Extractions

Few things are more painful than a toothache. And if you have a cavity that runs deep or a tooth that is too damaged to save, extraction can bring a world of relief. Extraction is a fancy term to describe the removal of a natural tooth. While it’s always a last resort, there are many situations in which it’s the best solution. Your dentist in Avon, OH, will tell you when an extraction is necessary and why.

Why Is Extraction a Last Resort?

Saving a natural tooth is always preferable to pulling it, because once a natural tooth is extracted, something else must be put in its place. This might be a partial denture, a fixed bridge, or a dental implant. But something must fill the empty space where the tooth came out. Otherwise, your body will eventually reabsorb the bone beneath, and this causes a host of more serious dental concerns.

What About Wisdom Teeth?

The extraction of wisdom teeth is the only exception to the rule. When your dentist pulls or surgically extracts wisdom teeth, there’s no need to replace them. This is because wisdom teeth are actually a third set of molars that you don’t really need. Not everyone develops wisdom teeth; if they do, they’re often problematic because they crowd the teeth already in place. By taking out your wisdom teeth, your dentist gives the remaining teeth more space. This can prevent the crooked or misaligned teeth that often happen as a result of overcrowding.

What Happens During an Extraction?

Extraction is a common dental procedure that’s performed thousands of times a day worldwide. There’s no need to worry if your dentist tells you it’s time to have a tooth extracted. In fact, having a problematic tooth pulled often brings immense relief. Teeth that are badly damaged can cause painful toothaches and gum abscesses. By removing the tooth, your dentist eliminates the source of the pain. You’ll receive a numbing agent before the procedure, so all you’ll feel is a painless pulling sensation.

It takes only a few minutes for a dentist to extract a natural tooth, and your dental professional will have solutions for any pain you may have afterward. Usually, a prescription-strength painkiller, used short-term, is all that’s required.

What Happens in the Weeks Following the Extraction?

While it usually takes only a few days for any lingering discomfort to end, it may take several weeks for your gums to heal from a tooth extraction completely. During this time, you may revisit your dentist to have stitches removed, although many dental professionals today use self-dissolving stitches that disappear on their own.

It’s important to follow the post-procedural instructions given to you by your dentist in Avon, OH. This will help to prevent any complications, such as dry sockets, arising from the extraction.

Eventually, you and your dentist will meet again to discuss options for filling the space left behind after the tooth is removed.

What’s the Best Way to Prevent Having a Tooth Extracted?

Prevention is a joint responsibility between you and your dental professional. If you make and keep regular cleaning appointments and address cavities early on, you may never need a tooth extraction. You must follow a healthy oral care routine at home, too. This usually entails brushing several times a day, flossing, and using an antiseptic mouthwash regularly.

Of course, sometimes something else compromises a tooth to the point it must be removed. These include:

• Trauma to the tooth
• Chronic diseases, such as oral cancer
• Impaction

In these instances, extraction may be necessary to restore the function of the tooth and the appearance of your smile.

Help for Tooth Extraction in Avon, OH

If you have more questions regarding tooth extraction in Avon, OH, give Weston Dental a call. At Weston Dental, we’re always happy to sit down with our patients and discuss their dental goals. We’re also happy to answer any questions you may have regarding your upcoming dental procedure. Call today to schedule a consultation with one of our friendly and experienced dental professionals.

Sources:

dentalhealth.org