Getting tooth extraction can seem like a nightmare! The mere thought of the pain, the blood, and the aftercare required might make you shy away from visiting the dentist.
But you must realise that there are some situations where tooth extraction becomes crucial. There are specific reasons why your dentist might suggest a dental extraction. Let us look at what those possibilities are and how they will add to the betterment of your oral health.
What is a tooth extraction?
In very simple terms, it is a procedure by which your tooth is taken out of the gum by a dentist or oral surgeon. People do generally refer to it as an act of “pulling out” the tooth. Nevertheless, your dentist may decide on the means of extracting the tooth from the dental socket based on your specific requirements and dental health.
Is tooth extraction the last resort?
Let’s just say that your dentist knows what is ideal for your dental health. That said, dentists recommend fillings or root canal treatment in cases where the natural teeth can be saved. But when that becomes impossible and the presence of the said tooth is causing harm to the overall dental hygiene, your dentist will recommend an extraction. So, yes. In a way, extraction is the last resort.
Types of extraction
There are different types of tooth extraction procedures that are commonly performed.
Simple extraction
Simple extraction is performed on teeth that are visible and easily accessible. Here, your dentist pulls out the teeth using dental forceps. Usually, local anaesthesia is administered before the extraction. Further, an elevator is used to loosen the tissues surrounding the teeth before extracting them with forceps. After the extraction, gauze is used on the area to lower blood flow. In the case of a simple extraction, all you will feel is mild pressure and not much pain.
Surgical extraction
Surgical extraction is done on a tooth that isn’t visible or accessible easily. This might mean that the tooth hasn’t fully erupted or that broken pieces of it are still stuck inside the gum. In this case, a surgeon will make an incision in your gum to access the tooth. If the tooth is rather big, it is broken into smaller pieces before pulling it out. Next, forceps are used to loosen the teeth from the tissues, and it is gently pulled out. Depending on the nature of the incision, dissolvable stitches might be needed. The extraction is done under the effects of anaesthesia and hence will not hurt.
7 reasons for tooth extraction
Here are some of the most common reasons why tooth extraction becomes necessary.
- Tooth decay
Tooth decay leads to tooth extraction only in severe cases. With the formation of plaque and tartar, the enamel of a tooth might slowly decay. If caught early, this decay can be treated with a filling. If the decay has already infected the dental nerves, then root canal therapy can be done. But this is only if enough of the natural teeth are left to be saved. If not, tooth extraction is recommended. Here, the infected tooth is removed, and a dental bridge is fixed in its place.
- Impaction
Impaction is usually a condition concerning the wisdom tooth. Due to lack of space, the tooth grows inside the gum. It is stuck inside the gum or bone and can cause pain and swelling. Further, it hinders the growth and overall health of its adjacent tooth. In such a case, surgical extraction is done to remove the teeth.
- Overcrowding
While overcrowding might seem like a mere aesthetic issue, it is not so. Crowded and overlapping teeth are much more challenging to clean than we think. This means that it is easy for overcrowded teeth to fall prey to decay and infections. In such cases, a certain designated tooth (usually at the back) is removed to free up more space. This is especially done before wearing braces.
- Gum diseases
Gum diseases like gingivitis and periodontitis affects the gum and the bones surrounding the teeth. When the gums and bones are infected, it becomes difficult for the tooth to stay stable. Further, removing the tooth and treating the affected area is necessary. This will ensure that the infection doesn’t spread to adjacent teeth.
- Accident
Sometimes, certain physical accidents might leave you with a broken or damaged tooth. In such a case, depending on the extent of the trauma, your dentist may suggest fillings, root canal or complete tooth extraction. Extraction guarantees that no further infection will bother the tooth. Further, a dental bridge can be fixed in its place.
- Baby teeth removal
In many teenagers and adults, the milk or baby teeth might not have gone out at the appropriate age. This results in a lack of space for the permanent teeth stuck inside the gum. The baby teeth are extracted to avoid pain, and space is made for the permanent teeth.
- Risk of infection
This risk concerns patients of any immunity-compromising diseases or treatments. For example, the chances of even small decays turning into infections are higher in patients undergoing chemotherapy treatment. In such cases, tooth extraction is recommended.
Aftercare
Here are a few tips that might come in handy after your tooth extraction procedure.
- Take pain medications as prescribed by your dentist
- Do not chew on that side of the mouth
- Avoid hard and sticky food
- Consume cold liquids and soft food
- Avoid forceful gargling, rinsing and brushing
Conclusion
If you are experiencing any toothache or other dental trouble, get it checked by your dentist. In case the dentist notices severe infection and feels that the tooth cannot be saved, it is about time you get that tooth pulled out. A qualified dentist will be able to perform the extraction safely and with the least amount of hassle for you.
Having that troublemaker tooth out of your mouth will boost your dental hygiene. Plan ahead for your post-extraction rest with lots of ice creams and long naps.
