Tooth Extractions
What Are Extractions?
Teeth extraction is the process of removing a tooth from the tooth socket. At Dawson Modern Dentistry, we review all possible measures to avoid the extraction. However, in certain cases, extractions are unavoidable to preserve the health of the overall mouth. Patients who have severe decay, gum disease, or irreparable damage may need an extraction. If a tooth is beyond repair or is severely infected, we will remove the tooth to protect your overall oral health. Some of the other most common reasons to remove a tooth include:
- Severe decay or infection
- Damage from trauma
- Impacted wisdom teeth
- Orthodontic treatment
- Extra teeth
- Tooth loss
Teeth Extraction Process - How Does Extraction Work?
ANESTHESIA & PREPARATION
Prior to your tooth extraction, your dentist or oral surgeon will administer local anesthesia to numb the area around the tooth. This often consists of applying a numbing gel or administering an injection to numb the nerves around your tooth.
INCISION (SURGICAL EXTRACTIONS)
Once your anesthetic has taken effect, your dentist will carefully widen your socket by rocking your tooth back and forth with dental tools. They will then make a small incision in your gum line in order to access your dental roots.
LOOSENING THE TOOTH
The dentist will use an instrument called an elevator to loosen the tooth from the socket. Once the tooth is loosened, the dentist will proceed with its extraction.
REMOVAL OF THE TOOTH
The loosened tooth is extracted with forceps. Forceps grasp the tooth and remove it from the socket.
CLOSING THE SOCKET
After the tooth is removed, the dentist will suture the socket closed. The suture is composed of 2-3 stitches that dissolve over time. Over time, the gum tissue will heal in the socket.
RECOVERY AND HEALING
The healing time after tooth extractions varies from person to person. Chewing, biting on the inside of your cheeks, and drinking liquids should be restricted during this healing time.
AFTERCARE AND FOLLOW-UP
After your extraction, make sure you rest with your head elevated. Take all medications as prescribed. To control the swelling, prop yourself up with pillows and place an ice pack on your face.
Types Of Extractions
Simple extraction
Simple extractions are the process of removing teeth that are visible above the gums. These teeth are easily accessible, usually meaning that they can be removed by a dentist without having to cut the surrounding gums. During a simple extraction, the dentist loosens the tooth using an elevator and grasps it with dental forceps to remove it from the socket.
Have Questions About Tooth Extraction? Find Answers Here.
Do you have a question? Or do you wish to schedule an appointment with us? Call Dawson Modern Dentistry at (704) 565-9512 or visit Dentist in Matthews NC at 3555-2 Matthews-Mint Hill Rd, Matthews, NC 28105.
