Tooth Extraction As dentists, we will often work hard to save a tooth for preventing it from being removed. Often, we recommend restoration options such as a dental crown or a veneer to help save it. However, some of our patients do have teeth that simply cannot be salvaged and will require extraction. Common reasons that a tooth may need to be removed include severe tooth decay, infection, trauma or injury to the tooth, or overcrowding. When we here at Raptou Family Dental have a patient sitting in our exam chair who requires an extraction on a tooth, we want them to feel safe, calm, and confident that we will both professionally and gently remove their affected tooth to give them the best possible outcome. What Occurs During a Dental Extraction?Regardless of the type of extraction that you require, we will first begin by taking a series of X-rays of your mouth to give us a better idea of the affected tooth and how to proceed. Depending on why we are removing your tooth, and the overall condition of the tooth, we may proceed with one of two types of extractions. Simple extractions are quite common and normally require just local anesthetic to allow us to remove the tooth. Patients who may be feeling nervous about the procedure, however, may be good candidates for intravenous (IV) sedation or inhaled sedation (such as nitrous oxide). To perform a simple extraction, we will first carefully loosen the tooth with a special tool called an elevator. Once your tooth is sufficiently loose, we will then reach in and grip the tooth with our forceps and ease it out of your mouth. Occasionally a simple extraction will not be enough for the tooth. The other type of dental extraction that may occur is called a surgical extraction. There are a few different reasons that we may have to surgically extract a tooth. If the tooth has not yet erupted from the gumline, we may have to remove it surgically. Another common reason that we may have to remove it surgically is if the tooth has broken off, especially if pieces remain embedded in the gums. Surgical extractions often require a combination of both local and IV or inhaled sedation. We will place an incision into the gums to expose the damaged tooth, then remove it with our tools. Sometimes we do need to remove a small portion of bone tissue to get all of the tooth out. After The ProcedureAfter your dental extraction, we will send you home with aftercare instructions. Please make sure you pay close attention to them to avoid complications. Dry socket can sometimes occur after dental extraction, an extremely painful condition that occurs when the clot over the extraction site becomes dislodged. Avoid using a drinking straw or swishing water vigorously after the procedure to prevent this from happening. Eat soft foods, and if you start to notice any signs of an infection or complication, such as foul discharge, excessive bleeding, or running a fever, please notify us right away. Tooth extractions are an experience most people fear, especially if they get them for the first time. These extractions can be necessary for many reasons, from tooth decay to disease that erodes the tooth over time. At Raptou Family Dental, Dr. Raptou and will ensure a smooth process, from consultation to the procedure itself. What is a Tooth Extraction?A tooth extraction, also called a dental extraction, is a procedure that removes teeth from the socket located on top of the jawbone. Due to the pulling motion of the extraction, this procedure is commonly referred to as getting your teeth “pulled.” If you are wondering, “why would I need to get a tooth extracted,” here are some reasons:
Before suggesting extraction, a dentist will usually try all the procedures possible to save the tooth, including a crown or filling. However, sometimes the tooth is beyond repair, so it needs to be extracted before it affects nearby teeth. How Long Does a Tooth Extraction Take?Your doctor might ask you to follow some steps before and after the extraction procedure that you must see all the way through. Simple tooth extraction is a straightforward procedure that includes a local anesthetic or numbing followed by the extraction, after which you need extra care. On the other hand, a surgical extraction typically includes both a local anesthetic and an intravenous one. Tooth Extraction FAQsThere are probably more than a few questions you may have after your extraction. We have the answers to a few. Can I Brush My Teeth After an Extraction?It is important to avoid brushing the mouth for up to 24 hours post-procedure and take great care of the area afterward. How Soon Can I Eat Ice Cream After a Tooth Extraction?Doctors advise the consumption of soft and cold foods to help the gums heal faster. So you can consume ice cream after your extraction. Tooth Extraction AftercareAftercare is important, so ensure you have someone to take care of you post-procedure. If you experience excessive bleeding or fever, these may be the early signs of an infection. Make sure you ask a family member to stay with you during the first 24 hours. Here are some important things to take care of post-procedure to help with healing:
For More Information and SchedulingFor an appointment and consultation, contact us by calling us at (614) 427-0449 or visiting us at our office. Our examination spots decay ahead of time and allows us to advise a procedure that fits your schedule. |
Contact Raptou Family Dental TodayOur Columbus dentists are the first step to a healthier, happier you! |
