Tooth Extractions...

 

THERE ARE TWO TYPES OF EXTRACTIONS

 

Simple Extractions

can usually be done using just an injection (a local anesthetic). Most simple extractions do not cause much discomfort after the procedure. You may take an over the-counter non steroidal anti-inflammatory drug [NSAID] such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin and other brand names) for several days. You may not need any pain medicine at all.

 

 

 

Surgical Extractions

are commonly done with injections (local anesthesia). You can also have conscious sedation or deep sedation. The level of discomfort and how long it lasts will depend on the difficulty of the extraction. Your dentist may prescribe pain medicine for a few days and then suggest an NSAID. Most pain disappears after a couple of days.

 

 

WISDOM TEETH

 

Your last molars, called the third molars or wisdom teeth, typically begin to come

in during the late teens or early twenties. When they don’t have room to grow in

properly, they are considered impacted. This can cause serious problems

such as infection, decay to neighboring teeth as well as gum disease.

 

 

DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT

To determine if extracting wisdom is right for your situation, we’ll do a thorough examination, which typically includes x-rays. It’s often better to remove wisdom teeth early, while their roots are still small, even before the teeth have come in through the gums. This allows for easier removal, fewer complications, and faster healing. If you need all four wisdom teeth removed, they are usually taken out at the same time.



DELAYING TREATMENT

Delaying treatment is a risky alternative because the problem will only get worse leading to pain and possibly infection. If the tooth is decayed, the decay will continue to advance as well, and allow bacteria to infect the nerve and jawbone. Delaying treatment also can let infection spread to other teeth, your jaw, and the rest of your body. In some cases, your life can be threatened by infections in the jaw.



THINGS TO AVOID AFTER YOUR EXTRACTION

Avoid smoking, spitting, or drinking with a straw for the first 24 hours after surgery. These activities tend to dislodge the blood clot which causes additional bleeding and increased pain.


Do not apply heat to the face during the first 24 hours. This will increase swelling.


Avoid strenuous physical activity for 24 hours. This includes any activity in which one becomes winded as this may cause a renewal of bleeding.

 

 

WHEN IS AN EXTRACTION NECESSARY

  • Teeth are fractured below the gum-line.
  • Severe tooth decay or advanced periodontal disease.
  • Primary teeth are too crowded or not falling out.
  • Wisdom teeth compromise the health of your mouth or remaining teeth.

 

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