Dental extractions are carried out when a severely damaged or decayed tooth has to be removed, as no means of restoration would suffice to save it. Since extractions can be painful, the dentist will initially administer local anesthesia before proceeding with it to numb the tooth and other oral tissues. It should be noted that we only suggest dental extractions if they’re absolutely necessary, as we try to save the natural tissues of the mouth as much as possible.
Common instances where extractions are needed
- Tooth decay: Cavities are caused due to the erosion of the enamel by the microbes in the mouth. They lead to the decay of the tissues of the tooth and eventually reach the root canal cavity if left untreated. Sometimes, cavities could have advanced so deep down that they cannot be filled with a suitable filling. In such instances, we will suggest an extraction to make sure the adjoining teeth and soft tissues do not get infected as well.
- Damaged teeth: Teeth that are cracked, chipped, or broken due to external trauma or a weak enamel could lead to severe pain and discomfort. If left untreated for a long time, the microbes in the mouth can advance onto the root canal and infect the tooth severely. If possible, we will try to restore the tooth using dental crowns or veneers. But, if the extent of damage is too much, we will suggest an extraction.
- Impacted teeth: Impacted teeth are ones that get stuck in the jawbone while erupting. They can cause severe pain and increase the risk of developing an infection. The best way to treat an impacted tooth is by extracting it - either in one piece or by sectioning it into smaller portions.
How is an extraction carried out?
Tooth extraction is one of the simplest dental procedures that doesn’t involve significant chair time. The dentist will thoroughly screen your mouth to understand whether or not you require an extraction. Once we decide on your candidacy, we will go ahead with the extraction. The dentist will administer local sedatives to numb the oral tissues. Next, the tooth to be extracted will firmly be gripped using forceps, and the dentist will shake it cautiously to loosen it from the jawbone socket.
Once it is loose enough, it will be removed from the mouth in one firm motion. A piece of gauze will be used to control the bleeding and enable the formation of a clot. Suitable medication will be suggested to facilitate optimum healing of the extraction site. For the next few days, it is advisable to avoid eating hot or spicy foods, brushing near the wound, etc., as it could cause pain and discomfort.
What are the Post-Operative Instructions for a tooth extraction?
After the procedure, you need to follow some instructions, that include:
- Keep gauzes in the mouth for an hour or two.
- Keep your head elevated.
- Apply an ice pack on the side of the extraction site.
- It is normal to have blood-tinged saliva.
- Do not perform any strenuous activity soon after the procedure.
- Do not eat anything until the bleeding stops.
- Do not drink through a straw.
- Do not rinse your mouth or spit on the day of the surgery.
- Do not smoke or drink alcohol.
- Do not have hard foods, instead consume soft foods or warm liquids for a few days.
- Avoid brushing your teeth near the extraction site for 3 days.
- If you are experiencing some pain, take the medication prescribed by the dentist.
- From the next day, you can rinse your mouth three times a day with a warm saltwater solution.
- If the pain persists even after three days, call us immediately.
You may schedule a consultation with our team of dental experts by calling us or reaching us through an online query. We’re always happy to help.
