When Do I Need a Tooth Extraction?
Our permanent teeth, once they emerge, should last for a lifetime. However, certain factors such as decay or broken teeth make it impossible for this to be achieved. Whenever the teeth get damaged beyond repair, tooth extraction is the best dental solution to save and preserve the gum and other teeth.
Why Is Tooth Extraction Done?
Several dental conditions can warrant a tooth extraction such as;
- Crowded and impacted teeth. The wisdom teeth should emerge through the gum line. However, due to limited mouth space, they may become entrapped between the gum and jaw. A tooth extraction will be done to pull the wisdom teeth and reduce the pain. Furthermore, your teeth may be pulled in preparation for orthodontia, a procedure done to align crowded teeth.
- Tooth decay. Often, the tooth cavity is removed using a root canal procedure. However, if the decay has completely damaged your teeth, then extraction may be your only option.
- The risk of infection in any tooth may require extraction, especially if you have compromised immunity.
- Periodontal or gum disease is an infection that affects the tissues and bones of the surrounding teeth. The infection can cause the teeth to loosen and the dentist may need to pull the affected teeth
- If the primary or baby teeth fail to fall off at the set time
What Type of Extraction Do You Need?
Depending on the severity of the dental problem and the tooth to be extracted, our dentist will perform either a simple extraction (for visible teeth) or surgical that is done to remove impacted teeth. They may administer a local, general or intravenous anesthesia before the procedure.
The Tooth Extraction Procedure
A tooth extraction procedure can put you at risk of developing a severe infection. So, before the teeth are pulled, it is important to discuss with our dentist your medical history, drugs or supplements you may be using.
The dentist may give you antibiotics before and after the surgical procedure if you have compromised immunity or recurring infections.
When to Call Our Dentist?
You will feel pain and discomfort as the anesthesia wears off, swelling and bleeding for the first 24 hours after the procedure is done. However, if you have severe or pain for more than four hours, call us immediately. Additionally, reach out to our dental team if you experience any of the following symptoms;
- Nausea and vomiting
- Cough, chest pain, and shortness of breath
- Fever and chills
- Swelling and redness
What to Expect?
The recovery period takes about two weeks where the bone and gum tissue grows into the gap.
Don’t be alarmed when you notice blood clots forming in the tooth socket. They are needed for the healing process. Moreover, you should protect them from breaking. Because once they break, they will expose the bone causing a dry socket to occur. The dentist may apply a sedative on the socket for a few days to protect it.
Tooth Extraction Aftercare
The following tips can help minimize pain and reduce the risk of infection;
- Use ice packs on the affected tooth immediately after the procedure to reduce swelling
- Bite gently a gauze pad to reduce bleeding. This also allows the clot to form in the tooth socket. Use the pads for three to four hours after the teeth have been pulled
- Take the pain medications as directed by the dentist
- Don’t smoke as it will inhibit healing
- Don’t use a straw while drinking to avoid dislodging the socket
- Elevate your head while lying down
- Rinse your mouth with saline water to keep bacteria off
- Eat soft foods, soups, and pudding the first few days, and gradually begin to introduce other foods.
- Relax for the first 24 hours and limit activity for the next two days
- Don’t rinse your mouth forcefully
- Brush and floss daily avoiding the extraction area
Call Us Today
Are you are looking for tooth extraction in New Britain, Connecticut? Call us today. We offer a variety of dental procedures such as extractions, dental implants, and bonding among others.