Extractions
What to Expect from a Tooth Extraction Procedure
Every year, thousands of individuals undergo a tooth extraction procedure for various reasons. While the concept can seem alarming to some, getting a tooth pulled is a common occurrence in the dental world.
What are the main reasons that a patient might need to have a tooth removed? Moreover, what happens during this type of procedure? What is involved in the aftercare following a dental extraction? Specifically, the information here will address these important questions and this common dental procedure.
What Happens During a Tooth Extraction Procedure?
During a tooth extraction procedure, our efforts will ensure you are comfortable. Furthermore, numbing agents will ensure there is no pain. Some dental offices may also provide an oral medication to help a particularly nervous patient relax.
If the tooth is impacted, the dentist will carefully cut some of the gum tissue away from the tooth. Next, they will use a gentle rocking motion to gradually loosen the tooth. In addition, they will carefully pack the tooth with gauze to help stop the bleeding and promote proper healing.
Reasons for Needing a Tooth Extraction
Our permanent teeth are designed to last for our entire lifetime. However, this is not always the case. In fact, there are a number of different reasons why a patient might need to get a tooth pulled. Some of the most common reasons are explained further below.
In a patient with a smaller mouth, the teeth can become overcrowded and begin to overlap one another. This can create discomfort and may also be a source of embarrassment for the individual.
Additionally, this situation can lead to an increased risk of tooth decay. At times, pulling one or more teeth can allow for the remaining teeth to straighten, giving a nicer appearance to the smile and protecting the health of the mouth.
Teeth can become infected, which can lead to extreme pain and potential health hazards. If the root of the tooth has been damaged beyond repair by the existing infection, the dentist may recommend having the tooth pulled. In other cases, we’ll remove a tooth due to the threat of infection or existing periodontal disease.
When teeth crack due to accidents or trauma, the root can become severely damaged. For example, the tooth may need to be removed to prevent further issues from developing down the road.
Aftercare Following a Tooth Removal
Your dentist will provide you with careful aftercare instructions following tooth removal. A blood clot needs to form over the opening where the tooth used to be. Therefore, one of the most important aspects of healing is to avoid disturbing this blood clot. Your dentist will instruct you not to drink through a straw or smoke cigarettes for a specific time following the procedure to allow for proper healing to take place.
More About Laughlin Dental
At Laughlin Dental, we know your smile is important to you. In fact, we provide a wide variety of full-service general dentistry procedures, as well as specialty and emergency services.
The current and future health of your mouth is our primary concern. If you are in need of convenient dental services for the whole family, contact Laughlin Dental at 281-998-4916 for an appointment today.
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