Tooth Extraction: Procedure and Guidelines

Our permanent teeth should be healthy during most of our lives, hence their name. However, this ideal situation rarely happens, as teeth tend to get damaged because of many reasons.

Let’s see the common causes of why you might need tooth extractions near you:

1. Impacted Teeth

When people don’t have enough room in their mouths, some teeth may get stuck under the gum line. This situation is very typical in wisdom teeth, which are the last molars to erupt. 

An impacted tooth may cause severe pain, and our periodontist in Los Angeles will plan a dental extraction.

2. Dental Fractures

Excessive forces or dental trauma may lead to a cracked tooth. If the fracture is beneath the gum line, you may need an extraction.

3. Tooth Decay

Severe decay can destroy a large amount of dental structure. When the destruction is irreparable, you should look for tooth extractions in Los Angeles. 

4. Gum Disease

Many patients have gum disease. In the early stages, a professional dental cleaning might be sufficient to remove all the plaque and tartar; however, if it’s left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, which destroys the structures that support the teeth. In consequence, some teeth shift so much that your dental professional might advise you to pull them out.

5. Orthodontic Purposes

Some orthodontists may plan dental extractions to simplify the alignment treatment, especially when the patient has spacing issues.

If you can relate to any of the situations above and you need to undergo dental surgery, here’s what to expect from the procedure.

Before Teeth Extractions

Your surgeon will evaluate the condition of the dental piece to ensure that the only solution is to extract it. He or she will consider other options first because saving the tooth is the most important thing. 

They will take dental x-rays to have a vision of your tooth’s roots, and maybe ask you to take blood tests to ensure everything is good to go.

During this appointment, you may discuss sedation dentistry if you are too anxious about the extractions. You may also ask about any other concerns, including the cost of the extraction. 

During Teeth Extractions

So the surgery appointment has arrived. The first thing your doctor will do is manage the pain. He or she will use a sedative (if discussed in the previous appointment), and a local anesthetic to numb the area. Afterward, he or she will use forceps to pull the tooth out. If you are wide awake, you might feel some pressure, but no pain.

If the tooth is beneath the gum line, it might be necessary to cut some gum and jawbone to have better access.

 After Teeth Extractions

You must follow the following recommendations for a successful recovery:

• Your surgeon will place a gauze pad in the surgical area, and you will have to bite down so the clot can form. Don’t change the gauze pad unless it’s soaked. 
• Don’t rinse for the first 24 hours. On the second day, start rinsing with warm and salt water for at least twice a day.
• Rest at home for at least 24 hours. You will be able to resume your daily activities the day after.
• Don’t drink through a straw; it may dislodge the clot.
• If you are a smoker, avoid smoking for at least two days after the procedure.
• To reduce the swelling, apply ice packs for ten minutes on and ten minutes off.
• Keep a soft diet for at least 48 hours. 
• Stick to cold foods during the first day.
• Keep brushing your teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush; however, don’t brush the surgical area during the first days. 
• To manage pain, take your prescribed pain medication. Over-the-counter painkillers are usually enough.