Understanding Dental Extractions
Dental extractions, also known as tooth removal, is the removal of teeth by a dental professional, usually done using local anesthetic. With the aim of preserving your natural teeth, extractions are sometimes a last resort. However, in some cases, an extraction may be the best solution, taking into consideration the individual situation and overall health of the patient.
Reasons for Extraction
When would an extraction be necessary? In the case of severe decay or damage, a tooth may be beyond repair with conventional treatments, so your dental professional may choose to extract the tooth to maintain oral health and prevent the spread of infection. In the case of periodontal (gum) disease, there may be damage/loss of the supporting structures in our jaw, which can lead to teeth becoming loose. Depending on the severity, an extraction could be your best option to prevent further progression of gum disease. Other reasons tooth extractions could be necessary may include orthodontic treatments, whereby space may need to be created in order for the treatment to be successful, or removal of wisdom teeth where there simply is not enough space in the mouth to accommodate the tooth, resulting in pain/infection.
Extraction Process
• Pre-extraction Preparation
The extraction process can vary depending on several factors, e.g., complexity of the extraction or location of the tooth. In some cases, you would have a pre-treatment consultation done where x-rays are taken to assess the condition of the teeth as well as the surrounding structures.• Procedure Details
Before the tooth can be extracted, the area will be numbed using local anesthetic, to ensure a pain-free procedure. Once we have checked that the anesthesia is working, the tooth will slowly start to be loosened using specialized tools and skills. The aim is to remove the tooth from its socket with as little damage to the surrounding tissues as possible.• Post-extraction Care
Once the tooth has been removed, there is likely to be some bleeding in the area. You will then be instructed to bite down on some gauze to control this bleeding. Your dental professional will then provide you with some very important instructions on how to care for the wound to ensure a smooth healing process. It is essential to follow these instructions diligently to avoid post-operative complications.
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Follow-up Treatment
