Tooth Extraction Preparation, Treatment Process, and Healing

Tooth extraction may seem like a painful and worrying procedure, but it can help you feel better. Your Westfield tooth extractions specialists can help you have peace of mind when removal is the only option. Visiting your dentist early enough will help you prevent further complications with your teeth. Learn more about tooth extractions to get you prepared for the upcoming process.

When to go for a tooth extraction

Generally, people encounter tooth problems due to poor oral care. If you experience the following problems, it would be best to seek medical advice from a dentist.

·         Tooth decay

·         Tooth infection

·         Tooth injury and trauma

·         Gum disease

·         Crowded teeth

·         Wisdom teeth

Ensure you visit your dentist once you identify any of the above signs. Your dentist can suggest teeth extraction depending on your condition. However, the dentist can discuss the available treatment options to help you understand and get prepared.

Tooth extraction preparation

When you decide to go for a tooth extraction, the dentist will analyze your dental history and other medical conditions and be sure that you do not have underlying health issues like allergies and other conditions that could cause complications during the tooth extraction.

The dentist will do an X-ray on the affected area to understand your teeth shape and position. He/she will also estimate any challenges that might occur during the procedure. Where necessary, the dentist can refer you to an oral surgeon.

 The procedure sounds traumatizing, but you need to understand that you will be under a local anesthetic, and you will not feel pain because the area will be numbed. Remember, if you drove yourself to your dentist, you should have a ride after the tooth extraction because you may not drive, and it is also not safe. 

Tooth extraction process 

You will get injected with a local anesthetic to numb the affected area to keep off pain during the procedure. You may need a strong anesthetic if you have more than one tooth to be removed.

The dentist will then use an elevator tool to loosen the tooth and remove it using dental forceps. Also, your dentist may suggest a surgical tooth extraction if the tooth is broken. The dentist makes a small cut in the gum to extract the broken tooth. Some dentists cut the tooth twice before extracting it. 

Tooth healing after extraction

People heal differently after a tooth extraction. Some take a few days while others go for a couple of weeks. After the procedure, the dentist will place a gauze piece at the affected area for about 40 minutes to limit bleeding. If the bleeding prolongs, ensure you contact your dentist immediately since it could be a sign of a more serious problem. 

It would be best if you kept the affected area clean to prevent infection. In this case, ensure to follow your dentist’s guidelines fully. Avoid smoking for the next 24 hours after the procedure, keep rinsing your mouth, and brush your teeth next to the extraction area. Also, take the painkillers prescribed by your dentist and limit your chores for the next 24 hours. 

After your healing, you can go back to your regular diet but ensure you get in touch with your dentist for a checkup.