Tooth Extractions Become Necessary in Certain Cases Even during Adulthood

Adults that are routinely recommended to have their wisdom teeth extracted may encounter other reasons that will also require tooth extractions.

You could be suffering from excessive tooth decay, crowding, or tooth infection that may all necessitate an extraction. If you plan to have braces you may need a couple of teeth extracted to make space for your other teeth to shift into proper position. Tooth extractions are routinely performed by General dentistry of Delta which specializes in dentistry for tooth extraction in Delta.

The procedure for extracting teeth is an outpatient procedure that will be performed under local, general, or intravenous anesthesia. If your teeth are visible they will undergo a simple extraction but on the other hand, if they are impacted or below the surface of the gum line you will need a surgical extraction. You could be overcome by dental anxiety at the thought of having a tooth extracted but are advised not to concern yourself because tooth extractions in Delta are performed by experienced dentists after evaluating your mouth thoroughly.

How Can You Prepare for the Extraction?

Before the procedure is scheduled Precision Dentistry of Delta will obtain x-rays of your tooth and inquire about any medications you are having including vitamins, over-the-counter drugs, or supplements. You must also provide the dentist with information about whether you are suffering from any of the following conditions:

• Diabetes.
• An impaired immune system.
• Hypertension.
• Liver disease.
• Renal disease or any other condition.

The dentist at this facility will want to ensure the conditions are stable or are treated before the extraction procedure. Antibiotics may be prescribed to you in the days leading to the procedure if the dentist expects the procedure to be long, you have a specific medical condition or an infection with a weakened immune system.

The Tooth Extraction Procedure

As mentioned earlier you will undergo either a simple or a surgical extraction depending on whether your tooth is visible or impacted.

In a simple extraction, you will be administered a local anesthetic to numb the area around the tooth to make the procedure painless. Dentists use instruments known as elevators to loosen the tooth before extracting it with forceps.

If you are undergoing a surgical extraction you may be administered both local and intravenous anesthesia to make you calm and relaxed. General anesthesia may also be administered depending on your medical conditions but this variety will make you unconscious during the procedure.

The dentist will make an incision in your gums to remove some bone from around the tooth or even cut the tooth increases before it is extracted.

The Risks of Having Tooth Extracted

Few risks are involved in having a tooth extracted especially if it is recommended for your dentist who would have considered any complications that may occur. Perhaps the most common complication that can occur is a dry socket which happens when a blood clot does not form as it should in the hole of the extraction. In such cases, dentists will protect the area with a sedative dressing over it for a few days during which time a new clot will form. Some other risks that may be associated are the following:

• Bleeding that continues for over 12 hours.
• Chest pain or shortness in breath.
• Severe fever and chills indicating an infection.
• Redness and swelling in the surgical site.

If you experience any of these symptoms it is suggested that you contact your dentist immediately.

The Time for Recovery after Tooth Extraction

A few days will be required to recover completely after tooth extraction. You can ensure the extraction proceeds smoothly by adopting the following steps:

• Bite down on the gauze pad placed by the dentist over the affected area after the extraction to prevent bleeding and help in the formation of the clot. Leave it in place for approximately 3 to 4 hours or until the pad is saturated with blood.
• Take any medications prescribed by the dentist judiciously including over-the-counter painkillers.
• Use an ice pack to reduce swelling on your cheeks after the procedure.
• Do not smoke or use a straw for drinking beverages for at least 24 hours.
• Brush and floss your teeth as you do regularly but avoid the site of the extraction.

If you experience discomfort after several days or notice any signs of infection contact your dentist as soon as possible.