There are several reasons why you may need a tooth extraction. If you have advanced periodontal disease, a deep cavity that cannot be fixed with root canal treatment, or extreme sensitivity, your dentist may recommend going for an extraction. There are two types of extractions – simple and surgical. When you visit a Waikiki dental care clinic for a consultation, your dentist will explain the procedure. In this post, we are sharing more about simple tooth extractions.
Reasons to get a simple extraction
A simple extraction is essential when you have pain and discomfort. It could be related to periodontal disease that has loosened the root of a tooth or a situation where you have an extra tooth. The procedure is also necessary before orthodontic treatments and to remove a fractured tooth. If there is an infection inside a tooth, your dentist may consider root canal therapy, which involves several steps. However, if RCT is unlikely to save the tooth, an extraction is the only option.
The procedure
There are several steps in a tooth extraction –
- During the first appointment, your dentist will check whether the procedure is required. They will also take x-rays of the tooth and discuss the steps in detail.
- Next, your dentist will use local anesthesia to numb the gums and tissues surrounding the tooth. They will use a tool known as the elevator to lift the tooth and loosen the gum tissues.
- Finally, the dentist will use a pair of forceps to rock the targeted tooth and remove it from the mouth.
- Your dentist will place gauze in the tooth’s socket. In some cases, stitches are necessary to close the tooth’s socket.
- You will receive care instructions, including the diet you can eat. You should avoid drinking from a straw immediately after an extraction.
Although not common, dentists may need to break a tooth into pieces for removal.
Does a tooth extraction cause pain?
The short answer is no. You may feel some pressure as the dentist rocks the tooth for removal. However, because local anesthesia is used, there won’t be any pain. You may have some pain after the effects of anesthesia wear off, and you can take over-the-counter painkillers as suggested by your dentist.
Following an extraction, your dentist will also discuss the best ways to replace the missing tooth. Options like dental implants, bridges, and dentures are the common treatments available for most patients. You should discuss the pros and cons of each before making a decision.