Extractions

Infections, severe tooth decay, wisdom teeth, and crowded growth – there is only one solution to these dental issues. Tooth extraction seems excruciatingly unpleasant, yet it is required to prevent the problem from deteriorating. Delaying or avoiding treatment puts you at risk of infecting nearby healthy teeth, which may also require extraction before they fall out.

Reasons for getting a tooth extraction

• Tooth decay
• Impacted tooth
• Fractured tooth
• Severe gum disease
• Dental injury
• Crowded tooth
• Tooth luxation

The procedure: what is actually done?

Step 1: Your dentist will administer a local anesthetic to the immediate region around the tooth to ensure that the treatment goes smoothly and comfortably. To further reduce any pain caused by the injection itself, your dentist may decide to administer a topical anesthetic gel prior to the injection.

Step 2: The periodontal ligament fibers that hold the tooth in the bone socket must be loosened in order to properly extract the tooth from the mouth, regardless of the state of the tooth that is being removed.

Step 3: To make the loose tooth even looser, a specific dental instrument called an elevator is used. This works by gently enlarging the pliable bony housing around the tooth, making it easier to remove.

Step 4: The dentist will grip the loosened tooth with forceps and remove it from the mouth.

Step 5: Your dentist will recommend replacing the extracted tooth. In such cases, your dentist may perform a ridge preservation procedure using a socket graft immediately following a simple tooth extraction. This involves placing bone graft material in the emptied tooth socket to slow down the bone reabsorption process. Finally, to help in the healing process, sutures may be used.

What occurs following a tooth extraction?

Once the treatment is finished, your dentist will cover the extraction site with a piece of gauze and instruct you to apply firm, consistent pressure. By doing so, the bleeding is slowed, and a blood clot might develop. Clotting is a typical part of healing. It encourages healing and lowers the chance of developing dry sockets. Once the bleeding has sufficiently subsided, you can remove the gauze. Throughout the first 24 hours, you may continue to experience minor bleeding.

Aftercare for Tooth Extraction

Your dentist will provide you with a thorough set of post-surgical instructions after your extraction. Following are some general guidelines for a quick recovery:

• Keep the extraction area clean. Rinse the region gently two to three times each day with an antibacterial mouthwash. Brushing directly over your extraction site should be avoided until your dentist says it is safe to do so. Brush and floss all other areas as usual.
• Take all prescription drugs as prescribed. In addition to painkillers, your dentist could recommend antibiotics. It's crucial to take these medicines exactly as prescribed. Additionally, you can use over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen and ibuprofen.
• For at least two days, refrain from heavy activities. A higher heart rate might result in more postoperative bleeding and pain. Skip the gym for the first 48 to 72 hours. Consult your dentist to determine when it is safe to resume normal activities.

At Dental Smile-Savers, we understand that tooth extractions can be a necessary step in maintaining overall oral health. Whether due to severe decay, impaction, or other underlying issues, our highly skilled team is proficient in performing a wide range of extractions with precision and care. If you are in need of expert tooth extraction services in the Bronx, New York, Dental Smile-Savers is here to serve you. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Finlay and the team.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Why might I need a tooth extraction?

Tooth extraction may be necessary due to severe decay, infection, overcrowding, gum disease, trauma, or as part of orthodontic treatment.

Q: How should I care for the extraction site after the procedure?

Follow your dentist's instructions, which may include applying gauze, taking prescribed pain medication, avoiding certain foods, and maintaining proper oral hygiene to promote healing.

Q: What are potential complications of tooth extractions?

Complications may include infection, dry socket (loss of blood clot), nerve damage, or jawbone fractures. Following post-extraction care instructions minimizes risks.

Q: Why are wisdom teeth often extracted?

Wisdom teeth are frequently extracted due to impaction, crowding, infection, or potential damage to surrounding teeth and gums.

Q: Can extracted teeth be replaced with dental implants?

Yes, dental implants are a popular option for replacing extracted teeth, providing a stable, long-term solution for restoring function and aesthetics. Visit Dental Smile-Savers, your one-stop destination for all your dental needs.