If you have crowded and crooked teeth or an impacted wisdom tooth you may need a tooth extraction. Tooth extractions are a common general dental service, and are used to remove teeth that are overcrowded, infected, or decaying. Extraction not only helps remove the problem but improves the oral health of patients who undergo the procedure.
Reasons for Tooth Extraction
Dentists extract teeth in cases where the teeth or gums have negatively impacted a patient’s oral health. Some common reasons for extraction include:
Periodontal Disease: Also known as gum disease, periodontal disease can easily impact the health of gums and teeth. Patients with excessive damage due to gum disease may need a tooth extraction.
Extensive Tooth Decay: A simple tooth extraction may be the only option in advanced cases of tooth decay. Sometimes a tooth can not be saved using conservative measures. In severe cases, extraction prevents decay from spreading and causing more damage. then the tooth may need to be extracted to prevent decay from spreading and causing more damage.
Impacted Wisdom Tooth: Impacted wisdom teeth need extraction in most cases. They cause tooth or gum infection, tooth pain, or severe tooth damage to neighboring teeth. Patients who are in their late teens or early 20s are the most likely candidates for wisdom teeth removal. Dr. Patel will monitor the development of wisdom teeth in our young patients and can offer wisdom tooth extraction for all ages in most situations.
Overcrowding: Overcrowded teeth can lead to complex bite disorders, crooked teeth, excessive enamel wear, and jaw pain. Overcrowding can also increase the risk of tooth decay as it can be difficult to clean between crooked teeth. Removing overcrowded teeth can help alleviate painful symptoms and prevent gum disease.
The Tooth Extraction Procedure
A local anesthetic numbs the treatment area to minimize tooth sensitivity. After the tooth or teeth are extracted, the open area will be rinsed, cleaned, and then packed with gauze.
Dr. Dhara Patel may recommend dental implants, dental bridges, or dentures and partials to replace a missing tooth or teeth following the procedure. Restorative options can help prevent further gum and tooth problems by replacing missing teeth.
Tooth Extraction FAQs
Can I eat normally after tooth extraction?
After a tooth extraction dentists typically tell their patients to stick to a soft diet for at least 24 hours, but many patients continue the soft diet for a few days. Some foods that are common and easy to eat are yogurt, Jell-O, milkshakes, pudding, and smoothies.
Can I brush with toothpaste after an extraction?
After performing a tooth extraction, avoid brushing the area that the tooth was extracted from for 3-4 days. It lets the gums clot and heal and avoid dry socket. Avoid brushing with toothpaste. It is best to rinse with water and wipe the area with gauze.
How long does it take for a tooth extraction to heal?
Your gums need time to heal and form clots to protect the area. After 3 days post-extraction patients’ gums should begin to heal and patients may begin to introduce foods other than their soft diet. It takes about a week to 10 days for gums to heal and swelling to go down.
Does Dr. Patel extract wisdom teeth?
Dr. Patel will extract wisdom teeth in most cases. In the event of a complex case where there is significant impaction, she may refer you to a local oral surgeon for care.
Request a Dental Exam Today
If you need one or more teeth extracted, call Best Dental Spa at 847.660.6603. You can also schedule an appointment with us online at your convenience and we will get back to you in a timely manner.
IF YOU HAVE MORE QUESTIONS CONTACT US
(224)293-6282
