Tooth extraction is a procedure that involves removing the tooth from the bone. Teeth extraction is necessary for several reasons. Teeth decay or infection, when the teeth cannot be fixed with filling, crown, or root canal, extraction is the best option to prevent the infection. Mina Family Dentistry is here to help, the best oral surgery Thornhill performer.
What is teeth extraction?
Teeth extraction involves removing the tooth from the alveolar bone. You may need teeth extraction for several reasons. When your tooth is damaged beyond repair. Or when you need to prevent the infection from spreading to other parts of your mouth. Periodontal disease or overcrowding may be another reason for teeth extraction.
Types of tooth extraction
Tooth extraction can be categorized into two types simple and surgical. Simple teeth extraction is performed when the tooth is visible and it concludes with removing the tooth with forceps. A surgical extraction is required for teeth that are broken or not fully visible like wisdom teeth. This procedure requires incisions.
Common reasons for tooth extraction
Maintaining oral health can be an arduous task, and when you’re unable to do so you may need to remove your tooth or teeth. When a cavity is untreated and the infection reaches the central part of the tooth. It can be extremely painful in that case if the infection has spread and cannot be managed with other treatments, extraction is the only option.
Severe teeth decay
When a tooth is severely affected by decay meaning the structure of teeth has fallen apart, plaque buildup may occur which erodes the enamel, the outer layer of the teeth, this produces acid and allows bacteria to further penetrate the teeth, reaching the blood vessels. At this stage teeth is beyond repair and must be extracted.
Gum disease
Gum inflammation caused by plaque buildup on teeth often called gingivitis can change into periodontitis, an extremely severe condition where tissues and bone that support and hold the teeth together fall apart. In this condition, teeth extraction becomes a necessity.
Overcrowded mouth
Overcrowding occurs when there is not enough space in the jaw for all teeth. This lack of space causes teeth to get pushed out of their original positions. Causing various issues. Teeth extraction can fix the functional issues of teeth.
Signs you need a teeth extraction
Of the most common signs among patients who need tooth extraction is that they experience severe pain that doesn’t go away using pain medication or painkillers. This usually indicates there is a deep decay or infection that needs to be dealt with.
Persistent pain
Persistent pain may arise from various issues such as deep decay infection or nerve damage. When a cavity reaches the inner layers of the teeth it can cause unbearable pain. This often indicates that the tooth cannot be saved using fillings, making extraction the best possible option available.
Loose teeth
Unlike children having loose teeth as adults can be quite challenging, this often highlights the issue of periodontal disease which affects the gums, causing them to deteriorate. When teeth become loose and cannot be kept in place with other treatment options. Extraction becomes the most viable option.
The teeth extraction process
The process begins with X-ray scans, which help the dentist to check the surrounding bone structure. Various sedation options are available to ensure full patient comfort.
The extraction procedure
Depending on the type of extraction, simple or surgical, specialized tools are used to loosen the tooth from the socket it’s attached to or for teeth that are broken and require surgical procedure an incision is made in the gum to access the teeth and then the teeth is carefully removed.
Post-extraction care
Patients are advised to bite down on a gauze to stop the bleeding, this gauze is kept in place for 30 minutes or until the bleeding is stopped. Applying an ice pack to the face is also advised as it keeps you comfortable and away from discomfort.
After 24 hours rinsing your mouth with salt water can clean the extraction area. Be extra careful when brushing and flossing the extraction area. Antibiotics may be prescribed to help your body fight off any imminent infection.
As your mouth heals you can add back the foods you were previously eating. However, it’s important to know you must avoid crunchy or hard consumables. Eat or drink food like soup yogurt pudding or soup. Chewy foods as mentioned above can increase the chance of bleeding and damaging the tissue in the process.
While it may be tempting to use a mouthwash try not to do so in the first 24 hours. Instead do as mentioned above, use gentle warm water. This keeps the area clean.
If you experience bleeding pain or signs of infection such as fever or a bad taste in your mouth. Or if you feel like the swelling is worsening. Contact your dentist immediately to prevent further issues or complications.
FAQ
What is teeth extraction?
Tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth from its socket in the jawbone. It’s often necessary due to severe tooth decay, gum disease, overcrowding, or when a tooth is damaged beyond repair.
What are the types of teeth extraction?
There are two main types:
Simple extraction Used for teeth that are visible above the gumline.
Surgical extraction is Required for teeth that are broken, impacted (like wisdom teeth), or not fully erupted.
What are common reasons for tooth extraction?
When a cavity becomes too large and the tooth’s structure is compromised, extraction may be necessary.
Advanced gum disease can lead to bone loss and tooth loosening, making extraction unavoidable.
When there’s insufficient space for teeth, extraction can help align the remaining teeth.
What are signs that I might need a tooth extraction?
Severe toothache that doesn’t respond to pain relievers often indicates an underlying issue requiring extraction.
Teeth becoming loose due to gum disease may necessitate extraction.
What is the tooth extraction process?
The process involves
X-rays: To assess the tooth’s position and surrounding bone structure.
Anesthesia: Local anesthetic or sedation to ensure comfort.
Extraction: The tooth is removed using appropriate tools, depending on the type of extraction.
Post-extraction care: Includes biting on a gauze pad to control bleeding, applying ice packs, and following specific oral hygiene instructions.