Do you have an impacted tooth? Maybe you have tooth damage because of gum or tooth infection.
Tooth extraction is a routine general dental service that we can perform in just one visit to our dentist’s office. Dr. Ben Ahlbrecht performs tooth extractions in Indianapolis, IN at North Meridian Dental Excellence. His dental staff personalizes care to fit every patient’s needs. Learn about the types of tooth extractions performed in-office as well as the dental problems that extraction treats:
When Do I Need a Tooth Extraction?
One common reason for tooth extraction is severe tooth decay. When left untreated, a cavity can spread to the tooth’s inner layers, causing infection and pain. In cases where the decay is too extensive for a filling or crown to fix, tooth extraction may be the best course of action. Removing the decayed tooth can prevent the infection from spreading to other teeth and tissues in the mouth.
Another reason for a tooth extraction is advanced gum disease. When gum disease progresses to a severe stage, it can lead to tooth loss. In some cases, the affected teeth may need to be extracted to prevent the spread of infection and to protect the overall health of the mouth. By removing the infected teeth, the dentist can help restore the health of the gums and prevent further damage.
Overcrowding is another common reason for tooth extraction. When there is insufficient space in the mouth for all teeth to properly align, overcrowding can occur. This can lead to crooked or misaligned teeth, which can affect the bite and the overall alignment of the teeth. In cases where overcrowding is causing issues with the alignment of the teeth, a tooth extraction may be necessary to create more space in the mouth and allow the remaining teeth to move into the proper position.
Impacted teeth are another reason for a tooth extraction. An impacted tooth cannot fully emerge through the gum line due to obstacles such as other teeth or bone. This can cause pain, infection, and damage to the surrounding teeth. In cases where an impacted tooth is causing issues, a tooth extraction may be needed to remove the impacted tooth and prevent further complications.
Sometimes, a tooth extraction may be needed as part of orthodontic treatment. When a patient is undergoing orthodontic treatment, we may need to remove a tooth to create space for the teeth to align properly. By removing a tooth, the orthodontist can help achieve the desired alignment of the teeth and improve the overall results of the treatment.
The Tooth Extraction Procedure
There are two different types of tooth extractions. The procedure depends on which one you need.
Simple Tooth Extractions
In a simple extraction, the dentist begins by numbing the area around the tooth with a local anesthetic to ensure the patient feels no pain during the procedure. An elevator dental instrument loosens the tooth in its socket, making it easier to remove. Once we loosen the tooth sufficiently, the dentist uses forceps to grasp it and gently rock it back and forth until it is free from the gum tissue and bone. The extraction site is then cleaned, and gauze is placed over the area to help control bleeding.
Simple extractions are typically quick and relatively painless, with most patients experiencing little to no discomfort during the procedure. After the tooth is removed, the dentist will provide post-operative instructions on how to care for the extraction site and manage any discomfort that may arise. In most cases, simple extractions heal quickly and without complication, allowing the patient to resume normal activities within a day or two.
Complex Tooth Extractions
On the other hand, complex extractions involve procedures that may require the dentist to make an incision in the gum tissue or remove bone to access the tooth. This type of extraction is often necessary when you have an impacted tooth. This means it cannot fully emerge from the gum line or has broken off at the gum line, and we cannot easily remove it with forceps. In these cases, the dentist may need to section the tooth into smaller pieces or perform a surgical extraction to remove it entirely.
We usually perform complex extractions under a local anesthetic. Sometimes, we also use sedation for patients who are particularly anxious or have a low pain tolerance. The dentist will carefully assess the tooth and surrounding tissues before determining the best approach for extraction. Sometimes, you may need a referral to an oral surgeon to ensure the tooth is removed safely and effectively.
After a complex extraction, the dentist will provide detailed post-operative instructions on how to care for the extraction site and manage pain and swelling. The dentist may prescribe pain medication or antibiotics to prevent infection and promote healing. It is important to follow these instructions closely to minimize the risk of complications and ensure a successful recovery.
Tooth Extraction FAQs
How long should I rest after tooth extraction?
We recommend you set aside at least one to two days to rest after a tooth extraction. It is normal for patients to be drowsy the day following the procedure so we advise you plan to rest.
What should you not do after tooth extraction?
After a tooth extraction, patients should stay hydrated and ice any swelling. We also recommend that patients stick to a soft diet for the days following the procedure and avoid chewing on the area where the tooth was extracted.
How can I make my tooth extraction heal faster?
Patients can speed up their recovery after a tooth extraction by diligently keeping their gauze in place. Rest is very important after an extraction, so it is important to set aside time to rest and recover. Patients should also avoid smoking and drinking through a straw to avoid a dry socket.
Schedule a Dental Exam Today
Call North Meridian Dental Care for advanced dental care today at 317.204.7134. You may also request a consultation with one of our dental specialists on our website.
