Dental professionals work with their patients to help them keep their natural teeth for a long time. However, they are not always successful due to issues affecting the teeth. Read on about tooth extraction to learn its process, aftercare tips, and benefits.
What is Tooth Extraction?
It is a dental procedure performed in a dental office setting to eliminate damaged, misaligned or diseased teeth. There are two types of dental extraction carried out by the dentist at 75061. these are surgical and simple extractions. Both procedures are performed after the administration of anesthesia and a sedative. They help you relax during the extraction and prevent pain.
Why Do You Need a Tooth Extraction?
Dental extractions are performed following the advisement of a dental professional. The expert will evaluate your mouth and oral health before recommending an extraction. A dental extraction may be necessary if you have either of the problems below.
- Cavities that lead to root canal infections
- Dental crowding or misalignment
- Impacted teeth
- Severe gum disease
- Risk of infection due to poor immunity
- Severe dental trauma
- Baby teeth not falling out at the right time
What is the Step-By-Step Procedure for Getting a Tooth Extraction?
Here is what to expect during getting dental extraction near you:
- Our dentist in Irving, TX will assess the tooth to be removed and the surrounding tissues. Doing so will help them determine the type of extraction procedure necessary. They will also evaluate your oral and overall health and ask about the medications you are using.
- Next, the expert will numb the tooth to be extracted and the surrounding gum tissues to prevent pain. They will also administer sedation to calm you for the procedure.
- Next, they will remove the tooth from its sockets and attach ligaments. The dentist will rock the tooth back and forth to enlarge its socket during a simple extraction. They will then grasp it using dental forceps and pull it out. However, the process is a bit complex during a surgical extraction. The dentist will cut into the gums and bones surrounding the tooth. They may section the tooth into smaller pieces and then remove it.
- Then, they will remove any infected tissue or loose bone from the socket. Next, they will compress the socket with a finger to restore it to its initial size. After a surgical extraction, they will round off any sharp edges of bone and suture the gums close.
- Then, they will apply gauze to the wound to minimize bleeding and promote clot formation.
- Finally, the dentist will instruct you on caring for the area to prevent complications and aid healing.
What are the Benefits of Getting a Tooth Extraction?
You can expect the below benefits after getting a tooth extraction:
- Extractions followed by orthodontics or teeth restoration can help achieve your smile goals.
- Removing a tooth relieves the pain caused by impaction, damage, or disease.
- Removing loose teeth during periodontal therapy helps to treat or manage gum disease.
- Pulling out an infected tooth reduces the risk of infection to the rest of the teeth in the mouth.
- It helps to prevent infection for patients undergoing radiation or chemotherapy to the head or neck.
What are the Aftercare Tips for Tooth Extraction?
Proper aftercare following an extraction will help the socket to heal correctly. It will also eliminate possible complications. Below are some tips for caring for your mouth after dental extraction:
- Keep consistent pressure on the gauze to control bleeding. Leave the pad for 3-4 hours following the extraction. However, you can change it when soaked with blood or saliva.
- Ease the pain and inflammation by taking the recommended pain medications. You can also place an ice pack or compression on the area to alleviate pain.
- Maintain oral hygiene by brushing, flossing, and rinsing your mouth with salty water. However, do not brush near the socket.
- Apply a cold compress to control swelling at the socket and surrounding area.
- Avoid touching or disturbing the wound. The blood clot may be displaced, leading to a painful dry socket. So, avoid spitting, using a straw, rinsing the mouth vigorously, smoking, or taking alcohol.
Get Tooth Extraction Near You
Tooth extractions are performed when necessary. They improve your oral health and appearance. Schedule an appointment at Sterling Dental Center today to get a tooth extraction in Irving, TX!