TOOTH EXTRACTION

Tooth extractions are quite common in dentistry. There are quite a few reasons that a tooth may have to be pulled which I will explain in further depth. The procedure itself will also be presented along with post operation instructions.

If a tooth has an infection (abscess) then sometimes the dentist will recommend pulling the tooth if a root canal is not feasible in order to save the tooth. Sometimes a root canal is done but it fails and this too will need to be extracted. If someone has a large cavity that has destroyed most of the tooth then this is another reason for a tooth to be extracted. Some people do not have room for their wisdom teeth to erupt and if they are having pain and swelling then this would be another circumstance for extractions.

The procedure of a tooth extraction is as follows. An xray (radiograph) will be taken to view the roots of the tooth and the extent of damage done to the infected tooth. Next the client or guardian will need to sign a consent form for this procedure. A topical numbing gel will then be applied to area where the needle of freezing (anaesthetic) will be inserted. The numbing gel helps ease the discomfort of the needle. Once client is completely frozen then the tooth is extracted with forceps (see illustration) Sometimes in difficult cases, the tooth may have to be cut in 2 or more pieces to extract. If wisdom teeth need to be extracted the client may need to be put to sleep or need laughing gas. With wisdom teeth removal most often stitches(sutures) are placed to close the wound and protect the wound from debris and bacteria entering. Following tooth extraction one must not exercise heavily as this increases blood flow to the wound and can impair the healing process. Avoid extreme temperatures nothing to hot or cold as this can dislodge the clot that is forming and if this happens this is extremely painful. Do not use straws or smoke after extractions as this too can displace clot. Pain medicine maybe prescribed initially.

Most often tooth extractions are a straight forward dental procedure. In some instances though, sedation maybe required as well as pain relievers. It is extremely important to follow the post operation instructions to avoid hampering the healing process. It is also helpful, to increase your intake of Vitamin C to help heal the wound area faster.