Tooth Extraction Removal

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Reasons for Tooth Extraction

Teeth may be meant to last for your lifetime, but the reality is that sometimes their removal, or extraction, offers far more benefits than merely leaving the tooth in the mouth. There are many reasons why a tooth may be extracted, including trauma or decay.

 

 

 

Infection

One of the most common reasons for tooth extraction is because of an infection. If a tooth is severely damaged, and that damage extends down to the tooth’s pulp, removing it may be the only option. That’s because if the pulp is exposed, bacteria may be able to enter the pulp, and therefore the bloodstream, leading to infection. The risk of bacterial infection is especially high in those who have a weakened immune system, either due to chemotherapy, having an organ transplant, or other reasons.

In some instances, root canal therapy is an effective option for killing the infection and saving the tooth. If, however, the infection does not improve with antibiotics or a root canal, extraction is likely the only option left to rid the body of the infection.

Overcrowding

Overcrowding is another common reason for tooth extraction. Dentists may elect to pull teeth to prepare the mouth for orthodontics. Since the goal of orthodontic appliances is to straighten the teeth, too many teeth in the mouth can hinder their effectiveness. The same applies to teeth which fail to break through the gum due to overcrowding in the mouth. If a tooth cannot permeate the gum, the dentists may recommend extracting it to reduce the chances of discomfort. Wisdom teeth are another common reason for the removal of teeth due to overcrowding

 

 

The Tooth Extraction Process

Before having a tooth extracted, you should alert your dentists to any health conditions which you may have. These conditions include, but are not limited to:

1. Congenital heart defects

2. Damaged heart valves

3. History of bacterial endocarditis

4. Thyroid disease

5. Liver disease

6. Renal disease or failure

7. Adrenal disease

8. Diabetes

9. A weakened immune system

 

 

Anesthetics

Once the dentist has determined that the tooth needs to be extracted, they will numb the area affected by an anesthetic. The goal of the admiration of anesthetic is to reduce the pain and discomfort you may feel during the extraction process. Usually, the area will remain numb for several hours after the procedure, so it is essential that you be careful not to bite your cheek, tongue or lip, as you may not be able to feel any potential damage you may cause due to lack of sensations.

Extraction

The extraction process can either be simple or surgical, depending on the nature of the tooth. Simple extractions take place if the tooth is visible, or if the damage to a broken tooth is not so severe that merely pulling it out is impossible. During a simple extraction, after the dentist applies a local anesthetic, the tooth is loosened with an instrument called an “elevator,” before extracting it with forceps.

Surgical extractions generally involve both local and intravenous anesthetic, to help calm the patient. If necessary, the patient may receive general anesthesia instead, meaning they will be unconscious during the entire procedure. During a surgical extraction, the dentists will make a small incision in your gum to access the affected tooth. They will then either cut the tooth out or remove bone around the tooth to successfully extract it.

 

 

After Care

 

 

 

Bleeding

After the tooth is extracted, your dentists may place gauze in the socket of the extraction site to help control any bleeding which may occur. The gauze is essential for helping a blood clot to form, which is needed to promote proper healing at the extraction site. Usually, the bleeding should stop after 30 to 45 minutes. If, however, the bleeding continues, replace the old gauze with new, clean gauze and bite down on it for another 30 minutes. If heavy bleeding persists, contact your dentist.

Swelling and Pain

After an extraction, it is common to experience a degree of swelling and pain. Applying a cold compress, or a cool, wet cloth to the affected part of the face may be helpful in reducing swelling and alleviating any pain or discomfort.

 

 

Medication

Your dentists may also prescribe medication to assist with the reduction of any inflammation, pain or discomfort you may be feeling. When taking any medicine, it is crucial that you follow the instructions provided by the dentists and pharmacist thoroughly, to ensure the medications are effective and safely administered. Also, be sure to take the full course of the medicines prescribed, especially if it is an antibiotic for an infection.

 

 

Eating and Drinking

 

 

After the extraction process, you should drink plenty of fluids and eat only soft, nutritious foods. Soft foods are essential since you need to minimize contact with the extraction site to promote effective healing. Eat foods such as soups, pudding, yogurts or applesauce. Only add solid foods once the extraction site has healed. You should also avoid drinking from a straw in the first 24 hours after a tooth extraction, as this may cause damage to the extraction site.

 

 

 

 

Schedule An Appointment Today

 

 

Toothaches are painful. Visiting a dentist shouldn’t be, especially for children. At Florida Dental Solutions. we strive to make getting dental work done a pleasant experience for your entire family. We specialize in providing our clients comprehensive dental care at affordable prices. If you are looking to help your child say hello to better oral hygiene, give us a call today at 954-362-4102.