Everyone would like to keep a mouth full of natural teeth. However, due to some medical reasons, tooth extraction is necessary. For example, dentists may recommend an extraction if the tooth is causing pain and cannot be saved. If a dentist recommends tooth removal, there are several steps and post-care.
What are the Reasons for Tooth Extraction?
As noted above, everyone wants to maintain their teeth for the rest of their lives. Sometimes this is not possible. There are some significant reasons why a dentist will recommend a tooth extraction. The main reasons for tooth removal include:
- Excessive gum disease
- Tooth decay
- Teeth overcrowding
- Irreparable damage after accidents
- Impacted teeth
If a dentist detects any of the above problems, there’s a higher chance they will recommend a tooth extraction. It might come as an unexpected recommendation, but extraction is sometimes the only way to keep your mouth happy and painless.
How to Prepare Your Child for Tooth Removal?
Tooth extractions don’t need to be scary. Knowing what will happen ahead of time eases anxiety and helps patients understand what to do and expect. That’s why you need to prepare your child in advance. Remember, the earlier your child comes into terms with tooth extraction, the better.
It’s normal for kids to show emotions and anger when they find themselves in unfamiliar situations. Nevertheless, it’s your responsibility to explain what is happening in advance. Here are some tips you can consider to help your kids remain calm.
- Focus on the positive aspects of extraction
- Answer all the questions about tooth extraction
- Bring your kid’s comfort objects
- Make the day as relaxing as possible
Dentists understand that extraction is always scary to kids. That’s why they take every precaution to assure them of their emotional and physical comfort. As prior tooth extraction patients can attest, this process is painless and quick.
What are the Common Steps for Tooth Extraction?
The extraction procedure might require a simple extraction or sometimes a surgical approach. However, in any process, the steps are similar.
1. Tooth Numbing
There’s an expectation that tooth removal is painful. However, the procedure is painless and seamless with modern tooth-numbing options. First, oral surgeons will inject a local anesthetic to numb the area where the tooth will be removed to minimize or eliminate possible pain.
In some instances, your dentist may use a potent anesthetic. This will prevent any pain throughout the body. As a result, you (or your child) will sleep through the extraction procedure. However, a strong injection is only used when an invasive extraction is required. Always communicate with your Spokane, WA, dentist to determine the best anesthetic option.
2. Tooth Extraction
In a tooth extraction process, there are two approaches involved. In the first approach, dentists can see the damaged tooth. It will be easier to extract the infected tooth discomfort-free using simple tools. In this procedure, the tooth will be out before you know it. Your dentist will use forceps to seamlessly remove infected, damaged, or decayed teeth in a flash.
Sometimes the painful tooth can be under the gumline. The dentist will use a precision incision to remove it. Removing teeth under the gumline as a whole is sometimes complex. In this case, your dentist will split the tooth into several pieces for easier removal.
3. Space Closing
After extraction, there’s a space where the tooth used to be. Dentists cannot leave it open as it can be a breeding site for bacteria leading to gum infection. Therefore, your dental surgeon will remove infected tissues and loose bones. He will also smoothen the sharp edges of the jawbone.
The dentist will compress the socket to return it to its original size when closing the space. Dentists will also apply pressure with gauze to minimize bleeding around the surgical area. Also, if the extraction is surgical, your dentist will stitch up the removal site to prevent infection and bleeding.
What to Do After Tooth Extraction
After extraction and closing of space, the next step is recovery. Here, the aim is to reduce the risk of infection, minimize discomfort, and speed the recovery process. Although complete recovery will take a few days, it’s necessary to control bleeding after extraction. Parents can also use an ice pack if there’s swelling on the face.
While recovering at home, take these essential precautions to speed the recovery process;
- Take painkillers as prescribed
- Limit mouth/teeth activity for a day or two
- Change the gauze regularly
- Avoid rinsing to prevent dislodging of the clot
- Avoid drinking from the straw for one day
- Eat soft foods such as soup for the first few days
- Stay away from the surgical site when brushing and flossing
When to Contact Your Dentist
On the first day of recovery, you should expect residual bleeding and swelling. Also, your child will report some pain, especially after the anesthesia wears off. However, if the pain becomes severe a day after tooth removal, you should contact your dentist. Also, contact your Spokane Valley, WA, dentist if you (or your child) experience any of the following:
- Excessive discharge from the surgical area
- Signs of infections such as chills and fever
- Severe nausea or vomiting
- Shortness of breath, chest pain, or coughing
Always Work with a Reliable and Professional Dentist for Tooth Extraction
Tooth extraction can help you get away from severe dental issues such as gum disease, impacted teeth, and other dental problems. If he has been diagnosed with any of the tooth problems discussed above, it’s time you scheduled a tooth extraction appointment with a reliable and professional dentist in Spokane Valley, WA.
At Summit Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, you can expect a painless extraction procedure to restore your smile. Dr. López works with experienced staff members focused on providing our patients with a stress-free dental procedure.
Ready for a tooth removal? Summit Family and Cosmetic Dentistry is prepared to help you through it with the latest technology. Schedule your evaluation today for a painless extraction procedure.