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The complete removal of a tooth is called an extraction. The situation presents when decay has set in or a tooth has become abscessed due to gum disease or a root canal treatment is unsuccessful. Many times the need for extraction is felt in orthodontic treatment, including overcrowding. The denture preparation is also on of the causes when tooth pulling is resorted to. The extraction procedure is performed by either an experienced dentist or an oral surgeon. In the first 24 hours after an extraction you can expect some discomfort and swelling, and may experience some bleed. During the next week or two, the wound will heal.
A decision to pull a tooth is taken by the dentist after he has done the dental examination. The dentist generally will collect the patient’s medical and dental history and take an x-ray. The x-ray helps the dentist to determine the best way to extract the tooth. In some cases, dentists may prescribe antibiotics for the patient to take before the procedure. Patients may also need to prepare for anesthesia that may be used, such as by not eating several hours before the procedure and arranging for a ride home.
A routine (non surgical) extraction is simple to perform. It can usually be performed by a general dentist using only local anesthesia. Surgical extractions are more complicated than simple extractions. It can be an impacted tooth which could be a soft tissue impaction, bony or partial bony impaction. Teeth pulling like that of impacted wisdom teeth are usually performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon using stronger anesthesia (e.g., conscious sedation, general anesthesia). When an extraction is performed, it is important to put something in the place of the missing tooth or teeth. Leaving the space open may cause the teeth to shift and therefore cause further, unnecessary complications. An extracted tooth may be replaced by a temporary or permanent bridge, an implant, or a partial or complete denture.
Precautions after the extraction
In order to prevent the blood clot becoming infected or dislodged after an extraction, good home care needs to be taken. Dry socket is more problematic. Healing cannot take place without the formation of a blood clot. Staying of blood clot in place actually aids faster healing. Do not rinse your mouth on the day of the extraction. Gentle rinsing can begin the day after the extraction. A regimen of ‘no smoking’ to be adopted for a few days, as otherwise it may inhibit the healing process. The diet should be restricted to soft foods for two weeks after any dental extraction. The dentist will also encourage the patient to use hot salty water mouthwashes the day after the tooth was extracted (one teaspoon of salt to a small tumbler of hot water). It is quite normal to experience some swelling to the face after a tooth extraction and an ice pack may help to reduce this. Take medicines as may be prescribed by the dentist. Over-the-counter pain medications or painkillers can also be used for temporary pain relief. Do not take overdose on these generic drugs: Aspirin, or Ibuprofen, or Ketoprofen, or Naproxen Sodium.
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