Why You Might Need a Tooth Extraction and What to Expect

why you might need a tooth extraction and what to expect

Has your dentist mentioned tooth extraction? For some of us, such words can really send chills down the spine. If you believe you are in the situation for an extraction, you might want to visit clinics for wisdom teeth removal in Millwoods right away. However, knowing what to expect and what to do after the procedure, whether it is an extraction or you need an oral surgeon, is equally important – as it can help you to avoid infections and to speed up the recovery.

If you believe you have some complications following a tooth extraction, make sure you contact your nearest dental office in Millwoods as soon as possible. Otherwise, have a look over the following sections for more information.

Why Would I Need a Tooth Extraction?

• Tooth decay

• Wisdom teeth

• Infection

Tooth decay can lead to the necessity of extracting the tooth. While most cases only require a crown or just a dental filling, some severe ones require a complete tooth extraction if the tooth suffers from too much decay.

If you have pain because of your wisdom teeth, they will have to be removed in order to maintain good oral health. If you believe this is your case, make sure you get in contact with a dentist who can offer tooth extraction near you.

Lastly, some teeth need to be extracted if they develop severe infections. For instance, if you take medication that lowers your immunity, you might have to remove the tooth in order to minimise the risks. Such situations are common with patients who had organ transplants or take medication for cancer.

What to Expect in The Case of a Tooth Extraction

Usually, but depending on your situation, the dentist will ask you to take antibiotics prior to the procedure – so, you will get a prescription which needs to be taken as recommended by your dentist.

The tooth extraction procedure commences with numbing the area using anesthesia so that you will not feel any pain. Then, the tooth will be loosened by grabbing it with forceps and rocking it back and forth. Once it is loose enough, it will be extracted. In case you are removing a wisdom tooth that is not fully erupted, the dentist will also have to remove some of the surrounding gum tissue. If this is your case, the dentist will use self-dissolving stitches which will close back the gum.

Recovery Process

You will recover in a few days, although you need to make sure you follow some guidelines in order to minimize the possibility of infections. Such guidelines include:

• Keeping yourself hydrated by having lots of liquids.

• Maintaining good oral health and cleaning gently around the extraction area.

• Avoid any spots or intensive activities until you have healed.

• Eating soft foods.

• If you are swollen, apply ice packs.

Wrapping Up

All in all, tooth extraction is not so pleasant, but it is necessary for overall health, not only your dental health. Numerous studies have proven the relationship between dental health and overall health, along with the links between poor oral hygiene and diseases such as heart disease and lung conditions.

Make sure that you keep up with your oral hygiene at all times, whether you have had or will be undergoing this procedure. Additionally, ensure that you check regularly with a dentist near you if you have any concerning symptoms, such as pain or if you suspect that you need a tooth extraction. Our dental office in Millwoods is here to help you maintain a beautiful and healthy smile for the rest of your life. Get in touch today!