Do you need a tooth extraction and it needs to be removed with a surgical procedure?
Surgical tooth extraction is actually the most common surgical procedure.In most cases, tooth extraction is a fairly simple procedure. Although rare, it is somewhat more complex and requires a more extensive procedure. Read on to learn why tooth extraction happens in the first place, why surgical extraction of teeth may be necessary, and how to care for your mouth after surgical extraction.
Why Can’t the Teeth Be Saved?
Although it is always desirable to save your teeth, there are situations when teeth need to be extracted. Causes include trauma, illness, and crowding in the mouth.
If a tooth cannot be repaired using a crown or filling, tooth extraction may be the best option. In addition to infected (abscessed) teeth that do not respond to root canal treatment, teeth that are not adequately supported by bone due to periodontal disease may need to be extracted. Also, it’s not uncommon for an orthodontist to recommend a shot or two before braces due to crowded teeth. Similarly, wisdom teeth are often extracted because they may be impacted or do not have enough space to fully erupt into the mouth.
Simple Extractions and Surgical Extractions
What is simple tooth extraction? When a tooth appears above the gumline and your dentist can easily remove it with forceps, all you need is a simple tooth extraction.
However, if your dentist needs to remove gum tissue or bone to extract your tooth, you will likely need a surgical extraction. Don’t worry though. With today’s technology and dental developments, your comfort and safety will be supported. You will need stitches and will likely be prescribed pain relievers so you can heal quickly and with minimal discomfort.
Causes of Surgical Extraction
By taking an X-ray and examining your tooth, your dentist can usually decide whether you need a simple or surgical extraction. However, there are times when a simple extraction requires a surgical procedure. For example, if a tooth breaks during the procedure, your dentist may need to perform a more extensive surgical procedure.
Other reasons for surgical extraction include:
Extraction of wisdom teeth, if they are affected and bone and tissue should be excised
When removing broken teeth
removing root tips or teeth with long curved roots
If a tooth or molar is broken at the gumline
Post-Extraction Instructions
In surgical extractions, you will most likely have stitches that need care. Regardless of whether your extraction is simple or surgical, it is always important to closely follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions. This way, you can set yourself up for a speedy recovery and avoid any complications. Here are some things your dentist will recommend you do following the procedure:
Give your mouth a rest: Avoid unnecessary talking, eating and drinking for two hours after the shot. Also, do not use straws, smoke, or spit while you are healing.
Drink liquids and soft foods: Drink plenty of warm or cold fluids after the bleeding has subsided. Liquid and soft foods are usually recommended before returning to your normal diet. Your dentist will advise you which diet is recommended for your recovery.
Avoid brushing the area: Do not rinse or brush your teeth for 12 hours. You can then brush your teeth as you usually do, avoiding the teeth around the extraction site. Your dentist may ask you to rinse with a prescription mouthwash or warm salt water.
Listen to your dentist about pain medications: Follow your dentist’s instructions regarding taking any prescription pain medication. These drugs can help you heal without pain, but they do come with some risks. Discuss the risks and benefits of using prescription pain medication with your dentist before taking these medications.
If pain or bleeding persists, contact your dentist immediately: Doing this is very important in your healing process and will prevent complications.
So if you need to have your tooth surgically extracted, there is nothing to worry about. Today’s modern procedures and tooth extraction with anesthesia will provide you with better oral health in the long run. Now you know why teeth need to be extracted and why your dentist should perform surgical tooth extraction. After the treatment, you may need to take care of your stitches and eat soft or liquid foods. Also, be sure not to brush the healing area. It’s always important to follow your dentist’s instructions after a procedure and call them if you have persistent pain or bleeding. Therefore, if your removal procedure is imminent, you can feel safe and prepared.
