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Tooth Extractions
Though our adult teeth are meant to last a lifetime, sometimes, for the health of the entire mouth, a tooth simply must go! Some situations that warrant a tooth extraction include: impacted teeth, or teeth that are positioned incorrectly in the mouth or jaw; a tooth that is causing overcrowding in the mouth; a severely decayed tooth; a broken tooth that cannot be repaired; periodontal (gum) disease; and in preparation for orthodontic treatments.
Tooth Extractions
When Is Tooth Extraction Necessary?
Healthcare providers prefer to save natural teeth whenever possible. In many cases, you can repair teeth that are broken or damaged by decay with a filling, crown, or other dental treatment. Sometimes, though, the damage is too severe to repair, so your dentist will recommend extraction. Your dentist may recommend tooth extraction if you have:
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Severe tooth decay (cavities).
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A fractured tooth.
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An impacted tooth.
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Crowded teeth.
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Severe gum disease.
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Tooth luxation or other dental injuries.
Tooth Extractions
Simple Vs. Surgical Extractions
There are two basic categories of tooth extraction: simple and surgical.
Simple extractions are performed when a tooth is showing above the gum line and can be removed simply with forceps. During a simple extraction, your dentist will numb the tooth and gum tissue and loosen the tooth with an instrument called an elevator before removing it with dental forceps. The process and healing time for simple extractions are both quite quick.
Surgical extractions are for more complex cases, in which the dentist must remove gum tissue or even bone in order to remove the tooth. Some cases in which this type of extraction is necessary if a tooth has broken below the gum line, or quite commonly, for impacted wisdom teeth. Patients who undergo a surgical extraction will be usually be prescribed a painkiller and experience some swelling in the face near the site of extraction for a few days.
Tooth Extractions
Tooth Extraction Aftercare
It normally takes a few days to recover after a tooth extraction. The following guidelines help ensure that your recovery goes smoothly.
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Keep the extraction site clean. After the dentist places the gauze pad over the affected area, bite down to reduce bleeding and to aid in clot formation. Leave the gauze on for three to four hours, or until the pad is soaked with blood. Gently rinse the area with an antimicrobial mouthwash two to three times a day. Avoid brushing directly over your extraction site until your dentist tells you it’s safe to do so. Brush and floss all other areas normally.
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Take all medications as directed. Your dentist may prescribe antibiotics and pain relievers. It’s important to take all of these medications exactly as directed. You can also take over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen.
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Avoid strenuous activity for at least two days. An elevated heart rate can cause increased post-operative bleeding and discomfort. Rest and relax for the first 24 hours. Skip the gym for the first 48 to 72 hours. Ask your dentist when it’s safe to resume normal routines.
If you are experiencing pain that isn’t going away after several days or signs of an infection —including fever, pain, and pus or drainage from the incision — Call Lexington Dental, make an appointment to see us as soon as possible.
