Dental extractions are procedures that involve removing one or more teeth from the mouth. There are many reasons why a dentist may recommend or perform a dental extraction, such as:
- Severe tooth decay or infection that cannot be treated with a filling, crown, or root canal therapy.
- Gum disease (periodontal disease) that has damaged the supporting tissues and bone around the tooth.
- A broken or cracked tooth that cannot be repaired.
- An impacted tooth that is causing pain, swelling, or damage to the adjacent teeth or gums. This is often the case with wisdom teeth, which are the last molars to erupt in the mouth.
- A crowded mouth that does not have enough space for all the teeth. This may require removing some teeth to prepare for orthodontic treatment, such as braces or aligners.
- A cosmetic reason, such as removing a discolored or malformed tooth that affects the appearance of the smile.
The procedure of dental extraction varies depending on the type and location of the tooth, as well as the patient’s health and preferences. In general, there are two types of dental extractions: simple and surgical.
As dental professionals, it is our aim to help you keep your natural teeth for as long as possible. In some cases, an extraction may be demeed the best course of action, but prior to this, we will always discuss gap management options with you first.
A simple extraction is done when the tooth is visible and easily accessible in the mouth.
The dentist will use a local anesthetic to numb the area around the tooth and then use a special tool called an elevator to loosen the tooth from its socket. The dentist will then use another tool called a forceps to grasp and gently pull out the tooth.
A surgical extraction is done when the tooth is not fully erupted or is broken below the gum line. The dentist will make a small incision in the gum to expose the tooth and may need to remove some bone or cut the tooth into pieces to extract it.
The dentist will use a local anesthetic, and sometimes sedation may be used, to make the patient comfortable during the procedure. The dentist will then close the wound with stitches, which will dissolve or be removed after a few days.
After a dental extraction, the patient will need to follow some instructions to ensure proper healing and prevent complications, such as:
- Applying pressure on the extraction site with a gauze pad or a clean cloth to stop any bleeding.
- Taking painkillers as prescribed or advised by the dentist to relieve any discomfort.
- Avoiding rinsing, spitting, smoking, drinking through a straw, or eating hard or sticky foods for the first 24 hours after the extraction.
- Rinsing gently with warm salt water after 24 hours and after every meal to keep the area clean and prevent infection.
- Eating soft foods and chewing on the opposite side of the mouth until the extraction site heals.
- Applying ice packs on the cheek or jaw to reduce any swelling or bruising.
- Sleeping with an extra pillow to elevate the head and reduce bleeding.
- Contacting the dentist if there is any sign of infection, such as fever, severe pain, pus, or bad odor from the mouth.
Dental extractions are common and safe procedures that can help improve oral health and function. However, they should be considered as a last resort when other treatments are not possible or effective. The best way to prevent dental extractions is to maintain good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting the dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings.
Gap Management Options
Losing a tooth can affect your appearance, your oral health, and your quality of life. Fortunately, there are different ways to replace a missing tooth and restore your smile. The best option for you depends on several factors, such as the number of missing teeth, the condition of your remaining teeth, your budget, and your personal preferences. Here are some of the most common tooth replacement options available:
- Dental implants: A dental implant is a titanium post that is surgically inserted into the jawbone to act as an artificial root for a replacement tooth. The implant fuses with the bone over time and provides a stable and durable base for the tooth. A crown, bridge, or denture can be attached to the implant to replace one or more teeth. Dental implants look and feel like natural teeth and can last for decades with proper care.
- Fixed dental bridge: A fixed dental bridge is a prosthetic device that consists of one or more artificial teeth attached to a metal frame. The frame is cemented to the adjacent natural teeth or implants that serve as supports for the bridge. A fixed dental bridge can fill the gap left by one or more missing teeth and improve the appearance and function of your bite. However, it also involves altering the healthy teeth on either side of the gap, which can increase the risk of decay or damage.
- Removable partial denture: A removable partial denture is a set of artificial teeth that are attached to a plastic base that matches the color of your gums. The denture can be removed for cleaning and sleeping. It may have metal clasps or attachments that connect to your natural teeth to hold it in place. A removable partial denture can replace one or more teeth and restore your smile and chewing ability. However, it may not fit as securely as a fixed bridge or an implant and may cause discomfort or irritation to your gums or tongue.
These are some of the most common tooth replacement options available. Prior to having an extraction, we will discuss all options with you so you can make the best decision to manage the gap. If you have a tooth or teeth that may need to be extracted and you would like to find out your options, please do not hesitate to book your dental assessment today.
