Tooth Extraction While it is true that dentists will always attempt to save a tooth first, at times, it is not achievable. When this is the case, extracting the infected, decayed, injured, or damaged tooth proves a healthier choice for your mouth. Our dentist at The OC Smiles Family Dental conducts an inspection and exam of your mouth and the tooth that is problematic. From the examination, the dentist can tell if the tooth should be pulled out or a different procedure should be performed. Just because you have a toothache does not mean you should have the tooth removed right away.When Do I Get a Tooth Extraction?An obvious case of tooth extraction is when the damage is too extensive that repair cannot restore the tooth. Also, if removing the tooth can help save other teeth and prevent them from being damaged, then extraction may be done. Additionally, a tooth that has been overtaken by a cavity has to be removed. A severely broken tooth that cannot be put back together safely may need to be extracted. Similarly, an overcrowded mouth may necessitate a tooth to be pulled out to allow adequate space for the teeth straightening procedure to be effective. Another reason a dentist may schedule you for extraction is when you have an impacted tooth or wisdom tooth that threatens the health of your gums or other teeth. The Extraction ProcedureTooth extractions are usually performed under anesthesia. Our dentist has to use sedation dentistry so that you do not feel pain. This way, you remain relaxed and comfortable, while the tooth is being pulled out. An extraction may be simple or surgical. A simple extraction is where a tooth can be seen in the mouth. If the tooth is straight and has the crown visible, it can be grasped with forceps and pulled out. A dentist will first loosen up the tooth with an elevator. Thereafter, dental forceps are used to get the tooth out. The dentist places gauze within the extraction site, helping prevent bleeding. In a surgical extraction, our dentist cuts away the gum as well as bone tissue covering the tooth. Using forceps, the dentist grasps the tooth and gently rocks it forth and back in order to loosen it. When the tooth becomes loose from the bone and ligaments, the dentist pulls it out. At times, a tooth may be hard to pull, meaning that it is removed in pieces. The dentist closes the cut gums by stitching the flaps back together. Once the tooth has been extracted, the dentist applies gauze that helps combat bleeding. After Extraction Care TipsEat soft foods once you have received a tooth extraction. You should not brush close to the site, but make sure the other parts are brushed regularly. After about two days, you can return to your normal oral care regimen. If your tooth is persistently and serious aching or it is impacted and affecting the other teeth or causing pain, contact us at The OC Smiles Family Dental. Our dentist will conduct an inspection of the teeth, gums, and mouth. X-rays may also be taken to see every detail of the structures. Upon evaluation, we may consider extraction or another procedure. Call us at (971) 447-0093 to book an appointment. |
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