What are the reasons for pulling teeth?
Permanent teeth were meant to last a lifetime, but sometimes there are reasons that a tooth would need to be extracted. The most common reasons involve extreme damage from either trauma or decay.
Other reasons for a tooth extraction include:
- Crowded mouth -Tooth extraction may be necessary when a tooth cannot break through the gum because of overcrowding in the mouth.
- Alignment - Extractions may be done to improve the alignment of teeth.
- Infection - Extensive decay in a tooth can cause infection and pain requiring removal. Extraction may be needed to prevent the spread of infection.
- Periodontal (Gum) Disease - If periodontal disease is causing loosening of the teeth, it may be necessary to the pull the tooth or teeth
Dr. Yakobashvili or Dr. Datikashvili might also recommend extracting your wisdom teeth. Your wisdom teeth are the last teeth to come in, typically breaking through the gum line when you’re between the ages of 17-21.
Although this is a completely normal part of the natural process during young adulthood, wisdom teeth often push against other teeth, causing misalignments, overcrowding, and other problems.
In addition, because they’re at the back of your mouth, wisdom teeth are generally harder to brush and floss. Extracting your wisdom teeth significantly lowers your risk of other potential complications in the future.
Am I a candidate for a tooth extraction?
Tooth extractions are safe and generally well-tolerated, but like any surgical procedure, risks are involved. For example, harmful bacteria can enter your bloodstream at the extraction site, which may increase your risk of infection.
During your initial consultation, make sure to share your complete medical history with Dr. Yakobashvili or Dr. Datikashvili, including whether or not you take any prescription medications or supplements.
Do I need to prepare before a tooth extraction?
Before having a tooth pulled, you should let your dentist know your complete medical history, including if you have any of the following conditions:
Damaged or man-made heart valves
Congenital heart defect
Impaired immune system
Liver disease (cirrhosis)
Artificial joint, such as a hip replacement
History of bacterial endocarditis
These medical conditions won’t necessarily disqualify you from undergoing an extraction, but they can increase complication risks. After gathering all of your health information, Dr. Yakobashvili, Dr. Datikashvili, and the team develop an extraction plan based on your individual needs.
What can I expect with tooth extraction?
Before the tooth is extracted, a local anesthetic will be used. It’s injected into the area of the tooth needing extraction in order to numb it and allow for a pain-free extraction. An impacted tooth may require removal of some gum and bone tissue to reveal the tooth. Afterward, the tooth is grabbed with forceps and gently rocked back and forth to loosen it before extraction. As the tooth loosens away from the jaw bone and periodontal ligaments, it will it be extracted. Some teeth are difficult to extract and may have to be removed in pieces. After any extraction, the site will be packed with gauze to stop any bleeding. You will be given instructions to follow after the procedure to ensure proper healing.
Do I need to prepare before a tooth extraction?
Before having a tooth pulled, you should let Dr. Yakobashvili know your complete medical history, the medications and supplements you take, and if you have any of the following conditions:
- Damaged or man-made heart valves
- Congenital heart defect
- Impaired immune system
- Liver disease (cirrhosis)
- Artificial joint, such as a hip replacement
- History of bacterial endocarditis
What can I expect with tooth extraction?
Before the tooth is extracted, a local anesthetic will be used. It’s injected into the area of the tooth needing extraction to numb it and allow for a pain-free extraction. An impacted tooth may require the removal of some gum and bone tissue to reveal the tooth. Afterward, the tooth is grabbed with forceps and gently rocked back and forth to loosen it before extraction.
As the tooth loosens away from the jawbone and periodontal ligaments, it will be extracted. Some teeth are difficult to extract and may have to be removed in pieces. After any extraction, the site will be packed with gauze to stop any bleeding. You will be given instructions to follow after the procedure to ensure proper healing.
What is the recovery process like following an extraction?
Following your extraction, it’s perfectly normal to experience some pain, swelling, and general discomfort around the socket of your tooth. If possible, your dentist may recommend taking a day or two off of work or school to allow plenty of time for healing.
In the first few days following treatment, make sure to take your medications as prescribed and avoid rinsing your mouth or spitting forcefully. In addition, you should limit any strenuous physical activity and apply an ice pack to your jaw for 10 minutes at a time to prevent further inflammation and swelling.
If you smoke cigarettes or use chewing tobacco, stop for at least a week, as both of these habits can increase your risk of developing an infection. You should also avoid eating tough or crunchy foods like chips and crackers. Instead, stick to soft items like applesauce, yogurt, or soup.
It’s also important to practice good oral hygiene. Continue to brush, floss, and use mouthwash like you normally would, just be careful to avoid the extraction site. Within a week, you should be feeling back to normal.
Who should I contact if I experience any complications during my recovery?
Although rare, complications happen from time-to-time. If it’s been more than four hours after your extraction, and your mouth is still bleeding, or you’re experiencing severe pain, contact your dentist right away. Other symptoms that require immediate medical care include:
Fever
Chills
Nausea
Vomiting
Shortness of breath
Chest pain
You should also contact your dentist if there is redness, excessive discharge, or swelling around the extraction site.
If you’re suffering from a toothache or suspect you may need an extraction for any other reason, make an appointment at Glad Dental P.C. by calling the office or clicking the online booking tool today.
