When Is Tooth Extraction Recommended?

When your teeth are severely damaged, our dentist may recommend a tooth extraction. With this procedure, the dentist will pull the tooth from the gum to protect the surrounding teeth and prevent further damage. Depending on the severity of the damage, the dentist may perform either surgical or simple extraction.

A surgical extraction is done when the damaged teeth are hidden and not easily accessed while the simple procedure is for the visible teeth.

Tooth extraction is not a routine dental treatment, but it is done as a last resort to save the teeth. That’s why before the procedure, our dentist will evaluate your teeth and determine if you are eligible for tooth extraction.

Why do we perform extractions? Here are a few reasons:

1. To save the surrounding teeth and stop the spread of decay

Poor oral hygiene causes plaques to form thus creating a perfect environment for bacteria to fester. If not cleaned off on time, it will lead to the multiplication of bacteria that affect your soft tissue and cause decay.

Although professional deep cleaning can help remove tooth decay, in severe cases the dentist will have to remove the teeth. Tooth extraction not only stops the spread of decay but also preserve the other teeth.

2. Severe damage due to periodontal disease

Periodontal disease causes the teeth ligament fiber to deteriorate and weaken. Scaling and root planning are the recommended treatment, but in severe cases, the dentist will recommend a tooth extraction.

3. Impacted teeth

When our permanent teeth fail to emerge from the gum, they could become entrapped. Impacted teeth cause pain, swelling and can increase the risk of decay. Tooth extraction is the treatment of choice for impacted teeth.

4. Accidents

A dental accident of any kind should be treated as a dental emergency because, in some cases, the teeth may crack, chip and dislodge from the root creating a need for an extraction.

In minor dental issues such as cracked or chipped teeth, bridges or veneers may be used. However, if the teeth are irreparable, then extraction is the way to go.

5. Crowded teeth

Dental crowding is best addressed at a young age when the teeth are still developing, However, if the dental situation isn’t rectified on time, it could cause crowding because the mouth lacks enough space for the permanent teeth. Tooth extraction is done to remove extra teeth and also prepare the mouth for orthodontia for proper teeth alignment.

6. To avoid and infection

When you are about to undergo an organ transplant or chemotherapy, the slightest infection in a tooth is reason enough to extract it.

What to Expect After Tooth Extraction?

Pain and discomfort are to be expected until the site heals. Furthermore, a blood clot will form in the socket to facilitate healing. This blood clot is critical and if it breaks, it will lead to a dry socket that causes excruciating pain.

Bleeding is a post-extraction occurrence, but if it lasts for more than 12 hours visit our dental clinic for treatment. Also seek dental help if you have severe chills, fever, cough, chest pain, nausea, and vomiting.

Tooth Extraction Aftercare Tips

You can minimize pain and risk of infection with the following tips:

• Use ice therapy to reduce swelling
• Use a gauze pad for the first three to four hours to stop bleeding and allow the clot the form
• Take antibiotics and pain relievers as prescribed by the dentist to reduce the risk of infection and alleviate pain
• Don’t smoke, drink alcohol, and using a straw which can cause the socket to break
• Sleep with your head elevated to reduce pain
• Use salt water to rinse your mouth
• For the first few days, eat soft foods only to promote healing

What to Do Before the Tooth Extraction?

It is important to know the tooth extraction cost, so call us for a discussion on the cost and the financial plans. Additionally, speak to your insurance provider about the dental coverage they offer. Some of the insurance covers to cater to tooth extractions depending on the cause.