If you’ve never had a tooth extracted before, you may be unsure of what to expect. This common dental procedure may make you feel easy, but it’s in fact fairly straightforward. Here’s some information about what to anticipate during a standard tooth extraction and some general dentistry advice straight from your neighbourhood South Edmonton dentist.
Reasons Why Teeth May Need to Be Pulled
Teeth may need to be surgically extracted for reasons such as overcrowding, decay or trauma. Dentists also routinely recommend extraction for wisdom teeth because these large molars can put pressure on nearby teeth, are difficult to brush and are prone to decay.
Before recommending extraction, your dentist will first determine if the tooth in question can be saved. If it can’t, then pulling the tooth is often the best way to maintain your overall oral health.
What to Expect During Your Visit
Your dentist will need to get an X-ray of your mouth to determine if simple or surgical extraction methods are required.
During a simple extraction, where the whole tooth can be pulled out all at once, your dentist will anesthetize the area to minimize your discomfort.
When the tooth is in a hard to reach position or has to be removed in pieces, it will need to be surgically removed. This is often the case with wisdom teeth, since these large molars are located in the very back of your mouth and tend to be impacted, which means they’re growing beneath the surface of your gum line.
If you need a surgical extraction, your dentist will work to expose the gums and supporting bone structure in order to carefully remove the tooth and any broken fragments.
After Your Tooth Has Been Pulled
The post-procedure instructions we provide at our dental clinic in South Edmonton are catered to the specific needs of our patients and depend on things like the type of procedure performed and the number of teeth removed during one session. It’s important to follow instructions carefully to avoid discomfort and infection and to encourage a quick recovery.
Generally speaking, all patients should avoid smoking, using a straw and vigorous rinsing following a tooth extraction. A soft-food diet if also frequently recommended for one or more days. There can be some swelling and pain following the procedure, which can effectively be mitigated with over-the-counter pain relievers and by applying cold compresses.
Providing Edmonton Dental Patients with Professional Care
To learn more about tooth extraction methods, visit Heritage Dental Centre. The team at our warm and friendly dental clinic proudly provides comprehensive general dentistry services for the whole family. Conveniently located in Heritage Plaza in South Edmonton, we’ve served the community for over 30 years. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
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Dr. Gordon Poznikoff
Owner and General Dentist at Heritage Dental Centre in Edmonton.
