The procedure of tooth extraction represents a standard dental intervention used to treat different oral health problems. The following information about tooth extractions in Vancouver will help you understand the procedure better so you can feel more at ease during your dental procedure. The following article explains tooth extraction procedures together with post-extraction care instructions to promote proper healing.
Reasons for Tooth Extractions
The following reasons lead dentists to perform tooth extractions:
- Severe Tooth Decay or Damage: The removal of a tooth becomes necessary when decay or damage reaches a point where repair is impossible to prevent additional oral health complications.
- Infection or Abscess: A tooth requires extraction when root canal therapy fails to treat an infection. The tooth must be extracted to stop the spread of infection.
- Impacted Wisdom Teeth: The need to remove impacted wisdom teeth arises because these teeth get stuck under the gum tissue or develop abnormally, which leads to pain and infection and teeth misalignment.
- Overcrowding: The available space in the mouth determines whether extraction will happen to create space for proper tooth alignment during orthodontic treatment.
- Periodontal Disease: Severe gum disease causes teeth to become loose, and extraction becomes necessary when the tooth cannot be preserved.
Types of Tooth Extractions
The two most popular methods of tooth extraction are as follows:
- Simple Extraction: This is performed on the visible teeth and with local anesthesia. After that, the oral surgeon will use a specific elevator to get the tooth out and extract it with forceps afterward.
- Surgical Extraction: This is done when there is a less-than-easily-visible tooth, e.g., an impacted tooth. There is a small incision that must be cut inside the gum for extracting the tooth, and which might be stitched later on.
If you need a reliable dental clinic for tooth extractions near you, it’s crucial to select a professional team that ensures comfort and adequate care.
Tooth Extraction Procedure
Information about the process supports a person in making realistic assumptions about the outcome:
- Examination and X-rays: The dentist starts with a visual examination and then takes X-rays to see the tooth and know the root shape and tooth structure.
- Anesthesia: The dentist first administers local anesthesia to block dental pain sensitivity before starting the actual procedure. Sedative medication or general anaesthetics may be required for apprehensive patients or complicated cases.
- Tooth Extraction: The dentist cracks and removes the tooth using effective instruments. Surgical extractions, which require access to the tooth, may involve a small cut in the gum.
- Stitches (optional): Depending on where the tooth extraction is being performed, stitches may be needed to close the gum. Most commonly, dissolvable stitches are used, and no stitches need to be removed.
- Gauze Placement: A sterile gauze pad is placed over the extraction site to control bleeding and clotting.
- Post-treatment Instructions: Post-operative instructions, such as oral care and care of the extraction site, as well as dietary limitations.
Aftercare Tips for Optimal Healing
The healing process requires proper aftercare to achieve smooth results:
- Follow the instructions for your prescribed painkillers. The medical staff may suggest using over-the-counter pain relief medication.
- Maintain the first gauze pad over the extraction site for three to four hours after the procedure. Use a new gauze pad to control bleeding by applying light pressure until the bleeding stops.
- The use of an ice pack on the affected area should start right after the procedure, with 10-minute sessions to reduce swelling.
- Rest: The healing process requires patients to restrict their physical activities for a minimum of 24 hours.
- During the first few days after extraction, patients should eat only soft foods, including pudding and yogurt and applesauce. The healing of the extraction site will determine when you can start eating solid foods again.
- Keep brushing and flossing, but stay away from the extraction area. After 24 hours, gently rinse your mouth with a warm saltwater solution to keep the area clean.
- Do not rinse vigorously, use straws, smoke, or engage in activities that create suction, as these can dislodge the blood clot and lead to dry socket, a painful condition that delays healing.
Potential Risks and Complications
Although tooth extractions are usually safe, there are some possible risks:
- Dry Socket: Occurs when the blood clot at the extraction site is dislodged, exposing underlying bone and nerves. By carefully following aftercare guidelines, this can be avoided.
- Infection: Signs include fever, severe pain, pus, or prolonged swelling. If you encounter these symptoms, get in touch with your dentist.
- Nerve Injury: Though rare, nerve damage can occur, leading to numbness or tingling in the chin, tongue, or lips.
Your Trusted Dentist at City Square Dental Center
At City Square Dental Centre, you will find a dentist in Vancouver who delivers professional dental care within a soothing environment. Our skilled dental team at City Square Dental Centre delivers stress-free tooth extraction procedures to every patient. Our team provides complete procedure guidance while prioritizing your comfort and recovery needs.
Choose City Square Dental Centre for your appointment today to start your journey toward better oral health.