infection.

Wisdom teeth can impact healthy teeth and can cause shifting and damage. Removal of wisdom teeth can ensure proper oral health.

Tooth Replacement

Once you’ve had a tooth or teeth extracted (unless it’s your wisdom teeth), it’s important to have those teeth replaced as soon as possible. Your healthy teeth may begin to migrate, which leads to crooked teeth, impacting, and crowding. Your jawbone may also begin to deteriorate over time.

A few options for replacement your dentist may consider are dental implants, dentures, or dental bridges. Speak with your dentist to learn more about which options are available to you