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Tooth Extraction for Pain ManagementThe teeth have numerous essential functions. When the teeth are damaged or decayed, it is necessary to seek treatment right away. Ideally, damaged or decayed teeth are saved, whether with a crown, a filling, or another type of treatment. However, if the damage is too severe, for instance, the tooth is cracked below the gum line or shattered, saving the tooth may not be possible. In cases of severe damage, extractions are the best option for protecting your oral health and restoring your quality of life, as these teeth that need to be extracted can cause quite a deal of pain. At Fairmount Dental Center, we can perform your necessary tooth extractions. How is a Tooth Extracted?There are two types of tooth removal procedures. One of them is called a simple extraction, which is fairly straightforward and does not take longer than a few minutes. In order for you to be a candidate for this kind of operation, the tooth that will be removed needs to be fully visible in the mouth, or at least visible enough so we have room to work safely. The process consists of the use of a tool called an elevator, which will loosen your tooth from its socket by applying gentle movements so a dental forcep can pull it out. Local anesthesia is typically used in order to avoid pain and discomfort. However, if a tooth is not entirely visible due to trauma or impact, a surgical extraction may need to be performed. Severely damaged or impacted teeth require surgical extraction. During the procedure, a portion of the soft tissue that hugs the tooth and its neighboring teeth is elevated to reveal it. In case the tooth is stuck or too deep into the jawbone, drilling a portion of the bone may be required. Cutting the tooth in parts is sometimes done to facilitate the removal process. For surgical extractions, general anesthesia (instead of local which is used in a simple extraction) may also be considered. Following a surgical extraction, there is a recovery period. You will be provided with specific instructions to help ensure that your recovery goes smoothly. The Healing ProcessAfter the operation is done, the patient will apply pressure to the area by biting a piece of sterilized gauze, which will help the socket form blood clots. The overall recovery usually takes from three days up to two weeks. If multiple teeth were taken out, then you may have to wait a bit longer. Pain, swelling, and minimal bleeding are normal during the first days, but if this becomes severe, then you should call us immediately. As your mouth heals from the tooth extraction procedure, you should begin to feel better, as the tooth that was once causing you pain is no longer bothering you. As time passes, your smile should naturally straighten if the extracted teeth were creating crowding, but if that was not the problem, then we may advise a dental implant to avoid jaw resorption and other complications. Depending on your own unique case, a bridge or partial denture may also be recommended. If you would like to learn more about tooth removal, please do not hesitate to contact us Fairmount Dental Center at (503) 362-8364 today. |
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