Teeth extraction is the process of removal of a tooth from the tooth socket. At Dawson Modern Dentistry, we will do all possible measures to avoid the extraction. However, in certain cases, extractions would be unavoidable to preserve the health of the overall mouth. Patients who have severe decay, gum disease, or irreparable damage may need an extraction. If a tooth is beyond repair or is severely infected, we will remove the tooth to protect your overall oral health. Some of the other most common reasons to remove a tooth include:
Prior to your tooth extraction, your dentist or oral surgeon will administer local anesthesia to numb the area around the tooth. This often consists of applying a numbing gel or administering an injection to numb the nerves around your tooth.
Once your anesthetic has taken effect, your dentist will carefully widen your socket by rocking your tooth back and forth with dental tools. They will then make a small incision in your gum line in order to access your dental roots. Then, the dentist cut the tooth into fragments.
The dentist will use an instrument called an elevator to loosen the tooth from the socket. Once the tooth is loosened, the dentist will proceed with its extraction.
The loosened tooth is extracted with forceps. Forceps grasp the tooth and remove it from the socket.
After the tooth is removed, the dentist will suture the socket closed. The suture is composed of 2-3 stitches that dissolve over time. Over time, the gum tissue will heal in the socket.
The healing time after tooth extractions varies from person to person. Chewing, biting on the inside of your cheeks, and drinking liquids should be restricted during this healing time.
After your extraction, make sure you rest with your head elevated. Take all medications as prescribed. To control the swelling, prop yourself up with pillows and place an ice pack on your face.
Simple extractions are the process of removing teeth that are visible above the gums. These teeth are easily accessible, usually meaning that they can be removed by a dentist without having to cut the surrounding gums. During a simple extraction, the dentist loosens the tooth using an elevator and grasps it with dental forceps to remove it from the socket.
Surgical extractions involve making an incision and cutting into the gum tissue to access the tooth. Your dentist will use a local anesthetic to numb the area around the tooth. Then, they will create a small incision into the gum line in order to extract the tooth. Then they will loosen the tooth using an elevator. If needed, your dentist may also break the tooth into multiple pieces to make it easier to extract. The dentist will then remove the tooth, and the process will be over. Surgical extractions are necessary for severely damaged teeth, impacted teeth, or teeth that are broken below the gum line.
A simple extraction can be done in as little as 15 minutes. However, if the tooth is impacted, it may take longer.
Typically, no. Once the tooth is out, stitches are not necessary. However, if your gums have a tendency to bleed, your dentist may stitch the area.
Your tooth may ache for the first few days. However, if you take pain medicine as instructed, you should be able to manage the discomfort.
Your jaw may be sore for the first few days, especially if you had a tooth removed that is close to your sinus cavity. However, your dentist may prescribe a pain reliever to help with this.
Do you have a question? Or do you wish to schedule an appointment with us? Call Dawson Modern Dentistry at (704) 565-9512 or visit Dentist in Matthews, NC at 3555-2 Matthews-Mint Hill Rd, Matthews, NC 28105.
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