What To Know When Getting a Tooth Extraction

Extraction Palos Verdes Estates, CA

It may be frightening and nerve-wracking to be faced with the prospect of tooth extraction. Read on to learn more about this procedure. Unknown to many, tooth extraction is a common dental procedure, and knowing the process involved can help ease one's fear.

The need for tooth extraction

A filling, crown, or other dental treatment is typically used to restore teeth that have been fractured or damaged. However, if the damage is too severe to be repaired, a dentist may suggest extracting the tooth. Other reasons for a tooth extraction include:

  • Decay or infection that has affected the tooth's core and roots
  • Injury or trauma
  • Overcrowding
  • Preliminary procedure for orthodontic treatment
  • Baby teeth that fail to come out when due
  • Problems with wisdom teeth

Preparing for a tooth extraction

Before tooth extraction, the dentist will go over the patient's medical and dental history and take the necessary x-rays. The x-ray will show the length, form, and location of the tooth and surrounding bone. The dentist may use this information to decide the tooth extraction method, which can be either simple or surgical.

The dentist will administer a local anesthetic to numb the tooth's region before proceeding with the extraction. The dentist may also use intravenous (IV) anesthesia, which may vary from conscious sedation to general anesthetic, during a more complex extraction, known as a surgical tooth extraction. In this situation, patients need to make arrangements for transport home after the operation and have someone watch them until the effects of the anesthetic have worn off.

The tooth extraction process

A simple extraction is done when the tooth is above the gum and visible. The dentist will numb the tooth and gum tissue and loosen it using an elevator before extracting it with dental forceps.

A surgical extraction is a more complicated procedure for removing a tooth that breaks at the gum line or has not yet erupted. The dental professional will make a tiny incision on the gum and remove the underlying tooth during a surgical extraction.

Following the extraction

After tooth extraction, an essential thing to remember is to keep the area clean and free of infection. Following the treatment, the dentist will provide specific aftercare recommendations. Still, during the first 24 hours after the extraction, patients should avoid smoking, aggressively rinsing the mouth, or brushing around the extraction area.

Some pain and discomfort may occur after the procedure. In certain instances, the dentist may suggest or prescribe a pain reliever. Applying an ice pack to the cheek may help to decrease swelling. Limit vigorous exercise, stay away from hot drinks, and do not drink via a straw. Normally, discomfort should subside within three days to two weeks. If you have persistent or severe pain, swelling, bleeding, or a fever, contact your dental professional at once.

The bottom line

Whether you have undergone the procedure before or this is your first time, the best way to ensure a successful and pain-free operation is to carefully follow your dentist's instructions before and after the procedure. Tooth extraction can help you maintain a healthy, confident smile.

Request an appointment here: https://www.lunadabaydental.com or call Lunada Bay Dental Practice at (310) 448-1260 for an appointment in our Palos Verdes Estates office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Tooth Extraction in Palos Verdes Estates, CA.

Recent Posts

How A Dentist Can Help Alleviate Anxiety Over A Tooth Extraction

Tooth extraction can be a frightening concept, especially for those who have never had a tooth removed before and are not sure what to expect or those who have had a bad experience with extraction in the past. However, there are various things you and your dentist or oral surgeon can do to help mentally…

A Step-by-step Guide To A Tooth Extraction Procedure

Tooth extraction may seem like a scary or daunting procedure, but it’s safe with few potentials for complications. We’re going to go through all the major steps to help put your mind at ease and make you more comfortable about any upcoming procedures.First, the dentist will administer an anesthetic. They may use a local anesthetic…

How Painful Can A Tooth Extraction Be?

Preparing for an upcoming tooth extraction? The main concern for patients is the potential pain that comes with the procedure. Thankfully, modern-day dentistry has allowed for new technology, which helps to keep pain at a minimum. Nonetheless, it is necessary to get familiar with what is involved in order to be appropriately prepared. Keep reading…

Don't Be Afraid Of A Tooth Extraction

When describing the exciting highlights of your day, a tooth extraction will probably not come close to the top of the list. Having a tooth extracted is never a pleasurable experience, but the procedure is essential because of its impact on your oral health and the appearance of your smile.If you have a tooth extraction…

Recent Posts

Can I Play Sports With Dental Implants?

Can I Play Sports With Dental Implants?

Dentists generally recommend dental implants as a natural choice for replacing missing teeth. If you play sports regularly, especially contact sports, you may be worried about continued participation after having your lost teeth replaced. This article covers what you need to know about playing sports with dental implants.Every sport has required skills, levels of fitness…

How A Dentist Can Help Alleviate Anxiety Over A Tooth Extraction

How A Dentist Can Help Alleviate Anxiety Over A Tooth Extraction

Tooth extraction can be a frightening concept, especially for those who have never had a tooth removed before and are not sure what to expect or those who have had a bad experience with extraction in the past. However, there are various things you and your dentist or oral surgeon can do to help mentally…