A tooth extraction is a necessary dental service that involves removing a tooth from its socket in the jawbone. The dentists at Storts Family Dentistry can provide you with a tooth extraction in Madill and Ardmore, OK if you ever require one. However, we always strive to preserve the natural teeth. Unfortunately, there are situations where an extraction becomes the best option for our patient’s oral health and overall well-being.
Common Reasons for Tooth Extraction
Dentists only use a tooth extraction when necessary. Your dentist may suggest it for various reasons. Here is a list of common reasons our dental team may utilize extractions.
- Severe Decay: If you suffer from tooth decay and do not have the tooth treated, the decay can advance and severely damage the tooth. When a tooth becomes significantly compromised and cannot be effectively treated with a dental filling or root canal, the only other option is to extract the tooth. This will prevent the spread of infection to surrounding teeth.
- Gum Disease: Untreated gum disease will advance into periodontitis, the advanced stage of gum disease. This can cause your teeth to start loosening. In many of these cases, extracting the affected tooth can prevent further damage to the surrounding tissues and bones.
- Impacted Teeth: Impacted teeth, such as wisdom teeth, do not have enough space to emerge properly. This can cause further problems. Impacted teeth lead to pain, infection, and potential damage to adjacent teeth. Removing impacted teeth is a common dental procedure.
- Orthodontic Treatment: Another common dental practice is to remove some teeth for orthodontic treatment. It will create space to help achieve proper alignment.
- Trauma: Teeth that are severely damaged due to accidents or trauma may need to be extracted if they cannot be effectively restored.
About Wisdom Teeth Removal
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of molars located at the back of the mouth. These teeth typically emerge during late adolescence or early adulthood. Due to evolution, our jaws have become smaller, leaving inadequate space for these additional teeth. As a result, wisdom teeth often become impacted. This simply means they cannot fully emerge from the gum line. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, swelling, infection, and even cyst formation. To prevent these issues and maintain oral health, dentists often recommend removing wisdom teeth.
Steps in the Tooth Extraction Process
- Your dentist will start by examining the tooth’s condition and your overall oral health. They will take X-rays to determine the tooth’s position, shape, and roots. Based on this exam, your dentist will develop a personalized extraction plan.
- All tooth extraction procedures will be performed under local anesthesia. We will administer it to numb the tooth and the surrounding area. This will ensure you do not feel any pain while the dentist extracts your tooth. For complex cases, multiple extractions, or if you suffer from dental anxiety, we also offer sedation dentistry for your comfort.
- Using specialized dental instruments, your dentist gently loosens the tooth from its socket. In some cases, a dentist might need to divide a tooth into smaller pieces for easier removal. Your dentist will ensure that there is minimal trauma to the surrounding tissues and bones during the extraction.
- After our dentist removes your tooth, we will remove debris from the extraction site. If required, your dentist will use sutures to close up your wound to promote proper healing. Your dentist will place a gauze layer over the extraction site to control bleeding and facilitate blood clot formation.
- We will provide you with specific post-extraction care instructions. It is important to follow these care instructions carefully to help you heal properly and manage your pain. Diligently following these instructions will also help avoid a dry socket, a condition that can occur after an extraction.
Options for Replacing Extracted Teeth
After a tooth extraction, it’s essential to consider your tooth replacement options. This will help you maintain your oral health, oral function, and aesthetics. Patients have several options to replace extracted teeth:
Dental Implants
Dental implants are a popular and long-lasting option for tooth replacement. A titanium implant is surgically placed in the jawbone, serving as a sturdy foundation for a custom-made dental crown. Dental implants look and function like natural teeth, providing a permanent solution for tooth loss. To learn more about the dental implant process, see Dental Implants.
Dental Bridges
Dental bridges consist of one or more artificial teeth anchored to adjacent natural teeth or dental implants. Bridges are an effective way to fill the gap left by the extracted tooth, restoring the patient’s ability to chew and speak properly. To learn more about the different types of dental bridges, see Dental Bridge.
Dentures
Dentures are removable appliances that replace multiple missing teeth. They can be full dentures, replacing all teeth in an arch, or partial dentures, filling gaps between natural teeth. Dentures are convenient and offer a cost-effective solution for tooth replacement. To learn more about the benefits of dentures, see Dentures and Partials.
Frequently Asked Questions
We have answers to some of the commonly asked questions patients have about tooth extraction.
How long does bleeding last after tooth extraction?
Bleeding after a tooth extraction usually lasts a few hours, though light oozing may continue for up to 24 hours. To control the bleeding, bite down on a gauze pad for 30 to 45 minutes right after the extraction. If bleeding persists or becomes heavy after several hours, contact your dentist. Following their aftercare instructions, like avoiding vigorous rinsing or spitting, can also help manage bleeding.
How long after having teeth extraction can you get dentures?
You can usually get dentures 6 to 8 weeks after teeth extraction. This waiting period allows your gums and jawbone to heal properly and ensures a better fit for dentures. In some cases, we can place immediate dentures right after the extraction, but you may need adjustments as your mouth heals. Your dentist will guide you on the best timing based on your healing process and needs.
How long should I keep the gauze in after wisdom tooth extraction?
You should keep the gauze in place for about 30 to 45 minutes after wisdom tooth extraction to help control bleeding and promote clot formation. If bleeding continues, you can replace the gauze with a fresh piece and bite down gently for another 30 minutes. After that, remove the gauze and follow your dentist’s instructions for further care. If heavy bleeding persists, contact your dentist for advice.
How many days do you need to recover from wisdom teeth removal?
Recovery from wisdom teeth removal usually takes 3 to 5 days for the initial healing, though some discomfort and swelling can last up to a week. Most people feel well enough to resume normal activities within a few days. The full healing of the gums and bone can take several weeks. Following your dentist’s post-operative care instructions, including rest, pain management, and oral hygiene, helps speed up recovery.
How soon can I eat after tooth extraction?
Once the numbness from the anesthesia wears off, you can start eating soft foods a few hours after a tooth extraction. It’s important to stick to soft foods like yogurt, applesauce, mashed potatoes, and soup for the first 24 hours. Avoid chewing on the extraction site, and steer clear of hot, spicy, or crunchy foods that could irritate the area. You can gradually reintroduce solid foods as you feel comfortable and your mouth heals. Follow your dentist’s specific advice for the best recovery.
What are the warning signs of a dry socket?
Warning signs of a dry socket can appear 2-3 days after extraction. Severe pain is the most common symptom. You might see an empty-looking socket where the blood clot should be. Bad breath or an unpleasant taste in your mouth can also indicate a dry socket. Some patients experience pain radiating to their ear, eye, or neck on the affected side. If you experience these symptoms 1-5 days after extraction, contact us promptly for evaluation and treatment.
Will a dry socket heal on its own?
A dry socket can heal on its own, but it’s painful and may take longer to heal without treatment. It occurs when the blood clot that forms after an extraction dissolves, exposing the bone and nerves. This can lead to serious pain and a slower healing process. If you suspect a dry socket, it’s best to contact our office. We can provide treatments to relieve pain and promote faster healing.
A tooth extraction is a necessary general dentistry treatment that will help improve the oral health of many patients. If you are experiencing tooth pain or need to schedule your regular dental appointment, contact Storts Family Dentistry today. You can reach us at (580) 260-3410 or by requesting an appointment online.