WHEN IS TOOTH EXTRACTION (REMOVAL) NEEDED?
Tooth extraction can be a frightening procedure, scaring many of us. People are not just afraid of the intervention: losing a teeth is not a happy incident on its own, either.
Removal is usually only necessary when there is no other way to save the tooth.
Diseased and aching teeth – or sometimes even those not yet causing actual discomfort – have to be removed in the following cases:
- if acute or chronic inflammation has started from the tooth, and it cannot be saved by root canal treatment or by root-end resection (apicoectomy).
- if the tooth cannot be saved due to advanced periodontal disease.
- if the tooth was damaged by injury and the root is beyond repair.
- if the tooth has deep cavities or pulpitis, but root canal treatment cannot be performed properly, or roots are unsuitable for restoration.
- after unsuccessful endodontic treatment, if the tooth is not suitable for further treatment.
- if partially erupted or supernumerary teeth do not fit properly into the dentition – either functionally or aesthetically.
- if a tooth hampers the effectiveness of an orthodontic treatment or prosthetic rehabilitation.
HOW IS A TOOTH EXTRACTED?
Tooth extraction is performed under local anesthesia and is usually painless, thanks to the use of modern anesthetic substances and techniques. You will only feel some slight pressure and prying tension. If you do feel pain, please let us know!
Tooth extraction can be carried out with flap or flapless, using a forceps or an elevator, and if necessary, removing the bone surrounding the root. This is sometimes followed by gentle curettage (scraping) of the socket, taking care to protect the surrounding structures. The wound is bandaged with a pressure gauze and/or stitched. Stitches are usually removed after a week.
IMPORTANT TO KNOW AFTER TOOTH EXTRACTION
After tooth extraction, there are a few things to be aware of to help the wound heal quickly and without complications.
The first inconvenience you will encounter is pain and discomfort after the anesthetic wears off. In this case, you are advised to take painkillers. You may also need to take antibiotics and painkillers through the following days.
In the first 4 to 5 hours after removal, your saliva may be light red from blood seeping out of the wound. Don’t be scared of this sign!
It is important to know that you should not eat until the numbing effect of the anesthetic has worn off, although you are allowed to drink liquids.
The gums or face can swell up to a varying degree after tooth extraction, and a slight bluish discolouration of the skin is also possible. In the first few days after the pulling, you should avoid milk and dairy products, hot or spicy foods, any food containing seeds (such as nuts, hazelnuts, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, muesli), smoking or drinking alcohol.You can reduce the swelling by cooling the face using a cold compress or ice. The swelling usually improves within 3-4 days following the tooth extraction.
Soft, easily chewable foods are recommended.
How to brush your teeth
The affected area should only be cleaned after 24 hours have passed, and then only with a soft-bristled toothbrush. However, you should not reach into the wound with the toothbrush, and should take care not to rinse it vigorously, and avoid sucking on the socket.
It is not advised to swish mouthwash or water around in your mouth, because if the blood clot is dislocated from the wound, it will begin to bleed again.
The chances of complications are much lower if you pay attention to strict oral hygiene after tooth extraction.
POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS
The site of the pulled tooth can become inflamed: if the blood clot falls out of position, if you experience a continuous, throbbing, sharp pain even after a few days, or if your general condition deteriorates (e.g. if you have a fever), you should definitely visit our dentistry! Just like any intervention, this procedure can involve risks. In very rare cases the maxillary sinus can open up, there may be mandibular fracture, damage to blood vessels or nerves, which can lead to bleeding and persistent numbness.
WHAT ARE THE OPTIONS FOR RESTORING A MISSING TOOTH?
Losing a tooth is not the same irreversible issue it used to be. There are several options for restoring a missing tooth.
You can choose a bridge or an implant.
Whenever we extract a tooth – if the circumstances allow, in case of a planned intervention – we can even offer immediate implantation.
We believe in the importance of patient information, as giving accurate instructions to follow can make a big difference to the outcome of a procedure. You can read and download our patient information leaflet here, which will hopefully be helpful.
PATIENT INFORMATION LEAFLETS
OUR DENTISTS UNDERTAKING THE PROCEDURE
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