If you have an appointment for a tooth extraction procedure coming up, you’re probably a little anxious, particularly if you’re extracting a tooth for the first time. To help you feel more comfortable with the process, we want to give you a clear idea of what to expect so you’re cool as a cucumber when the “big day” comes. Your dentist or an oral surgeon can conduct a tooth extraction procedure, which is straightforward and for the most part, brief. Your dentist may use various types of sedation dentistry before the procedure is carried out to ensure your comfort and ease. Note, you will remain unconscious during the operation with general anesthesia.
The removal of visible teeth is considered a “simple extraction”. Teeth that are missing or affected under the surface need more active treatment in other words, a “surgical extraction”. Read on to find out what happens during a typical tooth extraction.
Preparing for a tooth extraction
Your full medical and dental history must be obtained in preparation for surgery, as well as a list of all medications you use. It covers any vitamins, supplements or medications that are over-the-counter, as well as any medicines that you are allergic to. The best way to extract the infected tooth is to first conduct an X-ray.
Before or after surgery, you may need to take antibiotics depending on the length of the operation or if you have a specific medical condition. If required, we’ll discuss this with you.
What should be expected during a tooth extraction?
The extraction process is quite fast and easy. However, there are 2 types of tooth removal, this depends on the location of the tooth and if it is impacted or not. During simple extraction, your dentist will administer a local anesthetic that numbs your tooth and its surrounding area so that you will only experience pressure rather than actual pain. Your dentist will then use an elevator—a dental tool to gently allow the tooth to become loose and will remove it using forceps.
A slight incision into your gum by your dentist or oral surgeon will occur. They may be required to break your tooth’s bone or slice your tooth before they can extract your tooth. Operational extraction is a bit of a more complicated process that is required when a tooth has yet to break through the surface of the gum or has not fully erupted into the mouth. The oral surgeon will create a tiny incision into your gum when surgical removal is required to reach the problematic tooth. The method resembles a simple extraction from here. If necessary, your oral surgeon can stitch the site of the incision.
Post-Surgery
You will be instructed to bite for 20-30 minutes on a piece of gauze once the procedure is finished. This pressure aids in the formation of a blood clot at the site of extraction, a vital part of the process of healing.
Minimal bleeding 24 hours after surgery is considered normal. After the procedure, you will be given a series of medication and pain management drugs to help in the recovery process. Generally, the extraction site will close within 2 weeks, but the bone and soft tissue may need three to six months to regrow.
If you are looking to have a tooth extraction in La Crete or looking for a dentist in La Crete, you should pay Twilight Dental Centre a visit. Schedule your appointment today and learn how you can improve your oral health.