Need a tooth extraction and worry about complications? Now with today’s modern procedures and follow-up care, most extractions are safe and simple. In some cases, complications can occur after tooth extraction, including getting a bone infection (which is highly unlikely).
If you’re worried about complications after your tooth extraction, read on.
Possible Complications After Tooth Extraction
If you have a tooth to be extracted, your dentist will remove your tooth from the bone socket in the upper or lower jaw. Sometimes complications such as dry socket and infection occur during this procedure.
Dry Socket: A common complication after removing a tooth is a dry socket, which occurs when the blood clot filling the space left by the extracted tooth is dislodged. Because the clot acts like a bandage inside the mouth during healing, its absence can expose nerves and cause discomfort. See your dentist right away if you notice the bone inside your socket is visible or if you experience severe pain in the days after the extraction.
Infection in the Mouth: Another potential complication following extraction is the development of a dental infection. Because after any dental procedure, there is a possibility of bacteria entering the body. Some signs of infection in the mouth include bad breath, a sour or bitter taste, fever, sensitivity to heat and cold, and swelling or tenderness in the gums, neck, or jaw.
The key is to report any signs of complications early so you can treat the problem right away and reduce the chances of it developing further.
Bone Infection After Tooth Extraction
Although quite rare, it is also possible to develop a bone infection after tooth extraction. This condition is clinically called osteomyelitis and although rare, it can be serious. Osteomyelitis can occur in the mouth when the open wound created during tooth extraction is contaminated and the infection spreads to the underlying bone. Osteomyelitis symptoms are similar to other dental infections, including:
Fire
Swelling, tenderness, or pain in the affected area
warmth or redness at the site
Weight loss and/or fatigue
Again, if you develop any of these symptoms after your tooth extraction, let your dentist know right away.
Prevention and Treatment
Treatment of bone infection depends on the extent of the infection. Surgery may be required to drain and clean the infected area, followed by antibiotics. In some cases, antibiotics may be sufficient. Other situations may require a bone graft (a surgical procedure that uses a transplanted bone to repair and rebuild damaged bone). Regular follow-up with your dentist may be needed after osteomyelitis treatment to keep you healthy.
It is also possible to prevent infection. Antibiotics can be protective as well as tooth extraction. It is always important to maintain your daily oral care and hygiene by brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist regularly.
Now you know what to watch out for about complications after tooth extraction. If you have pain, fever or tenderness in the area, contact your dentist immediately. This way, you can treat any complications and prevent further problems as soon as possible. While the likelihood of osteomyelitis after tooth extraction is low, it’s great to understand the possibility of infection and its signs and symptoms. Do not forget to ask your dentist everything that comes to your mind about your tooth extraction. After reading this article, they will be impressed by your knowledge of dentistry.