Tooth Extraction Guide: Why Are Teeth Removed And How Long Does It Take To Recover?
Dental infections are the most common form of an oral problem caused by bacteria that enter through natural openings in the teeth. They can lead to tooth loss, tooth decay, gum disease, and other serious ailments.
An infected tooth can be treated in different ways, like fillings and root canals. However, when you have severe damage to the teeth, infected tooth extraction is the ideal solution.
What is Tooth Extraction?
Extracting is the process of removing one or more teeth from your mouth. This can be done through different means such as pulling, cutting, and suction. Tooth extraction can also be used in emergencies when a child experiences pain and swells around the tooth.
The procedure varies depending on the method used, how many teeth were extracted, and the age.
Tooth extraction can be either simple or done surgically, depending on the visibility of the teeth. A simple extraction uses a local anesthetic to numb the area below the gum line and then use gentle traction on one side of the tooth while using an elevator and forceps to remove it. A surgical extraction usually involves general anesthesia, and the dentist uses a scalpel and cuts through bone and gums before removing the tooth.
When is a Tooth Extraction Necessary?
Although we only do dental removal as a last resort, there are times when extracting your teeth is necessary for your oral health.
- Tooth decay
Dental decay, also known as dental caries, occurs when saliva and food mix with plaque and bacteria on teeth. The acids in saliva can dissolve the minerals in tooth enamel and cause decay. It is the most common oral problem, and it causes tooth sensitivity, pain, and swelling.
The decay usually develops in stages, and in the early stages, the dentist may use teeth fillings or a root canal. But, if the infection spreads to the nerves and attacks the roots, then a tooth removal procedure may be an ideal treatment.
- Wisdom teeth
Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars located behind the second set of molars. They usually emerge in the teenage years and need to be extracted if they cause problems, like cysts or abscesses.
Many dentists recommend wisdom teeth extraction if the teeth are impacted and are causing pain and weakening the existing ones.
- Overcrowded teeth
Overcrowded teeth can occur when you have narrow jaws, forcing the teeth to grow on each other. This can make it difficult to clean the teeth properly, increasing the risk of decay and causing teeth alignment problems. The dentist can remove the excess teeth to make room and also prepare for teeth alignment treatment.
What Should You Expect During Tooth Extraction Procedure?
The extraction procedure is quick and easy, lasting between 30 to 60 minutes. But, the surgical extraction may last longer.
The dentist will first isolate the tooth and use a local anesthetic to numb the area before pulling. Once the tooth is completely removed, they will clean up the area and stitch the gums.
What Happens to Your Mouth After a Tooth Extraction?
The following are some of the things that happen to your mouth during an extraction:
- There is bleeding inside of your mouth; this will stop on its own (usually within 15-20 minutes)
- Blood clots form in the tissue around your teeth; these tend to dissolve on their own (within 24 hours)
- You might get sores in your gums
What are the Most Commonly Seen Side Effects of Tooth Extractions?
Extractions can cause pain and post-extraction complications. Many different side effects can occur after tooth extractions. For example, bleeding may occur following tooth extraction because of nerve damage.
What are the Teeth Extraction Aftercare Instructions?
You can use The following instructions to maintain your oral health after tooth extraction:
- Avoid hard foods such as bread and ice.
- Eat soft foods such as yogurt and mashed potatoes for breakfast and lunch. You can add boiling water to cereal to soften it up.
- Limit your use of alcohol during the healing process; it could cause bleeding and can delay healing.
- Try sleeping in an elevated position to promote blood flow and reduce swelling.
- Use cold therapy (ice packs) to reduce swelling on the gums.
- Avoid drinking beverages with a straw, as it can break the blood clot.
How Long Does Tooth Extraction Recovery Take?
A full mouth extraction recovery time varies depending on the type of tooth extraction and the reason for the extraction.
It takes about one week to recover from a simple tooth extraction. It takes several months for the gums and soft tissues to heal after wisdom teeth are removed.
Schedule an Appointment
Visit Holger Dental Group for more information about tooth extraction procedures and recovery.