Tooth ExtractionAfter all your permanent teeth are fully grown, they are meant to serve you for a lifetime. Unfortunately, some circumstances make it necessary to remove the teeth. Such cases include teeth damage, teeth trauma or decay, and other dental health reasons. The process of removing the damaged and unwanted teeth is known as tooth extraction. Mostly the teeth are removed if they pose a health risk or create inconveniences for the patient. At Smile Family Dentistry, we can help diagnose your teeth’ health and help you with the extraction process if needed. Reasons for ExtractionTooth extraction can involve one or more teeth, depending on the situation. Some of the reasons for tooth extraction include a crowded mouth, infections such as tooth decay, bacteria, and other related disorders, and when you are at the risk of diseases. If you are undergoing an organ transplant or chemotherapy, and the immune system can't contain infections, damaged teeth or implants will need removal to prevent infections. Individuals who suffer from periodontal disease also experience weak or loose teeth, making it necessary to extract them for health purposes. The Tooth Extraction ProcessBefore having the tooth extracted, you need to visit our dentist to assess the situation and check if it's fit to remove the tooth. If there are adequate reasons to remove your tooth or teeth, our dentist will numb the teeth surroundings to reduce pain before commencing the extraction process. If the process is complicated, our dentist can use a more potent anesthetic to make the whole process painless. If you have an impacted tooth, our professional will cut the gum and bone tissue covering the tooth, use forceps to loosen it from the jaws and ligaments before removing it gently. A complicated tooth might be removed in pieces to avoid damaging the ligaments and the jawbone. After having the tooth removed successfully, blood is expected to clot on the operated area. If not, our professional will give you a gauze pad to stop the bleeding. In case of a dry socket, a condition characterized by an empty socket, our dentist will dress the socket and offer treatment until the clot forms. Information Required Before the Extraction ProcessTooth extraction is very safe but may need extra care if you have underlying conditions. It would be best to inform our professional of your medical history, the medications you take, and supplements. You also need to notify them of any disorders, including human-made heart valves, heart defects, impaired immune system, cirrhosis, artificial joints, and any history of bacterial endocarditis. How to Recover From a Tooth ExtractionAfter having the tooth removed, you need to follow the instructions you’ll be provided with to ensure comfort, to avoid infections, and for an effective healing process. You need to take painkillers as prescribed, bite on the gauze pad as instructed, rest for 24 hours, and wash your mouth to prevent blood clotting. Long-term measures include avoiding hard or chewy foods and practicing good oral health to prevent re-infection. You may need to revisit our dental offices if you feel nauseated, your gums start to swell, or you have shortness of breath or vomiting. Healing from a tooth extraction takes one to two weeks, depending on your gums and condition. The procedure alleviates any pain and discomfort caused by unwanted teeth. For more information on tooth extractions, call Smile Family Dentistry at 925-825-1130 today. |