DENTAL EXTRACTION
Tooth extractions
Tooth extraction is not something done by our Indian heroes with a single punch but it’s something which has to be done with more care. So, let us help you to explain the necessity for dental extractions, procedure and post care to be taken. In adulthood having a tooth pulled is sometimes necessary.
Why tooth/dental extractions are performed?
Although permanent teeth were meant to last a lifetime, there are a number of reasons why tooth extraction may be needed. Some major reasons are
- Due to tooth decay
- Periodontal disease
- Dental trauma
- A crowded mouth
- Risk of infection
- Impacted wisdom teeth
- People getting braces may also need
Why tooth/dental extractions are performed?
Although having a tooth pulled is usually very safe, the procedure can allow harmful bacteria into the bloodstream. Gum tissue is also at risk of infection. If you have a condition that puts you at high risk for developing a severe infection, you may need to take antibiotics before and after the extraction. Before having a tooth pulled, let our dentist know your complete medical history, the medications and supplements you take, and if you have one of the following:
- Congenital heart defect
- Impaired immune system
- History of bacterial endocarditis
- Liver disease
What is the procedure for tooth extraction?
Pre procedure
Our dentist will find out the root cause of the pain of the tooth, your medial history is also understood. The tooth will be physically checked by us. Radiographs are not always necessary but are often to confirm the diagnosis and treatment. Radiographs helps in understanding the size and shape of the roots which are being planned for extraction.
Step 1: Numb the teeth
Before the extraction local anaesthesia will be given to ensure the tooth and surrounding gums are numb. Infiltration and nerve block are the most commonly used anaesthesia techniques.
Step 2: Tooth removal
Simple extractions: These are performed on tooth that can be seen in the mouth. During a simple extraction, our dentist will numb the tooth and gum tissue and loosen the tooth with an instrument called an elevator before removing it with dental forceps. Surgical extractions: This is a bit complex procedure that is used for a tooth that may have broken off at the gumline or has not come into the mouth yet. Our oral surgeons usually perform surgical extractions. During a surgical extraction, our surgeons will make a small incision (cut) into your gum and remove the underlying tooth. Sometimes they will need to remove some of the bone around the tooth or cut the tooth in half to extract it.
Step 3: Achieving haemostasis
To stop the bleeding firm pressure is applied by biting down on a piece of sterile gauze over the socket. Bleeding can either be from soft tissues or hard tissues. Bleeding from soft tissues can be controlled by several means including stitches or using chemicals. Hard tissue or bony bleeding can be arrested by using haemostatic gauze and bone wax or electrocautery.
What is the procedure for tooth extraction?
Extraction recover typically needs a few days. The following can help to minimize discomfort, reduce the risk of infection and helps in speedy recovery.
- Take prescribed painkillers
- Bite gently on the gauze pad to help the blood clot on the site of tooth extracted
- Applying ice bag to keep down swelling
- Relax for 24 hours after extraction. Also, limit activity for the next day or two
- Avoid forceful rinsing or spitting for 24 hours after extraction to avoid dislodging the clot that forms in the socket.
- Do not drink from a straw for the first 24 hours.
- Do not smoke, which can inhibit healing.
- Eat soft foods, such as soup, pudding, yogurt, or applesauce the day after the extraction. Gradually add solid foods to your diet as the extraction site heals.
- Continue to brush and floss your teeth, and brush your tongue, but be sure to avoid the extraction site. Doing so will help prevent infection.
- Try to avoid splitting blood, which increases the clotting time.
For what concerns after extraction, should I visit dentist?
The normal healing process may take up-to 10 days but it is ideal to call or visit us/your dentist in case you experience these worsening symptoms.
- Take prescribed painkillers
- Bite gently on the gauze pad to help the blood clot on the site of tooth extracted
- Applying ice bag to keep down swelling
- Relax for 24 hours after extraction. Also, limit activity for the next day or two
- Avoid forceful rinsing or spitting for 24 hours after extraction to avoid dislodging the clot that forms in the socket.
- Do not drink from a straw for the first 24 hours.
- Do not smoke, which can inhibit healing.
- Eat soft foods, such as soup, pudding, yogurt, or applesauce the day after the extraction. Gradually add solid foods to your diet as the extraction site heals.
- Continue to brush and floss your teeth, and brush your tongue, but be sure to avoid the extraction site. Doing so will help prevent infection.
- Try to avoid splitting blood, which increases the clotting time.
Does tooth extraction hurt?
Yes, getting a tooth pulled can hurt. However, our dentist will typically give your local anaesthesia during the procedure to eliminate the pain. And after the treatment with prescribed pain killers you can manage the pain. As different people heal at different speeds, you’ll most likely have tenderness and discomfort in the area of the extraction for a 1–3 days. You may experience tightness and stiffness to your jaw and joint because of keeping your mouth open during the procedure. If the pain persists or becomes more severe around day 3, you might have a dry socket. Dry socket occurs when the blood clot in the extraction socket didn’t form or has been dislodged, and the bone of the socket walls becomes exposed. Dry socket is typically treated with a medicated gel that your dentist places in the socket to cover up the socket.