When Is Tooth Extraction Done?
While tooth extraction may seem like a routine dental treatment, it’s not. We strive to preserve your teeth and therefore perform an extraction when it is needed. Some of the reasons why we perform tooth extraction include:
1. Decay
Dental decay is a common problem that affects both children and adults. The problem is that tooth decay is a silent problem that develops slowly and rarely shows any symptoms.
Tooth removal is not the first treatment of choice. Our dentist may recommend other treatments if you have mild to moderate decay. Dental fillings are the first treatment of choice for mild decay. If you have moderate decay that has extended to the pulp, the dentist will perform a root canal procedure.
Tooth extraction is done when you have an irreparable decay.
When you have decay, you’ll notice sharp and persistent tooth pain, lingering sensitivity, and black or brown spots on the teeth.
2. Periodontal Disease
Gum disease causes inflammation of the gums. If left untreated, the infection can spread to the rest of the teeth and cause them to weaken. Also, as it advances, the supporting bone may get damaged, this will further cause the dental structure to weaken.
Tooth extraction can be done on the severely damaged tooth due to periodontal disease. It is also done to stop the spread of infection and the deterioration of the bone.
3. Impacted Teeth
When the jaw lacks sufficient space to house all the teeth, some of them may come out impacted. Wisdom teeth are the most affected teeth. These are the last molars to come out, and they normally do so after the jaw has attained maturity (around 17 and 25 years). This increases the chances of the teeth getting impacted or trapped beneath the gums. Some can get partially impacted, but still will require an extraction.
The dentist will perform a surgical extraction to remove the teeth. This prevents them from causing further damage to the jaw and teeth.
4. Overcrowded Teeth
These also result from having insufficient space in the mouth or narrow jaws. Overcrowded teeth are a dental problem because they affect your dental health. This is because they make it hard for you to clean the back of the teeth, which offers the perfect environment for the bacteria to multiply.
The dentist may recommend tooth extraction to remove the excess teeth to make room for the orthodontic treatment (braces).
5. Knocked out or Fractured Teeth
Our teeth can get knocked out after a direct blow to the teeth or a fall. Knocked-out teeth can get fixed if you get treatment within the first hour of the accident. However, if you have severe damage, the dentist may recommend removing the loose teeth to protect the other teeth and preserve your soft tissues and nerves.
The teeth can also get fractured. If you have a mild fracture, you can have a dental bonding. However, if your fracture extends to the nerves, they may need to be extracted to maintain your dental integrity.
How is Tooth Extraction Done?
Tooth removal is done based on the type of extraction. There is a simple and surgical extraction.
A simple extraction is done on visible teeth, and it normally takes a few minutes, up to an hour. Surgical extraction, on the other hand, is done on teeth impacted under the gum. It involves opening the gums and removing the teeth.
The dentist will use local anesthesia, but for surgical extraction, the dentist can use dental sedation. Your gums are stitched to facilitate healing.
How Long Does it Take to Recover?
The recovery period will depend on the type of extraction done. Simple extraction lasts about 7 to 10 days. However, you can expect to stay for a few weeks if surgical extraction is done.
During the recovery period, try to eat smooth and soft foods to allow the gums to heal. Avoid spicy and hot foods because they worsen the situation. If there is swelling, use ice packs to stop it.
Schedule an Appointment
Visit Webber Dental for more information on tooth extraction, how it’s done and what to expect.