Tooth extraction is a medical procedure that involves pulling out a tooth. As much as we hate it, sometimes, there’s no other way but to have your tooth extracted. In fact, from badly damaged or rotted teeth to infections, there are a number of reasons that may lead you to tooth extraction. However, while it may be a little scary to imagine your dentist using daunting tools to pull out your tooth, in reality, tooth extraction is a fairly simple process and you probably don’t have anything to worry about.
If you are anxious about your appointment with the dentist for tooth extraction, the easiest way to calm your nerves is to know what to expect with the tooth extraction and how to care once the tooth has been extracted. It will help you prepare for your tooth extraction and will also assist in quick recovery. But before you get all ready to have your tooth pulled out, let’s take a look at some f the most common reasons that lead to tooth extraction.
Why You Need Tooth extraction
Although permanent teeth are supposed to last a lifetime, they often don’t. Here’s why!
A Rotted Teeth
Badly damaged or rotted teeth usually do more harm than good. Sometimes, it is better to have such teeth removed altogether. This is the most common reason that leads most people to tooth extraction. Also, it is important to understand that a decaying tooth can not only lead to infection but it can also cause the neighboring teeth to rot. Therefore, if it is beyond repair, it is better to get rid of it.
A Crowded Mouth
Misaligned teeth due to insufficient space in the mouth are relatively common. If that’s the case with you, your dentist may suggest tooth extraction in order to prepare your mouth for orthodontia, which refers to irregularities in the teeth or jaws. Similarly, it is possible that a tooth is unable to erupt out of the gum, simply, because there is no space. Again, tooth extraction is the most feasible solution to deal with this problem.
Periodontal Disease
It is a gum disease that affects the tissue and bones around the teeth, leading a tooth or multiple teeth to lose support otherwise provided by the gums. If there’s no other way to fix lose teeth, your dentist may suggest a tooth extraction.
Risk of Infection
A rotted tooth can present a number of dental problems. One of the most severe and serious issues associated with decaying teeth is the risk of developing an infection. If harmful bacteria reach the pulp of the tooth, it can lead to infections. In most cases, the problem is corrected through root canal. However, if the infection is severe, you may need to have the tooth pulled out.
Before the Tooth extraction
Keep in mind that while, generally, tooth extraction is safe and does not involve many risks, it is advisable to make sure your dentist know if you have a condition that puts you at a higher risk of developing an infection. Here’s a list of conditions that you must share with your dentist before sitting in for tooth extraction.
- Damaged heart valves
- Liver disease
- Impaired immune system
- Bacterial endocarditis
What to Expect with a Tooth extraction
While it sounds scary, we often exaggerate the horrors of tooth extraction. Throughout the procedure, it is important to remain calm and trust your dentist. Also, know that your dentist or surgeon knows what they are doing. Therefore, there is really nothing to worry about.
Before starting the procedure, your dentist will give you an injection of local anesthesia. It will numb the area where the procedure is to be performed. While the common practice is to use local anesthesia, your dentist can also opt for strong general anesthesia, allowing you to sleep through the procedure.
Once the tooth a removed, a blood clot will form in the empty socket. Your dentist will pack a gauze pad in the socket and have you bite down on it in order to stop the bleeding. To close the gum, your dentist may also place a few stitches. No frets – these stitches are self-dissolving and, under ideal conditions, won’t bother you much.
If everything goes well, you are done with the tooth extraction and will recover in no time. However, sometimes, the blood clot in the socket can get disturbed, exposing the bone. Keep in mind that it is a painful condition and if you experience it, it is best to consult your dentist ASAP. They will put a sedative bandage over the socket for a few days, allowing a new clot to form.
After the Tooth extraction
Tooth extraction can be a painful process. Here’s a list of tips that can help you minimize the discomfort and lead you to quick and healthy recovery after having a tooth pulled.
- Your dentist will prescribe painkillers. Take them as prescribed.
- Bite down on the gauze to help form the blood clot. Make sure you change the gauze before it becomes soaked.
- To bring down swelling, apply an ice bag immediately after the procedure.
- Rinsing vigorously or spitting can dislodge the blood clot. Therefore, refrain from doing so.
- After 24 hours, use a saline solution to rinse your mouth.
- In the first 24 hours, avoid smoking.
- Eat only soft foods and avoid sugary drinks.
- Prop your head on a pillow when lying down at night.
Now that you know what to expect with a tooth extraction, follow these tips to have a quick recovery. Remember, it is common to experience pain for some days after a tooth extraction. However, if the pain is too much or the bleeding won’t stop, it is advisable to see your dentist.
