For every individual, tooth extraction at first seems stressful and unpleasant. The cause for this is a mix of factors that includes poor encounters with doctors, dental phobia, etc. Furthermore, the use of instruments such as dental elevators frightens the majority of patients.
Of course, if you go to the dentist for a dental exam and they prescribe tooth extractions, there could be a variety of reasons for this.
- The tooth is broken and can’t be fixed.
- Wisdom teeth erupting incorrectly
- Tooth decay and more
Yes, any dental operation can be uncomfortable. But dental uprooting does not have a painful experience if you are familiar with the procedure.
So, let us explore the basics and essential things about tooth extraction and the recovery process. It will likely reduce the number of myths and misconceptions about such oral care processes.
Overview of Tooth Extraction
Tooth extraction is a quick and painless dental operation that takes about 40 minutes. The best part is that dentists numb or anesthetize the patient, making the procedure less uncomfortable and painful. However, it is entirely upon the dentists what sort of procedure they choose.
Furthermore, the time it takes to complete the procedure is determined by the dentist’s experience. To begin, the hygienist will review your medical history and identify the risks associated with tooth extraction.
Simple tooth removal procedures may not meet the oral care needs sometimes. Your dentist may not proceed with the procedure if the tooth has fragile roots or several connected roots that could shatter. In such a case, dentists prefer performing tooth surgery which can be time-consuming. Also, it may result in additional expenditures.
Also, tooth decay is easy to manage with crows or filling or any other treatments. But sometimes, the damage is beyond repair. Hence, dentists in such cases suggest an advanced procedure for a better fixture.
Why is Tooth Extraction Recommended?
When a tooth is rotten or damaged beyond repair, the best option is to remove it. But why only remove it now, you could wonder? It is because maintaining a decaying tooth in the mouth might lead to serious oral disorders.
The other reasons why your dentist may suggest your dental uprooting can be as follows:
- In some circumstances, the tooth is irreversibly ruined.
- The decay has spread to the centre of the tooth, causing the infection.
- It’s also possible that you’re suffering from significant tooth discomfort due to overcrowding of the mouth.
- Periodontal disease, which affects the bones that support teeth, could possibly be the reason for tooth extraction.
Apart from that, orthodontic therapy can play a big role. With your agreement, the dentist may pull teeth if the therapy appears to be complex. For instance, placing braces may necessitate tooth extraction to maintain teeth alignment. This is why dental braces are costly, and the oral hygienist recommends tooth extraction as a viable procedure.
Tips to Prepare for Tooth Extraction
- Of course, before you agree to any dental procedure, the dentist will go over your entire medical and dental history with you. It will provide them with a thorough picture of the therapies you’ve had in the past, as well as other important information like health complications, allergies, medications, blood group, and more.
- In case you develop cough, nausea, or cold-like problems a week before surgery, inform your dentist. They may reschedule your anesthesia or postpone the surgery.
- Follow the advised premedications.
- Avoid smoking on the day of dental extraction to prevent any painful sore.
- Before continuing with the tooth extraction process, make sure you eat something. It will assist in lowering anxiety levels during therapy. You must also refrain from eating for nearly an hour following tooth extraction.
- Plan a drive to the home as you won’t be able to reach home alone because of anesthesia.
- It is also critical to inform the dentist if you are pregnant. Dentists generally advise against having teeth extracted at the start or end of a pregnancy. This is because x-rays might be dangerous. Extraction of teeth during the second trimester following certain safety guidelines can be arranged. As a result, the patient must consider the need to notify their doctor about their pregnancy.
Things to do After Dental Extraction
- After the procedure, don’t drink any water or other beverages for at least 2 hours.
- Apply an ice pack to the outside of the mouth to minimize inflammation and avoid post-extract puffiness.
- Consume coconut water or ice cream when the gauge is lifted. The region around the extraction point will relax as a result of this.
- For at least 2-3 days, avoid using stripping juice. This is because excessive suckling pressure can disrupt the extraction socket’s healing process and result in intense bleeding.
- Sneezing and coughing are essential to avoid because they can cause bleeding. During such a case, carry a cotton cloth or kerchief with you to minimize risks to the dental procedure.
- For a few days, avoid eating hot, spicy, or hard food. Stay away from eating foods such as papad, almonds, and walnuts to keep the extraction site safe.
- Take medications as prescribed by the dentist.
- While lying down, keep your head raised with pillows to limit any bleeding.
- Do not spit forcibly as it could harm the extraction site.
- Water gargling is essential after every meal to keep the extraction area clean.
- Book an appointment with the dentist in case bleeding is not reducing or pain is still there after a few days.
Aside from that, the recovery period following extraction is approximately 1-2 weeks. You may have unease, minor pain, overall discomfort, and other symptoms during this period. You won’t be able to consume as much as you want. Slight bleeding is possible, but it may be controlled using swabs. Overall, your dentist will give you special recommendations to help you relax and stay calm during your healing.
What Does Your Dentist Will Do on the Day of the Procedure?
To put it simply,
- The dentist will monitor anaesthesia to numb the area around the tooth to be pulled. People with dental phobia may be sedated or given laughing gas by their dentist. It will calm them down and relax their tensions in the mouth.
- They may remove bone and gum tissues protecting the tooth if it is affected and difficult to access.
After that, the tooth will be pushed back and forth to break away the fibres that connect the enamel and jawbones. - The dentist will use a variety of equipment such as forceps with springs to extract teeth from the socket.
The last thing the dentist would perform after the extraction is disinfecting the gauge to cover the extraction spot. - Brush carefully so that no harm comes to the area accidentally where the tooth extraction has taken place.
Summing Up
Nothing can hold you from getting the best dental experience possible when it comes to tooth extraction.
It’s all straightforward. You do not need to be afraid of dental extractions or believe that they are uncomfortable. All you have to do is choose a dentist with the necessary knowledge and skills. Ensure they use quality dental products and possess relevant certification. In addition, to avoid future dental difficulties, make sure you take comprehensive care after the extraction.
Hope this information helps you be prepared for your next tooth extraction procedure.
