Tooth Extraction

Reasons for Tooth Extraction

• Severe Decay: Teeth that are too decayed to be saved by a crown or filling.
• Periodontal Disease: Advanced gum disease that has loosened the tooth.
• Impaction: Common with wisdom teeth that do not have room to emerge naturally.
• Orthodontic Treatment: Removing teeth to alleviate crowding and facilitate alignment.
• Risk of Infection: For patients undergoing chemotherapy or organ transplants who may be at increased risk of infection.

The Procedure for Tooth Extraction

1. Pre-Procedure Examination: Includes X-rays and a review of the patient’s medical history to plan the best approach for extraction.
2. Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area. Sedation or general anesthesia may be used for more complex cases.
3. Extraction: The tooth is loosened with a dental instrument called an elevator, then removed with dental forceps.
4. Closure: The site may be sutured to aid in healing, and gauze is placed to help control bleeding.

Aftercare and Recovery

• Bleeding Control: Bite down on the gauze pad periodically and change it as directed to control bleeding.
• Pain Management: Use prescribed pain relievers or over-the-counter options like ibuprofen to manage discomfort.
• Avoid Certain Activities: For the first 24 hours, avoid strenuous activity, smoking, and sucking actions (like using a straw) that could dislodge the blood clot.
• Soft Foods: Eat soft and cool foods while avoiding the extraction site when chewing.
• Oral Hygiene: Keep the mouth clean but avoid brushing directly at the extraction site for the first 24 hours. After that, gently rinse with warm salt water.

Potential Complications

• • • Dry Socket: Occurs if the blood clot at the extraction site is dislodged, exposing the underlying bone and nerves. This condition is painful and requires immediate dental care.
    • Infection: Signs include persistent swelling, pain, and a bad taste; antibiotics may be prescribed to manage an infection.