Extractions

Often times a tooth can be deemed not restorable and may need to be taken out. There may be many causes for an extraction that include but are not limited to very large cavities, broken teeth, or fractures that extend down the length of the tooth. If other treatment options are available your dentist will discuss those with you. An extraction is usually a 1 visit appointment during which the dentist will give you local anesthetic to minimize any discomfort associated with removing a tooth.

Extracting a tooth is not limited to a tooth that has problems. Wisdom teeth are routinely removed due to how they protrude from the gums. If a wisdom tooth is coming out at an angle from the gums and is in contact with the tooth in front of it then this is known as an impacted wisdom tooth. If these impacted wisdom teeth are not removed then you may feel pain and it can cause other teeth to shift. If a wisdom tooth has only partially come in through the gums then a flap of gum tissue may persist over the tooth and this is known as an operculum. This piece of gum tissue over the wisdom tooth can cause food and debris to get stuck under the gum, leading to swelling and a subsequent infection and this is known as pericornitis. This swelling often times subsides on its own, however it is often painful and can cause discomfort. These reasons are often why removing wisdom teeth are considered routine. Often times local anesthetic is enough to minimize discomfort, however it can also be necessary to perform general anesthetic in which you will be sedated throughout the entire procedure.

No matter the reason for a dental extraction, there are a few precautions to take when undergoing this procedure. After the surgery you will need to rest. It is generally recommend that a friend or family member drive you home due to the anesthesia. It can be expected for the area where the tooth was removed to have bleeding for a few hours. The dentist will apply gauze before you go home, and this should be changed every few hours if bleeding persists. If bleeding continues for longer than 24 hours you should call our office for re-evaluation of the extraction area. When you get home it is important to rest while propping your head up. The dentist will also prescribe pain medication as needed to help with any discomfort that may follow the procedure. An ice pack may also be used when you get home in order to minimize any swelling. A cleaning solution may also be provided for you if deemed necessary by the dentist.