Tooth Extractions
There are many reasons a tooth might need to be extracted, such as decay, trauma, gum disease, impacted teeth or in preparation for an orthodontic treatment like braces. Wisdom teeth are the most common teeth to be extracted since most jaws are not large enough to have room for wisdom teeth without causing harm to other teeth in the mouth. Considering orthodontic treatment? Let us know!
Thanks to sedation dentistry, extracting teeth is a relatively simple and painless process. Depending on the patient, the state of the tooth and the reason for extracting, there are generally two types of extractions that are performed.
Simple Tooth Extraction
When the tooth being removed is in a clearly visible position, isn’t broken and appears like it will be removed easily, it is considered a simple extraction.
Surgical Extraction
If the extraction is more complicated due to the tooth being impacted or the tooth being broken, some of the gum tissue will have to be surgically moved in order to complete the extraction.
Tooth Extraction – After Care Tips
Had a tooth extraction? Immediately after the procedure, it will be important for the blood clot to form. To aid in the formation, bite down on gauze for about 30 minutes. If the clot has not formed, change the gauze and bite down for another 30 minutes.
Once the clot forms, avoid the following:
- Drinking through a straw
- Rinsing vigorously
- Smoking cigarettes
- Drinking alcohol
- Brushing near the extraction site
- Exercising
For pain and swelling, over the counter pain relief medicine and cold packs work well.
Schedule your Extraction
In addition to checking the health of your teeth and gums, your dentist can also check for any early signs of oral cancer. Early detection of oral cancer increases survival rate, and dentists are leading the charge to screen all their patients. Schedule an appointment for dental cleanings & exams with us today!