Tooth extraction is a dental procedure that involves removing a tooth from its socket. This may be necessary for a variety of reasons, including severe decay, infection, or overcrowding. If you're scheduled for a tooth extraction, it is important to understand what to expect during the procedure and how to care for your mouth afterward as your Preston dentist instruct you.
Reasons for tooth extraction
There are various reasons why a person would get a tooth extraction. According to web search results, some of the common reasons are:
Severe tooth decay, infection, or damage that cannot be repaired.
Gum disease that affects the tissues and bones that support the tooth.
Crowding of teeth prevents proper alignment or interferes with orthodontic treatment.
Impacted wisdom teeth that do not have enough space to grow or cause problems for other teeth.
Medical conditions that require removal of compromised teeth, such as chemotherapy or organ transplant.
If you have any of these conditions, you should consult your Preston dentist at Bright Smile Dental Clinic for advice on whether you need a tooth extraction.
The tooth extraction process
The tooth extraction process depends on whether your tooth is visible or impacted and the process is as follows:
For a visible tooth, your Coburg dentist will give you a local anesthetic to numb the area around your tooth. They will then use an instrument called an elevator to loosen the tooth and forceps to remove it.
For an impacted tooth, your Coburg dentist or oral surgeon will make a small cut in your gum and remove any bone that covers the tooth. They may also need to cut the tooth into pieces before removing it.
After the tooth extraction, your dentist in Preston will clean the socket and apply gauze to stop the bleeding. You may also need stitches to close the wound. You will be given painkillers and instructions on how to care for your mouth during recovery.
Possible complications and risks
Tooth extraction is a surgical procedure that carries a small risk of complications. Some of the possible complications and risks are:
Bleeding:
It is normal to have some bleeding after the extraction, but excessive or prolonged bleeding may indicate a problem with blood clotting or wound healing.
Infection:
There is a risk of infection in the socket or surrounding tissues, especially if you have a weakened immune system or pre-existing dental conditions. Signs of infection include fever, pus, swelling, and foul smell.
Dry socket:
This is a painful condition that occurs when the blood clot in the socket is dislodged or dissolved, exposing the bone and nerves. Dry sockets can delay healing and increase the risk of infection.
Nerve injury:
This is a rare but serious complication that can cause numbness, tingling, or pain in the lower lip, chin, tongue, or teeth. Nerve injury can be temporary or permanent, depending on the severity and location of the damage.
Perforation of maxillary sinus:
This is another rare but serious complication that can occur when an upper molar tooth is extracted, and the sinus membrane is torn. This can cause sinus infection, bleeding, or communication between the mouth and the sinus.
Delayed healing:
Some factors can slow down the healing process, such as smoking, poor oral hygiene, diabetes, or other medical conditions. Delayed healing can increase the risk of other complications and prolong discomfort.
Generally, tooth extraction is a safe and routine procedure, there are some potential complications and risks to be aware of. These can include bleeding, infection, nerve damage, and damage to surrounding teeth or structures. Your Preston dentist will discuss these risks with you before the procedure and take steps to minimise them.
It’s important to follow all post-operative instructions and contact your Coburg dentist at Bright Smile Dental Clinic if you experience any unusual symptoms or complications.
