A damaged or decayed tooth is removed via a tooth extraction procedure. It is much needed to extract the tooth to relieve severe pain and other problems. You don’t have to worry as tooth extraction is a very common dental procedure used to improve your oral health. It can eliminate bacteria, infection, and other problems caused by a damaged or decayed tooth. The procedure involves the complete removal of your tooth from its socket.
Why Do I Need a Tooth Extraction?
Your dentist will always prefer to save your natural teeth and recommend an alternative procedure. Tooth extraction is recommended only when there is no possibility of saving your natural teeth via procedures like a dental filling, root canal treatment, dental crown, etc. It happens when your tooth is decayed or damaged to the extent that no repair is possible. Then it is necessary to remove your tooth to avoid other dental problems. Here are a few severe conditions that make tooth extraction inevitable:
- Your teeth are crowded
- Your tooth is fractured.
- There are severe cavities
- You have severe gum disease
- You have dental injuries or tooth luxation
How Tooth Extraction Procedure Takes Place?
Firstly, your dentist will take an X-ray of your teeth to assess the extent of damage and check bone levels. You need to inform your dentist about any medications and supplements you are taking.
When the dentist has determined all the risks he will discuss the treatment plan and sedition options with you. Sedation is a source of relaxation for those who face dental anxiety. Usually, dentists use sedation options during tooth removal and other dental procedures.
What If I Bleed After the Tooth Extraction?
After the completion of tooth extraction, your dentist will place a gauze piece near the extraction area and ask you to close your mouth putting steady pressure. This will slow down your bleeding and form the blood clot as it is a normal recovery aspect. You can remove the gauze from your mouth as soon as the bleeding slows down. Sometimes light bleeding may continue for 24 hours.
What are Some Complications Associated with Tooth Extraction?
There are a few risks associated with tooth extraction like any other surgery. For instance, there is a chance of nerve injury, dry socket, post-surgical infection, delayed healing, and perforation of the maxillary sinus. However, there are a few normal side effects of tooth removal like discomfort, swelling, and bleeding. You can avoid all of these side effects by following the instructions of your dentist properly.
How Long does it Take to Recover from the Tooth Extraction?
The complexity of your case determines the speed of recovery. But, normally most people recover from a tooth extraction in a few days. You can start your routine activities within 2 to 3 days. Although, your jaw bone might heal completely in several weeks. So, you need to plan and prepare before getting a dental implant to replace your missing tooth. Without completely healing from your surgery it is not possible to place the implants.
What can I Start Eating After the Removal of a Tooth?
For the first few days, you need to avoid crunchy and hard foods. But it is okay to consume applesauce, yogurt, eggs, pasta, and rice. To avoid dry sockets you should avoid using straws as it can result in dislodging the blood clot.
When can I go Back to School or Work?
It is okay to return to your school or work within 24 to 48hrs. But it is better to avoid labor work or lifting for a few days.
