
What is a Tooth Extraction?
A tooth extraction, or removal, is the process of removing a tooth from a patient’s mouth. This can be done for a variety of reasons, such as when a tooth is damaged or decayed beyond repair, when there is not enough room in the mouth for all of the teeth, or when a tooth needs to be removed prior to orthodontic treatment.
Tooth extractions are usually performed by an oral surgeon, although some dentists may also be able to perform them. The procedure is generally safe and relatively simple, although it can be slightly more complex if the tooth is impacted or if there are complications such as infection or excessive bleeding.
The Different Types of Tooth Extractions
Different types of tooth extractions are performed depending on the location and type of tooth being removed. Impacted teeth, for example, require a surgical extraction in which the gum tissue is cut, and the tooth is removed in pieces. A simple extraction is also known as a closed extraction.
With this type of extraction, we numb the area around the tooth and use an elevator to loosen the tooth before removing it with forceps. This type of extraction is used when the tooth in question is still visible above the gums and readily accessible. A surgical extraction happens when the tooth is not visible above the gum line or if it has broken off at the gum line.
With this type of extraction, anesthesia is used to numb the area around the tooth. The gum tissue is then cut, and the flap is reflected to allow access to the tooth's bone and roots. The bone may need to be removed using a drill before forceps can be used to remove any remaining root fragments.
Why Do Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed?
There are a few reasons why wisdom teeth may need to be removed. If they are impacted, they may crowd or damage other teeth. They can also be difficult to clean, leading to decay and gum disease. In some cases, wisdom teeth come in without any problems. However, if they aren’t aligned properly, they might rub against your cheek or tongue, which can be painful.
How is a Wisdom Tooth Extracted?
A wisdom tooth extraction is a procedure in which a tooth is removed from the mouth. Wisdom teeth are the third molars and the last teeth to erupt in the mouth. They usually come in from the age of 17 to 25.
In most cases, we all have four wisdom teeth, however, some people may only have two, while others have had more than four. Wisdom teeth can be difficult to clean due to their location at the back of the mouth, and they are also more likely to become impacted or stuck beneath the gum line. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, infection, and damage to adjacent teeth.
An oral surgeon typically performs wisdom tooth extractions while you are under local anesthesia. Our surgeon will make an incision in your gums to expose your wisdom tooth during the procedure. Next, they will remove any bone blocking access to the tooth. The wisdom tooth will then be extracted by breaking it into pieces and removing it from your mouth in sections. After removing your wisdom tooth, you will need to take care of your wound by rinsing with salt water and keeping it clean with gauze pads. You may also experience swelling and discomfort after surgery, but this can be treated with ice packs and over-the-counter pain medication.
Aftercare for a Tooth Extraction
Once your tooth has been extracted, it’s important to take care of the wound to promote healing and avoid infection. Here are some aftercare tips.
• | Gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water immediately after the extraction. Do this several times a day for the first few days. |
• | Avoid vigorous swishing, which can cause bleeding. |
• | Apply a cold compress to your cheek for 15 minutes at a time to reduce swelling. |
• | To keep the extraction site clean, brush your teeth gently around the area and floss carefully. |
• | Eat soft foods and avoid hot drinks for a few days. |
• | Don’t smoke or use straws for at least 24 hours, as these can cause bleeding. |
Not All Damaged Teeth Need To Be Removed
In many cases, we can save a damaged tooth by performing a root canal or other treatment, in order to help save and protect a tooth rather than extracting it.
The Difference Between a Dental Crown and a Dental Filling
When most people think of dental work, they think of either a filling or a crown. But what’s the difference between the two? A dental filling is used to repair a tooth that has been damaged by decay. We will remove the decayed material from the tooth and then fill the void with a filling material. Several types of filling materials are available, including amalgam (silver), composite (tooth-colored), and gold.
A dental crown is used to cover a tooth that has been damaged by decay or injury. First, we will remove the damaged portion of the tooth and then cap it with a crown. Crowns can be made from several different materials, including porcelain, ceramic, or metal.
How Dental Implants Can Help After a Tooth Extraction
If you're facing a tooth extraction, you may wonder what your options are for replacing the tooth. Dental implants are a popular and effective option for many people. Here's how they can help after a tooth extraction.
• | Dental implants can prevent bone loss. When a tooth is extracted, the bone around it starts to resorb (or shrink). This can cause problems like an increased risk of tooth loss and facial collapse. Dental implants help to prevent this by stimulating the bone and keeping it healthy. |
• | Dental implants can improve your appearance. Missing teeth can make you look older than you are, and they can also make it difficult to eat and speak properly. Dental implants can give you back your smile and improve your appearance. |
• | Dental implants can help preserve your oral health. Dental implants don't just improve the way you look, they also help preserve your oral health in the long run. That's because they keep your teeth from shifting out of place, which can lead to gum disease and other problems. |
If you want to learn more about tooth extractions or would like to schedule an appointment with Treasure Valley Oral & Facial Surgery, contact (208) 343-0909 today!