Tooth Extractions: What You Need To Know

While our Dallas dentists will always strive to save your natural tooth, sometimes a tooth extraction may be the best remedy for your oral health, function, and sometimes appearance.

This article looks at instances when a tooth extraction may be necessary and what you should consider when getting an extraction.

When Is Tooth Extraction Necessary?

Generally, your dentist can recommend tooth removal if you have the following:

• Severe tooth decay, chips, or fractures: Whenever possible, dental professionals will always try to save a natural tooth with restorative treatments like dental fillings, root canals, dental crowns, and inlays and Onlays. However, tooth removal may be necessary if your tooth is extremely damaged to support these restorations.
• An impacted wisdom tooth: Sometimes, the jaw might be small to accommodate a wisdom tooth. It can result in the tooth getting trapped under the gum line or growing at the wrong angle. It can cause pain and other complications. Tooth extraction may be necessary to remove the tooth to eliminate the discomfort and prevent further problems.
• Crowded teeth: Overcrowding happens when there isn’t enough room in the jaw for permanent teeth to grow normally. Tooth extraction may be necessary to remove overcrowding and allow other teeth to grow normally.
• Severe gum disease: Advanced gum disease or periodontitis can damage the tooth’s roots and supporting structures like the jawbone, causing the need for a tooth extraction.
• Severe dental trauma: A fall, sport, or car accident can cause severe injuries to a tooth, necessitating tooth extraction.
• Baby teeth: If baby teeth don’t fall out in time, tooth extraction may be necessary to pave the way for adult teeth to come in.
• Orthodontic treatment: When aligning teeth with orthodontic treatments, tooth extraction may be necessary to create room for teeth to move easily in the desired direction.

What to Consider When Getting Dental Extractions

Tooth extraction is never a great experience. To prepare accordingly, below are a few factors to keep in mind:

• Initial consultation

Before removing the tooth, the dentist will review your medical history. While tooth removals are common and generally safe, the dentist will want to ensure you don’t have underlying health issues that can cause complications.

Tell the dentist if you are pregnant or have health issues like diabetes, liver disease, impaired immune system, heart defects, and heart problems. The dentist might also ask about lifestyle habits like smoking and alcohol or drug use. The exam might also involve x-rays. Visit our office for tooth extractions near you.

• Tooth extractions can be simple or surgical.

The condition of your tooth will determine the procedure of extraction. A simple extraction happens when the tooth is visible and accessible above the gum line. The dentist uses an elevator and a pair of forceps to remove the tooth.

A surgical extraction may be necessary if a tooth is broken or trapped under the gum line. In this case, the dentist or surgeon makes an incision into the gums and sometimes bone to remove the underlying tooth. The area is then stitched for quick healing.

• Local anesthesia

Whether you have a simple or surgical extraction, the dentist will numb your mouth with a local anesthetic. Sometimes they may provide sedation to relax you or put you to sleep during the procedure. The dentist will discuss sedation details before the extraction.  If you are sedated, arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure and, if possible, stay with you until the sedation wears off.

• Post-extraction aftercare instructions

After the extraction, the dentist will give you a few guidelines that you must follow strictly to ensure a quick recovery and reduce the risk of complications like infections and dry sockets. These can include:

• Keep the gauze in place until the bleeding stops
• Take medication as directed
• Wait until the anesthetic wears off completely before eating
• Use an ice pack on the face to manage pain and swelling
• Take a soft diet like scrambled eggs, yogurt, mashed potatoes, and soft vegetables
• Rest and avoid strenuous activities
• Maintain excellent oral hygiene. Follow the dentist’s instructions about when to resume normal brushing and flossing.
• Avoid hard, hot, and crunchy foods items
• Attend your follow-up appointments

• Replacement options

Depending on why and which tooth was removed, you can replace the tooth or teeth with replacement options like dental implants, bridges, or dentures. Your dentist will help you choose the right treatment to restore your bite.

Schedule an Appointment Today

For more information about tooth extractions in Dallas, TX, contact Trinity Dental Loft.