Everything You Need to Know About Tooth Extractions

Despite your best efforts in maintaining good oral health and dental hygiene, there may come a time in your life when your dentist will recommend a tooth extraction is your only option. If your dentist has recommended tooth removal, usually that means that there is no other way to save your tooth. The only way to prevent future oral health issues is to completely remove it. Tooth Removal in 76210 may be necessary due to crowding, infections, and excessive tooth decay.

Why is a Tooth Extraction Necessary?

When Should I Get a Tooth Extraction? 

Tooth extraction may be recommended by your dentist if there is no other way to save your tooth. Essentially, it is damaged beyond repair. In some cases, impacted wisdom teeth erupt at an angle which can cause discomfort, overcrowding, damage to other teeth, and tooth decay. 

How a Tooth Extraction is Completed 

A tooth extraction can be simple, but there is still a chance you can have a very complex case. It all depends on whether the tooth is impacted or visible.

A Simple Tooth Extraction

For a simple extraction, you will be under local anesthetic. This numbs the area around the tooth, so you will just feel a bit of pressure but no pain during the procedure. 

A Surgical Tooth Extraction

For a surgical extraction, you will typically receive a combination of IV sedation and local anesthetic to help you feel relaxed. The oral surgeon will then cut into your gum, making a small incision. 

How to Prepare for a Tooth Extraction 

If you have the flu prior to your appointment, you should inform your dentist that you may need to reschedule. You should also avoid smoking before and after. It is important that you organize your meals, free your schedule for two to four days, and schedule a lift home if you are receiving any form of sedation. 

Before any dental work is done, your dentist will ask you about both your dental and medical history. It is important that you tell them about any of your existing medical conditions, including allergies and recent operations. In addition, also tell your dentist if you are currently taking any medications, such as an inhaler, a contraceptive pill, or over-the-counter medicines.

It is also important to take note that you should inform your dentist if you suffer from any conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, artificial joints, or an impaired immune system.

What to Do After an Extraction  

After the extraction, your dentist will provide you with detailed instructions on what to expect and what to do after having your tooth extracted. They will also give you prescribed medications. 

Post Tooth Extraction Helpful Recovery Tips

• Get plenty of rest 
• If possible, keep your head elevated a bit while sleeping
• Apply an ice pack on your cheeks as it is instructed to help with the swelling
• Stick to soft and cool foods for the first couple of days
• Avoid alcohol or any alcoholic and acidic substance
• You must avoid all strenuous activities and sports for faster recovery
• Avoid spitting, forceful rinsing, and drinking through a straw for at least the first 24 hours to allow a blood clot to form on the extraction site 
• Avoid smoking 

If Complications Happen

If you experience severe pain and discomfort, prolonged bleeding and swelling, and high temperature after the procedure, you should contact your dentist or oral surgeon immediately.

A common complication that can occur after a tooth extraction is when a blood clot does not form around the site or area where the tooth has been extracted. This phenomenon is known as a dry socket. This usually happens two to four days after the tooth extraction procedure and may result in extreme and excruciating pain.

It is highly recommended for you to return to your oral surgeon or dentist immediately. They will be able to treat the dry socket and might also prescribe antibiotics to prevent infection.

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Do You Need Tooth Removal in 76210?

It is essential to understand that tooth extractions are and can be a necessary procedure. Though in most cases, your dentist will only extract a tooth if there is no other option available. If you are nervous about tooth extraction, your dentist is your best resource. Call us or fill out our online contact form to schedule your appointment. Having your tooth extracted is a dreaded task for many, but we can assure you that we’ll make your procedure as easy and relaxing as possible. Contact Texas Oral Surgery Group today to get started.