When is a Dental Extraction Necessary and What is Involved in the Procedure
At Oral Square Dental Care, we understand that there are situations where dental extraction becomes necessary to prevent further damage or infection to your teeth, mouth or jaw. Our top priority is your comfort and safety, and we will do everything we can to ensure that your tooth extraction experience is as stress-free as possible.
Our skilled dentists are experts in performing tooth extractions with precision and care. Remember, we are here to help, so don’t delay if you need an infected tooth extraction.
When Tooth Extraction is Necessary
There are various reasons why you might require a tooth extraction. You may suffer from overcrowding teeth, your tooth may be decayed or infected (which may spread to other healthy teeth), you may need wisdom teeth removed or you may have a broken tooth.
When a tooth has been damaged by decay or is cracked, we always attempt to repair it with a filling, dental crown, or other treatment first. However, if the damage is too severe, tooth extraction is necessary.
Tooth extraction involves removing the entire tooth from its socket in the jawbone. It’s a relatively simple procedure, in the right dental professional’s hands, who can do it efficiently, safely and painlessly.
Expert Dental Extraction Process
Our team of experienced dentists follow a meticulous approach to dental extractions.
After administering a local anaesthetic to ensure your comfort, our dentist will gently make an incision in the gums to expose the tooth and bone. Any obstructions will be carefully removed, and the tooth will be extracted. In some cases, the tooth may need to be broken into smaller pieces for safe removal.
Once the extraction is complete, the area will be cleaned, and dissolvable sutures may be applied if necessary.
Managing Tooth Extraction Pain
We understand that tooth extraction pain can be a concern for many patients. Rest assured that our team takes every measure to minimise discomfort during the procedure. Local anaesthesia is used to numb the area, ensuring a pain-free experience.
Following the extraction, you may experience some tenderness or mild discomfort. Over-the-counter painkillers, recommended by our dentists, can help manage any residual pain. Applying ice packs to the cheeks or jaw can also reduce swelling and provide relief.
PLEASE NOTE: Aspirin can induce bleeding following an extraction, so it’s important to avoid it. Paracetamol (if you are able to take it) is a great alternative.
Care After Tooth Extraction for a Smooth Recovery
For care after tooth extractions, following our aftercare guidelines are crucial for a smooth recovery. Here are some important steps to follow after tooth extraction:
- Take It Easy: Allow yourself to rest for at least 24 hours after the extraction to aid the healing process.
- Protect the Blood Clot: For the first 24 hours, avoid rinsing, spitting forcefully, or using a straw, as these actions may dislodge the crucial blood clot that forms in the extraction site.
- Saltwater Rinse: After 24 hours, gently rinse your mouth with a warm saltwater solution (half a teaspoon of salt in a cup of water.) This helps keep the area clean and promotes healing.
- Manage Swelling and Pain: Applying ice packs to the affected area periodically can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain.
- Oral Hygiene: Resume brushing and flossing your teeth as usual, but be careful to avoid the extraction site. Use a toothbrush with soft bristles and gently clean around the area.
- Medications: Take prescribed painkillers, antibiotics, and other medications as directed by our dental team to prevent infection and manage any discomfort.
- Diet Modifications: Avoid hot food or drinks until the anaesthetic wears off. Then, stick to soft foods, such as soups, jelly, and yoghurts, for the first few days after the extraction to avoid causing irritation or damage to the healing site.
- Avoid Smoking and Tobacco Products: Refrain from smoking or using tobacco products for a few days as they can hinder the healing process.
- Sleeping: Try to keep your head higher for the first night using an extra pillow if possible. It is also a good idea to use an old pillowcase, or put a towel on the pillow, in case you bleed a little.
- Follow-Up Appointments: Attend any recommended follow-up appointments, allowing our dental professionals to monitor your healing progress and address any concerns you may have. Be sure to contact us if you experience symptoms such as fever, excessive bleeding, severe pain, difficulty breathing, excessive swelling, or difficulty swallowing. This could be an indication of a serious complication.
Trusted Tooth Extraction Dentists
At Oral Square Dental Care, our expert dentists provide specialised dental extraction services while prioritising patient comfort and safety. With our meticulous approach to extractions and comprehensive aftercare guidelines, we ensure a smooth recovery process.
By following our post-extraction care instructions, you can manage after tooth extraction pain, reduce the risk of complications, and heal efficiently.
Schedule an appointment today for expert dental extraction services.
FAQs
Possibly. If you are experiencing overcrowding of teeth, extracting a tooth can create space for proper alignment and enhance your overall oral health. A decayed or infected tooth not only causes pain and discomfort but may also spread infection to neighbouring healthy teeth.
If you have a broken tooth that cannot be saved using traditional dental treatments, then yes, you may require a tooth extraction. This will be discussed in your consultation.
You may want to arrange for someone to drive you home afterwards, as you will most likely receive local anaesthesia.