DENTAL EXTRACTIONS
EXTRACTION IS TYPICALLY CONSIDERED A LAST RESORT, AND DENTISTS WILL TRY TO SAVE A TOOTH WHENEVER POSSIBLE.
Tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth from the socket. There are several reasons why your tooth may need to be extracted, including severe tooth decay, gum disease, impacted teeth, crowding, infection, or trauma. Severe tooth decay can damage the tooth’s structure beyond repair, making it unable to be saved with a filling or crown. Advanced gum disease is another cause for teeth to become loose and require extraction. Teeth that are unable to emerge through the gums, such as wisdom teeth, may need to be extracted to prevent infection, damage to other teeth, or discomfort. In some cases, teeth may become infected, and the infection cannot be treated with antibiotics or root canal therapy, requiring extraction. Tooth roots may also be damaged or broken beyond repair due to a sports injury, accident, or other types of trauma, requiring extraction. While extraction is typically considered a last resort, it may be necessary to preserve oral health and prevent further damage or infection. If you have a tooth that is causing pain or discomfort, please give us a call.
Is tooth extraction painful?
A tooth extraction is typically performed under local anesthesia, which numbs the area around the tooth being removed. Patients will feel some pressure or discomfort during the procedure, but they should not feel pain. After the extraction, patients may experience some pain or swelling, but this can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers and ice packs.
How long is the recovery from a tooth extraction?
The recovery time after a tooth extraction can vary depending on the individual and the complexity of the extraction. Most people can expect to feel some discomfort and swelling for a few days after the procedure. It’s important to follow the post operative instructions provided by your dentist, such as avoiding smoking, spitting, or using a straw for the first 24 hours after the procedure and sticking to a soft-food diet for the first few days.
What can I eat after a tooth extraction?
For the first few days, it’s best to stick to soft, easy-to-chew foods such as soups, smoothies, and mashed potatoes. Avoid hard, crunchy, or chewy foods that can irritate the extraction site. Once the site has healed, you can gradually reintroduce harder foods into your diet.
