Tooth extractions are routine dental procedures used to remove decayed, damaged or otherwise problematic teeth.
Dentists usually make every effort to preserve natural teeth, although sometimes an extraction is necessary.
Although the procedure is performed in a dentist’s office, it is considered surgery. Depending on which teeth are removed, they may be replaced with a dental implant or another oral prosthetic.
Tooth
Extractions
Do I need a tooth extraction?
Only your dentist can tell you if you need a tooth extraction. However,
you may be a candidate for the procedure if one or more of your
teeth are decayed so severely that a filling or other restoration is not
a possibility for treatment.
What should I expect during my tooth extraction appointment?
If you and our dentists decide to extract one or more
teeth, you will be scheduled to return for oral surgery
at a later date. You will be given a local anesthetic to
prevent pain during the procedure, and you may be
prescribed medications to help manage pain in the
hours following your extraction. Depending on the
nature of your extraction and other factors, such as
whether your teeth are impacted, you may also be
sedated during your procedure.
What type of post-treatment care will I need to follow?
Post-operative care following a tooth extraction is
essential for healing and preventing complications.
You will be instructed to avoid certain foods and also
keep the surgical site clean at all times. If you are
prescribed an antibiotic, it is important that you complete
the course of treatment to prevent infection. Finally,
you may be advised to avoid smoking or drinking through a
straw, as doing so may delay the healing process and
cause a condition known as ‘dry socket.’