Tooth extractions are necessary in cases where a tooth cannot be repaired or saved due to gum disease, decay, or infection. They may also be required for room-making or to prevent misalignment. While common, restorative dentistry options can help rectify the loss of a tooth.
The type of tooth extraction required depends on variables such as tooth location, damage severity, and impacted facial features. Simple extractions remove visible teeth without incisions, using local anesthetic and Nitrous Oxide. Recovery from simple extractions is usually quick.
Tooth extraction can be more complex in some cases, requiring an incision. Such surgical extractions are typically done by an oral surgeon for impacted or inaccessible teeth, or those with curved roots, bone or teeth infections, broken teeth with roots below the gum line, overly large sinuses, or third molars (wisdom teeth).
Proper aftercare is essential after a tooth extraction to promote healing and prevent complications. The gap will be packed with gauze, and you should rest for 24 hours to avoid dislodging the blood clot. Avoid hard foods, take an anti-inflammatory, and rinse with warm water to clean the area. Don’t drink with a straw as it may rupture the healing tissue. If you have stitches, your dentist will advise if they need to be removed or will dissolve on their own.
A dry socket is a dental condition that can occur after a tooth extraction. It happens when the blood clot that forms in the socket where the tooth was extracted becomes dislodged or dissolves, exposing the underlying bone and nerves. This can cause significant pain and discomfort, as well as increase the risk of infection. Dry socket usually occurs within a few days of the extraction and can be treated by a dentist or oral surgeon.
