Needing a tooth extraction can often be stress-inducing. Sometimes, a tooth cannot be restored and must be removed. Despite this common perception, in many cases, a simple tooth extraction is a simple, relatively painless procedure, and patients heal quickly. Our experienced team is here to guide you through the process with care and expertise, whether it’s due to severe decay, trauma, or other dental issues. We will do whatever we can to ensure your comfort and oral health. Dr. Gorsky can often perform simple tooth extractions with a local aesthetician in the comfort of our dental office. For anxious patients, we also offer conscious sedation options for a relaxed and stress-free experience.
Why Do I Need A Tooth Extraction?
While our priority is always to preserve your natural teeth whenever possible, there are times when extraction becomes necessary for the sake of your oral health.
When a tooth is broken or has significant decay, the ideal solution is to restore it using a filling, crown, or other procedure. If restoration is not possible or advisable due to the condition of the tooth, an extraction may be recommended to prevent infection and achieve or maintain oral health.
Other reasons for tooth extraction include:
- advanced gum disease causing loosening of the tooth
- overcrowding of the teeth in preparation for orthodontic treatment
The Tooth Extraction Process
Understanding the tooth extraction process can help put your mind at ease.
Consultation: Before the extraction, our team will conduct a thorough exam of your tooth and discuss the reasons for extraction. We may take X-rays to assess the tooth’s position and the surrounding structures.
Anesthesia: Most extractions can be performed with the use of local anesthesia to numb the area around the tooth. This will minimize discomfort during the procedure. For more complex extractions or if you’re feeling particularly anxious, we have sedation options available to ensure your comfort.
Extraction: Once the area is numb, your dentist will gently loosen and remove the tooth using special instruments. Immediately after removing the tooth, we place gauze pads for the patient to bite down on the tooth socket to apply pressure and stop bleeding. Stitches are sometimes needed and may dissolve or require removal at a follow-up appointment.
Post-Extraction Care: After the extraction, it is crucial to follow your dentist’s instructions for proper care and healing. You may be prescribed pain medication or antibiotics to manage discomfort and prevent infection. It is also crucial to avoid certain activities, such as vigorous rinsing or drinking through a straw. Otherwise, this can dislodge the blood clot and delay healing.
Tips for Recovery
After your procedure, you can provide speed and comfort to your recovery with the following steps:
- To reduce swelling and discomfort, apply an ice pack to the affected area for 10-15 minutes at a time.
- stick to a diet of soft foods like yogurt, applesauce, and mashed potatoes while your mouth heals.
- Smoking can impede the healing process and increase the risk of complications. If you smoke, try to refrain from smoking for as long as possible after the extraction
- While avoiding the extraction site, continue to brush and floss gently to keep the rest of your mouth clean and prevent infection.