Categories: Tooth Extraction

When Would a Dentist Recommend a Tooth Extraction?

Tooth extraction is typically used as a last resort when a tooth is too damaged to be repaired. Wisdom teeth are the exception to this practice because they are the only set of teeth that most people do not need. However, dentists often recommend extracting wisdom teeth even if they are healthy, and it is typically the first option explored when something goes wrong with a wisdom tooth.

 

Reasons for tooth extraction

Tooth extractions are often necessary dental procedures, especially when they affect surrounding teeth, gums, and bones. They may sound intimidating, but extractions are common and provide many benefits in keeping the oral cavity healthy. A variety of tooth-replacement options are available, including tooth-colored crowns that keep patients' smiles in line. With proper care and maintenance, tooth replacements can last up to a decade. We encourage all patients to read and understand the tooth extraction procedure before coming to their appointment.

 

There are multiple reasons a dentist might recommend a tooth extraction. Reasons include creating space in a patient's jaw, removing a tooth that is too damaged to be saved, and preventing a severe tooth infection from spreading to other parts of the body. Additionally, the dentist may need to remove the few teeth left on a dental arch so the patient can explore missing teeth solutions like dentures and implant-supported dentures.
 

Signs and Symptoms of a Compromised Tooth

Many patients are unaware that their tooth requires extraction until a dentist tells them. However, in most cases, certain signs and symptoms present themselves well before the need for extraction. It is important to recognize these signs to help avoid more complications.

 

Common signs and symptoms of a tooth requiring extraction:

  • A loose tooth
  • An impacted baby tooth
  • Difficulty or pain when chewing
  • Jaw pain, soreness, or stiffness
  • Spacing or overcrowding issue
  • Swollen gums or jaw
  • The tooth or gum tissue surrounding a tooth is infected or inflamed
     

Patients experiencing these symptoms should immediately contact their dental provider to schedule an examination. We can discuss an effective course of action and recommend alternative treatments for those unable to undergo an extraction.

 

How dentists perform a tooth extraction

There are two main types of dental extractions: simple and surgical. We perform a simple extraction when enough is left of the tooth to pull it out with forceps. A surgical extraction is performed when the tooth is stuck underneath the gums or bone tissues. The dentist will have to make an incision into the patient's gum tissues to reach the tooth, pull it out, and suture the area. Surgical extractions have a longer recovery period because an incision is made into the gum tissues.

 

Local anesthetics are administered during extractions so patients do not feel pain while the dentist works on their mouth. However, they may experience some pain and discomfort once the anesthetic starts to wear off. Therefore, dentists often provide their patients with prescription painkillers to help manage any pain experienced during recovery.
 

Life after tooth extraction

It can take up to two weeks to recover from an extraction. However, the first week is the most crucial period because the blood clot that forms on the extracted tooth's socket is most vulnerable at this time. In addition, the blood clot falling out of its socket leads to a painful condition known as dry socket, which lengthens the recovery period. Simple things that patients can do to help make their recovery smoother include:

  • Avoid eating, drinking, or talking for the first few hours after tooth extraction.
  • Stick to liquid and soft foods for the first week after the procedure.
  • Avoid sucking, such as drinking through straws, spitting, or smoking.
  • Avoid brushing and using oral hygiene products for the first two days after an extraction; rinse the mouth with a saltwater solution.
  • Use any painkillers or antibiotics prescribed as recommended by the dentist.
  • Avoid strenuous activities for the first two days after having a tooth extracted.
  • Aim to get as much rest as possible.
  • Do not touch or irritate the extraction site, as that can dislodge the blood clot in the socket.
     

Extractions protect your health

Do you need to have a tooth pulled? Our team has you covered. We may diagnose and recommend a tooth extraction after an initial consultation or examination. Then, we can help you get back on track to building and maintaining a healthy mouth and bright smile. Give us a call at (740) 546-5178 or stop by our Marietta clinic to set up an appointment. 

Please request an appointment here: https://www.mytotaldentistry.com or call McCarthy Dentistry at (740) 546-5178 for an appointment in our Marietta office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Tooth Extraction in Marietta, OH.

Recent Posts

When A Tooth Extraction Is Necessary

A tooth extraction might be necessary for multiple instances. The tooth comes out of the patient’s mouth because of an infection or other reasons. A dentist tries to keep the teeth intact as long as possible, but not every tooth can be saved. Keep reading to learn more about why you might need an extraction.Tooth…

What Will Happen After A Tooth Extraction?

A tooth extraction might be recommended when a tooth has been damaged to a point it cannot be repaired with any of the treatments currently available, or if it becomes infected and threatens other parts of the body.The thought of having to get a tooth extraction can be nerve-wracking for many people. In reality, tooth…

Reasons To Have Wisdom Teeth Removed While You Are Young

Dental professionals often recommend wisdom teeth removal between the ages of 16 and 19 to prevent concerns such as overcrowding, crooked teeth, oral infection, and general discomfort caused by the improper growth of wisdom teeth. This review closely examines why wisdom teeth removal is encouraged at a young age.Wisdom teeth removal is often necessary before…

Potential Issues When You Do Not Have Wisdom Teeth Removed

Getting your wisdom teeth removed can be a nerve-wracking experience. The recovery process alone, with the swollen cheeks, ice packs, and pain killers, is enough to make you feel that it is unnecessary despite what your dentist may say. However, wisdom teeth removal is often recommended as a means to prevent several painful illnesses. We…

Dr. McCarthy

Share
Published by
Dr. McCarthy

Recent Posts

Preventative Dental Care Visits With Your Dentist to Monitor Oral Health

Preventative dental care is an important necessity when it comes to taking care of your…

2 days ago

Preventative Dental Care: Specialized Treatments

Preventative dental care refers to all the ways you can maintain the health of your…

3 days ago

Preventative Dental Care – Picking the Right Toothbrush and Toothpaste

Preventative dental care involves keeping up with routine dental visits and recommendations, and it requires…

1 week ago

Preventive Dental Care – Proper Brushing

Many things go into good preventative dental care. One of the most important is brushing…

2 weeks ago

Preventative Dental Care: Oral Cancer Screening

Screening for oral cancer is an important part of preventative dental care. Unfortunately, oral cancer…

2 weeks ago

FAQs About Oral Appliance Treatment for Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a serious health condition that you should never ignore.

2 weeks ago