Tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth from a patient’s mouth. Teeth are meant to last us a lifetime however sometimes they may need to be removed. One of the most common reasons for this is when tooth has too much damage that can be caused by decay. Another reason for extraction may be to restore a crowded mouth and prepare it for orthodontia. Also if a tooth can not release itself from the gum and remains inside the jawline a dentist can recommend tooth extraction in order to avoid problems in the rest of the mouth.
Infection is another cause for tooth removal in cases where it is to severe to be fixed with a root canal.
• People who suffered bad damage to their tooth that is beyond repair due to infection
• People with decaying tooth
• People with tooth that can’t break free from the gum and remain inside the jaw line
• People with overcrowded mouth meaning that the size of their teeth is too big compared to the size of their mouth
• People who need preparation for orthodontia
Depending on the patient and the condition of the tooth, local or general anesthesia may be administered. Once the area is numb or the patient is fully asleep, your doctor will cut through the gum and bone tissue, loosen the tooth by rocking it and then remove it by using forceps. Sometimes the tooth may need to be pulled strongly to break free. Or a hard to remove tooth may be broken into a few pieces first.
A gauze pad will be placed where the tooth was removed. Bleeding and mild pain is very normal. Depending on the patient, stitches may be needed. Self dissolving stitches are preferred but under some cases normal stitches may be used as well. These will be removed after a week from surgery. Ice packs help with swelling and pain. A liquid only or soft food diet may be administered for a day or two after the surgery but other than that normal life activities can be resumed almost instantly.