Tooth & Wisdom Tooth Extractions

Tooth extractions, just the name can make people cringe. When a tooth has been badly damaged due to trauma, tooth decay or is broken, it may have to be extracted if other methods don’t work. There are two types of tooth extractions: simple and surgical. 

Types of Tooth Extractions

A simple extraction involves the removal of a tooth that is visible in the mouth. Generally, simple extractions can be done in clinic by your dentist.  The procedure isn’t overly complicated, usually you’d be administered a local anesthetic or your mouth will be frozen and then your dentist will remove your affect tooth. During the procedure it won’t be painful but most patients report feeling pressure. 

Surgical extractions are done by an oral surgeon on teeth that aren’t visible in the mouth. Similar to assumptions, you will be put under general anesthesia and undergo surgery. You may also receive a prescription pain medication post-surgery. 

Why might I need a tooth extraction?

Individual might need tooth extractions for a number of reasons and not all due to damage or tooth decay. Other reasons for tooth extractions include: 

• Pulling teeth for braces (which give teeth space to shift as they get in alignment)

• Pulling teeth for space (some teeth are removed if there is no space for them in the mouth or if they become impacted or infected)

• Pulling teeth because of damage or decay (when a tooth is too badly damaged or decay past the point of a crown)

Is there anything else I should know?

Tooth extractions sound scarier than they actually are, both the actual procedure and post-procedure are pretty simple. After your procedure, keep these tips in mind 

Tips

• Ice will be your best friend: Ice your affected area for 10 minutes at a time to help reduce swelling

• Eat soft foods: Stick to mainly liquids immediately after and limit your diet to soft food for the first few days. 

• After 24 hours, swish your mouth with a salt water solution to help keep your mouth clean