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Extractions
Benefits
Tooth extraction is done when other dental procedures cannot repair the damage.
Tooth extraction relieves symptoms and pain
It allows patients to continue with additional treatment
When done for cosmetic reasons, it restores the smile
What is this procedure for?
Patients with severely decayed or infected teeth
Patients who break or fracture teeth by accident
Patients with severe gum disease that may affect bone structures
Patients with crooked teeth
Patients who do not have enough room for the wisdom teeth at the back of the mouth
People who have suffered from advanced gum disease
People with broken teeth that are impossible to repair
People who have teeth that are inappropriately positioned in the mouth.
What happens before the procedure?
The dentist needs to examine the mouth and all teeth before deciding whether or not a patient is a candidate for extraction. As well as that, an X - ray will be done to allow the dentist to see where the root portion is and to evaluate the aspects of the tooth and of the bone surrounding it. The dentist also collects medical information from the patient - he or she needs to be aware of all medicines and supplements the patient takes as they can cause complications. The patient will be advised to take antibiotics for a few days before the procedure if they have a high level of active infection. Before the procedure patients will have the tooth, jawbone and surrounding gum anesthetized.There are cases where patients have had extraction under general anesthesia but they are rare; in most cases the dentist uses local anesthesia to numb the area and some sedative drugs to help patients relax during the procedure. Only when the anesthetic has taken effect does the procedure start.
What happens during the procedure?
Once the area is numb, the dentist starts by loosening the tooth. Then, using the forceps, he or she removes it by pushing and rocking it. At this stage the patient hears noises and feels pushing as the tooth is being eased out, but he or she does not feel any pain. Once the tooth is removed, the dentist squeezes the space in the gum where it was; a piece of gauze is placed on that area and the patient must bite down on it. This reduces the bleeding. In some cases the dentist stitches the gum to help it heal.A blood clot will form in the socket; this is very important in the healing process so patients are advised not to do anything to dislodge it. Swelling and discomfort are likely to occur during the first 24 hours following the extraction so the dentist will prescribe antibiotics. He or she will also advise patients on what foods and drinks they should have or not.
What happens after the procedure?
The jaw will feel stiff and sore but the dentist will prescribe painkillers to relieve the pain. Shortly after the extraction patients can go home. Although it is recommended they rest for the remainder of the day, patients can choose to continue their jobs or chores. They are given painkillers, antibiotics and mouthwash solutions to take home. If they had stitches that do not dissolve on their own, they should go back in after about a week to have them removed.