One of the primary goals of dental medicine is the preservation of teeth, but it is sometimes necessary to remove a troublesome tooth to protect the health of the rest of the smile. While tooth extraction is a remarkably common procedure, it’s perfectly normal to be a little surprised or even anxious when you learn you need one. Here’s a brief guide to how tooth extractions work and why they may be necessary.
Why Would Tooth Extraction Be Necessary?
It may be necessary to remove a tooth for reasons such as:
- Extensive decay: A tooth that is severely infected may be beyond saving. In this case, removing it may be necessary to prevent further damage such as secondary infections in the other teeth or other parts of the body.
- Severe injury: A dental injury that exposes the tooth’s pulp to the external environment or results in a crack running beneath the gumline can leave the tooth susceptible to destructive infections. Removing it may be the best way to preserve the patient’s oral health.
- Insufficient room: Sometimes, a patient does not have enough room in their mouth to accommodate all their adult teeth, which can lead to crowding and infections. This is often the case with wisdom tooth removals.
- Making space for orthodontic treatment: It is sometimes necessary to remove certain teeth to ensure that an orthodontic appliance such as braces has enough room to execute the movements necessary to straighten a smile.
How Are Tooth Extractions Performed?
To perform a tooth extraction, your dentist will begin by administering an appropriate anesthetic to ensure that you feel no pain, and you may also receive a sedation treatment if you need a little extra help staying calm throughout the procedure. Once you are comfortable, they will use a device called an articulator to lift the targeted tooth from its socket and gently work it loose from its connective tissues. Depending on the anesthesia received, you may require a trusted individual to give you a ride home afterward.
How Can I Stay Comfortable After Tooth Extraction?
You can expect some discomfort after having a tooth extracted, but adhering to your dentist’s aftercare instructions will help you keep your healing process complication-free and as comfortable as possible. You can expect these to include:
- Refrain from chewing around the surgical site.
- Stick to soft and mild foods until you can enjoy tougher and more flavorful fare comfortably.
- Brush and floss normally but take care when cleaning around the extraction site.
- Use prescribed or over-the-counter pain medication as instructed.
Tooth extraction can save a patient from nasty oral infections and end chronic pain. If your dentist recommends this procedure, you can rest assured that it is in your best interest.
About the Author
Dr. Justin Garner earned his degree at the UMKC School of Dentistry and completed his Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency at the University of Michigan. He is proud to be a member of the American Dental Association and the Missouri Dental Association. His office in Independence offers general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as extraction services. To learn more about tooth extractions, contact his office online or dial (816) 252-0055.