Tooth Extraction is a regular dental procedure. It comprises the removal of a tooth from its socket in the bone. The tooth is extracted so that it does not affect the adjoining teeth. It cannot be avoided in cases such as severe tooth decay, damage, or serious injury to the tooth. Dental extractions are deemed to be fit as the gums have a natural repairing quality. The procedures are considered to be safe and practical.

Not all teeth are removed only due to untreatable infections or decay. Some people have their wisdom teeth extracted to prevent the overcrowding of the teeth or in situations where the wisdom tooth has not erupted correctly. The wisdom tooth, which is located at the back portion of the mouth, has no vital function; hence its removal does not hamper the normal functioning of the mouth.
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What is the process of Tooth Extraction?

As a first step, the dentist will examine the tooth with a discussion about your dental and medical history. Based on this information, a decision is taken if you are fit for an extraction. X-rays are taken to determine the shape, length, and location of the tooth and the surrounding bone. In case of complex health conditions, the patient might be referred to an oral surgeon.

The actual procedure of pulling out the tooth begins with the numbing of the area around the tooth using a local anesthetic. The tooth is loosened with an instrument called an elevator and removed with dental forceps. A surgical extraction might require intravenous anesthesia to induce sleep. The oral surgeons will make a small cut into the gums and remove the damaged or infected tooth.

What should you do after the extraction? 

The most crucial thing after a tooth extraction is to keep the area surrounding it clean to prevent infection. To stop the bleeding, a dry piece of sterile gauze is kept in the empty space for about 30-45 minutes. For the next twenty-four hours, you shouldn’t smoke or rinse your mouth energetically.

A certain amount of pain and discomfort will persist after an extraction. An icepack might help to decrease the pain and swelling. It will be best to avoid hot foods. The discomfort will subside in three to four days. However, if you have persistent pain and bleeding, it is best to consult your doctor immediately.

When should you decide on a tooth extraction?

Dental extractions apart from damage and injuries become mandatory in the following cases:

  • Crowded Teeth:As we age, the likelihood of crowded teeth increases. If you have four wisdom teeth, there are probabilities that your mouth gets crowded, and the other teeth start intersecting it. This may cause difficulties in chewing and biting, giving you a crooked smile. The extraction of the wisdom teeth will lead to proper alignment and enable a flawless smile.
  • Infection:Damaged or decaying teeth can spread to the nerves and blood vessels of the tooth, causing infection. The bacteria in the mouth may accumulate and build up, causing infection to the gums, ultimately leading to serious diseases. The removable of the infected tooth is the best alternative to prevent further conditions.
  • Gum Disease: It is an infection of the bones and tissues that support the teeth. The infected gums may not be able to support the tooth making it difficult to chew and bite. In such cases, the removal of the infected tooth will be the best option.