When Should You Consider Tooth Extraction?

You can undergo tooth extraction if you have exhausted all other forms of dental treatment. You should consider the procedure if you have a severely infected tooth, tooth decay, or an overcrowded mouth. Dr. Alicia Schraner Yonkers is an experienced and qualified dentist who can offer you a tooth extraction treatment to alleviate pain.

Reasons why you might need the procedure  

You might need a tooth extraction procedure to improve the general and aesthetic appearance of your mouth. However, in other instances, you need the procedure to stop a dental disease progression or infection to healthier teeth. The following are common reasons for the procedure:

• Overcrowded mouth
• Decayed or infected teeth
• Advanced gum disease
• To make room for another dental treatment procedure like braces

What to expect from the procedure

Before the procedure can begin, your dentist will give you the details. During the day of the procedure, your dentist will use a local or general anesthetic depending on your case. Your specialist will ensure that you are in maximum comfort during the procedure.

Using forceps, your dentist will grab the affected tooth. They will wiggle it to loosen it from your jawbone. Keep in mind that your infected tooth can come out in one or many pieces. It all depends on the state of your tooth.

The next step your specialist will take is to pack a gauze pad into the treated area to stop the bleeding. Afterward, your specialist will stitch the treated area with stitches that can dissolve after a few days. After the stitches and your anesthetic has worn out, you can go home.

Tooth extraction for one tooth can take around 30 minutes to complete. If your specialist is removing more than one tooth, expect to spend more time in the dentist’s office.

Recovery

Successful recovery from a tooth extraction procedure requires you to put in the effort of taking care of your mouth. Since it is a wound, you must do your best to avoid the onset of an infection. You can use the following tips:

• Keep your mouth clean by brushing twice a day
• Change your gauze pad regularly
• Avoid smoking to promote quick healing
• Eat soft foods
• Take pain medication as prescribed
• Get enough rest

To reduce swelling at home, use ice packs on the treated area. When you lay down, ensure to prop your head up. You can reduce pressure and pain in the treated area, by elevating your head. When you sleep, sleep at an angle to minimize swelling that slows down your healing.

Risks and complications

If you take good care of your mouth after the procedure, you will experience minimal or no complications. However, be on the lookout for a discharge on the extraction site. If you become sick, visit your dentist for treatment and a checkup.

If you have advanced gum disease or a severe tooth infection, visit Yonkers Dental Arts for evaluation and treatment. The friendly and experienced dentists and staff can offer personalized treatment depending on your aesthetic goals. Call or book an appointment online today.