A dental extraction is the removal of teeth from the dental socket. Extractions are performed for a variety of reasons, but most commonly to remove teeth which have become unrestorable because of decay, periodontal disease, or trauma.
Before extracting the tooth, the dentist would deliver local freezing to ensure the tooth and surrounding tissues are numb.
Multiple instruments are used to aid and ease the removal of the tooth; trying to minimally traumatise the tissues to allow for quicker healing.
Reasons for an extraction:
Severe tooth decay or infection.
Severe gum disease.
Impacted wisdom teeth.
Teeth that are blocking other teeth from coming in.
Teeth that have fractured at or near the gumline.
Dental extraction typically consists of the following steps:
First, the dentist will administer local anesthesia to numb the area surrounding the tooth being extracted. In some instances, general anesthesia may be used for more complex extractions.
Next, they use specialized tools to loosen the tooth from its socket and carefully extract it.
Lastly,Once the tooth is extracted, your dentist may place gauze over the socket to help control bleeding and promote clotting.
Benefits of dental extraction may include:
Pain Relief: Extracting a damaged or infected tooth can provide immediate pain relief in the affected area.
Improved Oral Health: Extracting severely decayed or damaged teeth helps prevent the spread of infection and protects nearby teeth and gums.
Orthodontic Treatment: Extracting a tooth may be necessary in order for other teeth to shift into proper alignment during orthodontic treatment.
Preparing for Dentures or Dental Implants: Teeth may need to be extracted before dentures or dental implants can be fitted and placed.
Maintaining good dental health after an extraction requires adhering to these guidelines:
Bite down on gauze for at least 30 minutes to help control bleeding.
Avoid rinsing or spitting for 24 hours after surgery to avoid dislodging the blood clot.
Additionally, refrain from smoking or using tobacco products for at least 24 hours following the procedure.
Eat soft, cold foods for the first few days and then gradually increase solid foods as the area heals.
Gently brush and floss around the extraction site to keep it clean and prevent infection.
Be sure to follow any additional instructions provided by your dentist regarding care of this area.
At Monterey Dental we strive to make this experience as comfortable and as gentle as possible. To help avoid reasons for an extraction; apply preventative measures to protect your teeth. The team at Monterey Dental Centre in NE Calgary are here to help you and to advise you on the path to good oral health.