What is Tooth Extraction?

What are the Indications for Tooth Extraction?

• Severely decayed teeth
• Teeth crowding
• Impacted teeth
• Gum disease

How is a Tooth Extracted?

Anesthesia: Before the extraction, Dr. Razavi will use a local anesthetic to numb the area around the tooth. This will ensure that the patient feels no pain during the procedure.

Loosening the Tooth: The dentist will use a tool to loosen the tooth and gently rock it back and forth to loosen it from its socket.

Removal: The dentist uses forceps to remove the tooth from its socket. In some circumstances, your dentist/oral surgeon will make a small incision into the affected gums and may even remove surrounding bone or cut the tooth to extract it.

Closure: After removing the tooth, the dentist will place gauze in the socket to control bleeding and promote healing. The dentist may also suture the area if necessary.

What are the Risks Associated with Tooth Extraction?

Tooth extraction is a common dental procedure to treat decayed, infected, or impacted teeth, generally considered safe and effective. The formation of a blood clot in the extracted tooth socket is normal and promotes quick healing. However, a dry socket may occur if the blood clot doesn’t form or is dislodged, requiring prompt attention from the dentist. Other risks of tooth extraction include prolonged bleeding, infection symptoms like fever, chills, and swelling, and respiratory issues like coughing, chest pain, and shortness of breath. If these symptoms persist, it’s essential to contact your dentist immediately.

Care After Tooth Extraction

Pain Management: The patient may experience discomfort or pain after the procedure. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can be taken to manage the pain.

Bleeding: Some bleeding is normal after an extraction, but excessive bleeding should be reported to the dentist immediately.

Eating and Drinking: Soft foods and liquids should be consumed for the first few days after the extraction. Avoid using straws, as sucking can dislodge the blood clot and delay healing.

Oral Hygiene: Good oral hygiene is important after extraction to prevent infection. The patient should rinse their mouth with warm salt water and brush their teeth gently to promote healing.

Take a Rest: Avoid intense activity for the next 24 hours after the procedure. Instead, relax, ideally with a pillow to prop your head up when lying down.

Follow-up Appointments: The dentist may schedule a follow-up appointment to check on the healing process and ensure that everything is progressing as expected.

Extraction is a common dental procedure to remove a damaged, impacted, or painful tooth. The procedure is typically straightforward, and patients can expect to recover with proper aftercare fully. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort in your teeth, please schedule an appointment with our professional dentist in Philadelphia, to discuss your treatment options.