TOOTH EXTRACTIONS

The best teeth for your smile are the ones you already have, and at Ghotanian Dental , our dentists and team do everything possible to avoid an extraction. However, there may be times when an extraction may be the healthiest option for your smile. If you think you may need a tooth extraction in, Dr. Ghotanian will be happy to see you. Call us today to speak with a member of our team.

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Dental extractions serve as a last resort for irreparable teeth, creating space for your dentist to introduce a substitute tooth.

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Situations Where Tooth Extractions are Necessary

Tooth extraction is recommended when tooth decay is so extensive that nothing can be done to salvage the tooth. It’s also ideal when the tooth is infected, or there’s a high chance of infection. Generally, it’s best to treat dental issues with procedures like fillings and root canals, as they help to preserve the natural tooth. However, in some cases, dental extraction would be the best solution.

 

Such circumstances include when:

• The decay eats deep into the gum

• There’s a severe periodontal disease

• The tooth Is cracked

• The tooth has an untreatable infection

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Types of Tooth Extractions

Tooth extractions can be performed by either a general dentist or a dental surgeon. There are two main types of extractions: simple extractions and surgical extractions. Simple extractions are carried out on visible teeth in the mouth. The dentist will use an elevator to loosen the tooth and then extract it with forceps.

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Surgical extractions, however, are more complex. They are the preferred option if the tooth has broken off at the gum line or has not yet erupted. The procedure begins with a small incision in the gum surrounding the affected tooth, making it easier to remove. If needed, the dentist may also extract some bone around the tooth.

Following the extraction, your dentist may suggest dental implants as a replacement for the missing tooth, depending on your oral health. Further dental assessments may be necessary to determine the ideal tooth replacement based on your specific needs.

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What To Expect From a Tooth Extraction Procedure

During a dental extraction procedure, your dentist may need to perform several steps. Typically, an extraction takes around one hour to complete. 

 

X-Ray

The first step is usually taking an x-ray of the affected tooth to evaluate the surrounding bone condition and the location of the tooth's roots under the gum line.

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Clinical Review

Using the X-ray, your dentist will determine the suitable extraction method and develop a comprehensive tooth extraction plan.

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Extraction

Your dentist will apply a local or general anesthetic to ensure that the extraction procedure is comfortable and pain-free. Once the tooth is successfully removed, gauze will be placed on the area to reduce bleeding. If necessary, your dentist may also suture the area to promote faster healing of the gums.

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Are Dental Extractions Painful?

The use of an anesthetic during a dental extraction procedure means that you are unlikely to experience significant pain throughout the procedure. You will be numb, and you may only feel some pressure as the dentist attempts to remove the tooth. Dental extraction is an effective solution for eliminating pain caused by severe tooth decay.

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Contrary to popular belief, dentists do not actually "pull out teeth." Instead, the dentist applies gentle pressure to nudge the tooth. Eventually, the ligaments holding the tooth in place will break, and the tooth will come out relatively easily.

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What to Do After Extraction

Following a tooth extraction procedure, you will need to rest at home for a few days to allow for proper recovery. With sufficient rest and appropriate care, the wounds left after the procedure should heal quickly and without complications.

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It is advisable to rest at home for the first 24 hours and avoid going to work or school. Additionally, you should limit strenuous activities in the first few days to minimize bleeding and promote the blood clotting process.

To avoid infections or other complications, it is crucial to follow your dentist's instructions. Applying a cold compress to your cheek around the extraction area can reduce the likelihood of swelling. It is also important to refrain from smoking, drinking through straws, or brushing your teeth vigorously to accelerate the healing process of the extraction wound.

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If you suspect that you need a tooth extraction, please contact Ghotanian Dental. We will conduct a thorough examination of your tooth, address all your dental concerns, and provide you with advice on the best procedure for your specific problem.

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