Tooth extraction treatment may be necessary if a patient has advanced structural decay or damage. Patients may also require this general dental solution to resolve overcrowding or to relieve impacted wisdom teeth. Before resorting to tooth extraction, Dr. Robert Gauthier will attempt to preserve the natural tooth with a dental filling, an inlay or only, or a root canal. Dr. Gauthier only performs a tooth extraction when necessary for patients in his Northborough, MA office.
Often referred to as ‘pulling teeth’, extractions are simple outpatient procedures. Typical tooth extractions are not painful because anesthetic and dental sedation is used. Dr. Gauthier will use local anesthesia to thoroughly numb the area. All you will feel is some slight pressure and tugging.
Do I Need a Tooth Extraction?
At our office, we’re committed to preserving natural tooth structure whenever possible. However, sometimes a tooth extraction is necessary for patients’ oral health. If a tooth is severely damaged or decayed, it may be best to remove it to avoid further harm to your mouth. Wisdom teeth are also often extracted because our mouths aren’t large enough for this extra set of teeth, that erupt in the late teenage years.
Another common reason we extract teeth is to assist with overcrowding and orthodontic treatment. When you have a smaller mouth and extremely overcrowded teeth, it’s necessary to remove teeth to have room for a healthy, even smile.
Wisdom Teeth Extraction
Wisdom teeth often emerge during the late teenage years through the early twenties. Wisdom teeth, also called the third molars, typically lack adequate space in the jaw to erupt correctly and are therefore removed to prevent them from becoming impacted or causing damage to the other teeth. There is often pain associated with the wisdom teeth emerging, and tooth extraction can alleviate that pain. We use anesthetic to numb the area before extracting wisdom teeth, so patients will feel no pain during the procedure.
What Is a Dry Socket?
After a tooth is extracted, a blood clot will form. This is necessary to stop bleeding and facilitate proper healing. Dry socket is a condition that sometimes develops after a tooth is extracted. This is when a clot has become dislodged and can lead to many problems.
To avoid dry sockets, we recommend that patients refrain from smoking, drinking through a straw, or vigorous rinsing for at least 24 hours after an extraction. These activities can dislodge the clot and lead to dry socket. Dry socket can be extremely painful and delay healing times. If you are experiencing dry socket or pain at the extraction site, contact our office as soon as possible.
The Tooth Extraction Procedure
Tooth extraction is a relatively simple procedure. First, the dentist will numb the area to minimize discomfort. After the area around the tooth is numb, your dentist will extract the tooth by gently rocking it back and forth using specialized tools.
The socket will be packed with gauze to aid in stopping the bleeding. In most cases a small amount of bleeding and swelling is normal. The gauze should remain in for at least 30 minutes to an hour. To promote proper healing, avoid smoking, rinsing, or drinking through a straw for at least 24 hours. These activities can dislodge the clot, delay healing, and lead to dry socket.
A cold cloth or ice bag may help with any pain or swelling. Pain medication will be prescribed by your dentist if needed to help with the discomfort. Over-the-counter pain medication may also be used to alleviate pain. It is essential to continue to brush and floss regularly to maintain oral hygiene.
Replacing Extracted Teeth
If a tooth is extracted due to severe decay or damage, Dr. Gauthier will advise that you replace it. Depending on the location and number of teeth pulled, he may recommend a dental bridge, partial denture, or dental implants. Dental implants are the most natural solution to missing teeth. Replacing your tooth with an implant will replace the missing root. This will prevent bone loss, a common problem with other dental restorations.
Implants may be used to secure crowns, bridges, or dentures. They are a permanent restoration that restores function and aesthetics to patients smiles. Securing restorations with implants also extend their lifespan, and make it easier to speak, chew, and fucntion normally.
Tooth Extraction FAQs
Do you have further questions about tooth extractions. Continue reading to find answers to common questions about tooth extraction treatment here:
Does tooth extraction treatment hurt?
Most patients are surprised at how little discomfort they experience during their tooth extraction or wisdom tooth removal. Your Apex dentist will give personalized recommendations for handling any discomfort after treatment. Most patients are able to return to their routines the next day and only need ibuprofen.
When is a tooth extraction necessary?
At Apex Dental we try to conservatively treat our patients with the goal of maintaining as most of their natural smile as possible. There are cases where a tooth extraction becomes necessary to restore the patient’s oral health. Impacted molars, overcrowding, or decay that has damaged most of the tooth structure may require a tooth extraction.
If I need a tooth extraction, can I replace my missing tooth?
Yes. Dr. Gauthier offers full-service dental implants from the comfort of our Northborough, MA dentist office. In most cases, Dr. Gauthier is able to perform all phases of the implant procedure and will coordinate with specialists on your behalf if necessary. Dental implants are the most natural and functional option for replacing missing teeth.
Revitalize Your Smile
Do you need your wisdom teeth removed? Are infected teeth impacting your smile? Call Dr. Gauthier at (508) 506-1691 for comprehensive dental treatment today.