Tooth extractions are performed hundreds of times each day across the country, but they can still be unnerving for some patients. Unfortunately, there are some instances where the tooth must be removed to ensure oral cavity health. The good news is that with modern-day sedation dentistry techniques, patients will remain comfortable and relaxed during the surgical procedure.
The medical term for tooth extractions is exodontia, and it’s the process of completely removing a tooth from its socket. Extraction becomes necessary when a tooth is damaged by disease, decay, or physical trauma. We perform these treatments to prevent further damage or the progression of decay.
Once a tooth is removed, replacing it as soon as possible is crucial to prevent issues like jawbone deterioration or tooth misalignment.
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A simple extraction is performed on a tooth that is visible in the mouth and can be grasped with dental forceps. It’s a straightforward process involving loosening and removing the tooth without cutting into the gums. Simple extractions generally require only local anesthesia and have a quicker healing process.
A surgical extraction addresses teeth that have not fully erupted or are impacted. In some situations, we may need to break the tooth into smaller sections to help during the process. Surgical extractions are often performed when removing wisdom teeth.
After an extraction, you can expect some bleeding, which can be controlled by biting on a gauze pad. Swelling and mild discomfort can also be expected for a few days. Apply ice packs to the affected area and take prescribed pain medication as needed.
Closely follow all post-operative instructions to ensure a smooth healing process and avoid complications like dry socket. Most importantly, get adequate rest and allow time for the extraction site to heal.
If you have a tooth that needs to be removed, come see us today at the office for an evaluation. We will be more than happy to go over the details with you during this appointment. Contact Bonnie & Simone today!
