Tooth extraction is one of the dental procedures that worries people the most. However, tooth extraction is a common service, and happens frequently among adults. There are multiple reasons for the removal or extraction of a tooth, some of the most common reasons being advanced tooth decay or wisdom teeth removal.
Here at San Francisco Dental Arts we don’t want you to feel worried for your upcoming tooth removal, and want to accommodate your worries in the best way we can.
Why Pull the Tooth?
As previously mentioned, tooth decay can be one of the common causes for a tooth removal. This is due to the fact that the decay can spread and damage neighboring teeth and gum, especially if the tooth is dead (no longer receiving blood from its vessels).
A crowded mouth can lead to tooth extraction. Sometimes when braces are fixed, teeth are removed so other teeth can fit into place. Baby teeth can need an extraction if they don’t fall out before the adult teeth come through.
There are plenty of reasons to have teeth extracted, even if you practice good oral health. Tooth removal is not indicative of the condition of the oral cavity.
Extraction
Tooth extraction will be performed by one of our dentists or oral surgeons. They will give you a local anesthetic to numb the area where the tooth removal will be taking place. In some cases, they may also give a general anesthesia and put you to sleep.
The tooth will be slowly loosened through an implement called an elevator, and then removed with a pair of forceps. Some teeth may need to be removed in parts. If the tooth is infected or impacted, the dentist may need to remove some of the surrounding tissue as well.
Things to Keep in Mind After the Procedure
The healing process of a tooth extraction takes 7-10 days, with symptoms decreasing significantly after three days. You should not drink through a straw or smoke for 24 hours after the tooth extraction. If we gave you painkillers, then make sure to take them as directed. If not, then keep yourself on over-the-counter medications as necessary for discomfort.
Soft foods are ideal after a tooth extraction to prevent applying too much pressure on the sensitive area. Soup, ice cream, and yogurt are especially good for the first day, and then slowly add harder foods as the week progresses.
Our dentists will inform you on the correct procedures after the tooth extraction and if you are unsure, and the information is not covered here, please contact us to confirm the details of your recovery journey. We evaluate each patient and recommend the best course of action. In some cases, we may recommend dental implants.
If you continue to feel intense pain, or symptoms haven’t subsided after two weeks, contact San Francisco Dental Arts and we can investigate the problem. In the majority of cases, pain diminishes quickly, and people are able to get back to their normal lives within 24-48 hours after the extraction.
Is tooth extraction a daunting idea to you? We can help settle your nerves and talk you through the procedure; call us on 415-854-9396.
