Tooth Extractions
While many people get their wisdom teeth removed, there are a plethora of other reasons why tooth extraction may be necessary. Excessive tooth decay, tooth infection and crowding can all require a tooth extraction. For example, if braces treatment is required, sometimes one or two teeth require removal to make room for other teeth as they shift into place. Tooth extraction of visible teeth is a relatively simple treatment. It requires use of local, general or intravenous sedative. Tooth extraction of broken teeth or teeth below the gums is a much more involved procedure.
The Tooth Extraction Process
Before scheduling the procedure, your dentist will take an X-Ray of the mouth to determine how many teeth need to be removed and where they sit in the mouth. It’s important you tell your dentist about any medications you take or any health conditions you suffer from before beginning the extraction itself, as sedatives could harm you if mixed improperly with other drugs. You might be prescribed antibiotics in the days leading up to your procedure if the dentist expects a long surgery, you have an infection or weak immune system or you have a specific medical condition.
A simple tooth extraction involves receiving a local anaesthetic to help numb the area around the tooth which is to be extracted. After the anaesthetic kicks in, the dentist will use a lever called an elevator to loosen the tooth before gripping it with forceps and removing it.
A surgical tooth extraction will likely involve both local anaesthesia and intravenous anaesthesia, possible general anaesthesia too. This means you will be asleep during the procedure. The dentist will cut into your gum with a small incision. They may need to remove bone around your tooth or cut your tooth before it is completely removed.
Tooth Extraction Recovery
It generally takes a few days to completely heal after a tooth extraction treatment. The following steps can be taken to speed up recovery and ensure it is as effective as possible:
- Apply an ice pack to the cheek to reduce swelling.
- Bite down on the gauze pack the dentist places in your mouth following treatment to help blood clots form.
- Take any medications prescribed.
- Do not use a straw for 24 hours.
- Do not smoke and drink alcohol for 48 hours.
- Don’t rinse for 24 hours, only spit gently.
- Eat soft foods for 24 hours after treatment.
If you are experiencing persistent pain several days after the treatment has been completed it could be a sign of infection. It’s best to schedule a follow-up appointment with your dentist to make sure that the healing process can complete itself as efficiently as possible.
Contact Campsie Laser Dental on 02 9789 6219 to book an appointment for a tooth extraction consultation today. We are open for business Monday to Friday, 9:00am to 6:00pm, and Saturday 9:00am to 4:00pm.