The expression “like pulling teeth” has been thrown around often regarding something awful or difficult. Just the thought of it is enough to make people shutter or wince. The action portrayed in movies and animations has even kept those that need to visit the dentist at home. Today, we want to put to rest the unsettlingly overblown illustrations of a tooth extraction and give you some peace of mind about the procedure.
Reasons You Might Need a Tooth Extraction Someday
We’ve all seen the portrayal of a dentist pulling teeth and wildly enjoying it. It is overdone and frankly, insulting. In reality, most dentists truly don’t look forward to the procedure, but deem it necessary only for certain reasons:
- Crowding – Sometimes teeth can grow behind an already established row or your teeth may be larger than your gums can give residence to. If you are looking to get your teeth aligned, dentists will sometimes pull a tooth or two to prepare for that procedure.
- Damage or Decay – This is the most common reason for tooth extraction that we see today. A lot of times dentists can repair it, but when that’s not possible, it’s best to get a damaged tooth out. If you’ve ever heard the term “dead tooth”, you might know what horrors come from having one.
- Gum Disease – Infected bones and tissues that support a tooth’s structure can cause loosening of the tooth. At that point, it is best to just get the tooth extracted.
- Infection – When the center of the tooth gets bacteria in it from damage and decay, infection comes next. Root canals are common for correction, but if the infection proves to be severe beyond antibiotics, extraction can help stop the spread.
Before the Tooth Extraction
If you are prone to risk of infection, you might need to take antibiotics before and after the procedure. Your dentist should also be aware of your complete medical history, supplements, and medications you are on, any heart defects or issues, immune deficiencies, artificial joints or replacements, and bacterial endocarditis. Plan to take the day off of work.
What to Expect
This procedure is usually a very safe one. First, your comfort is of the utmost importance. You will be numbed or given a sleep sedative to help you avoid feeling any pain. Our dentists will make sure you are fully comfortable before they do anything that will cause discomfort.
At Miami Valley Smiles in Mason, Ohio, we’re dedicated to helping you achieve and maintain a healthy, beautiful smile. If it’s been a while since your last dental check-up, or if you’re due for a cleaning, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with us. Your oral health is our top priority, and we’re here to provide you with the best care possible. For more information or to book an appointment, contact us directly.
If your tooth is impacted, the dentist will need to cut away gum and bone tissue. Then they will grasp the tooth carefully and wiggle to loosen it. Sometimes, if the tooth is really difficult, it will need to be removed in pieces. Once the tooth is out, a blood clot will form in the socket, which will need a gauze pad on it for a bit. Stitches will also sometimes need to be used to close gum edges around the socket.
After the Tooth Extraction
Healing time is typically 1-2 weeks. You will have some discomfort, but if you follow these rules, your time will go much easier and faster!
- Apply cold to the area to avoid swelling.
- Take the painkillers prescribed.
- Relax for the next 24 hours and take it easy for the next couple of days.
- Don’t spit or rinse forcefully for the next 24 hours to avoid unsetting the clot.
- Don’t drink through a straw for the next 24 hours
- Don’t smoke throughout the healing time.
- Eat softer foods like pudding, applesauce, and soup on the day of the extraction. Little by little, reintroduce solid foods back in.
- After 24 hours, rinse your mouth with salt water.
- Prop your head while lying down to avoid prolonged bleeding.
- Avoid brushing or flossing at the extraction site, but make sure you continue to take care of your oral health to prevent infection.
You should not expect to have severe pain or bleeding after 4 hours. If you do or have any other symptoms that are out of the ordinary, call your dentist immediately. In time, your teeth may shift a little. Your dentist may suggest a bridge, denture, or implant at the site of extraction to help with the gap.
Bottom Line
We often must go through some discomforts to get to a better place. It is true with our health and beyond. If you have any questions about oral surgery or would like to schedule an appointment with your Mason dentist, Dr. Lance at Miami Valley Smiles, give us a call today at (513) 398-0038 or request an appointment online below! We look forward to smiling with you.
