Tooth Extraction

What you need to know:

If you are in pain? Call Dr. Affleck @ (801) 614-7013 for immediate pain relief !

Often, a broken or decayed tooth can be fixed with a filling, root canal, crown, or other dental treatment. But if the damage is extensive enough that a tooth is unsalvageable, or there is enough risk of infection spreading into the jaw, it is important to remove the tooth entirely.

When Is Tooth Extraction Necessary?

The tooth has deep decay or infection
There's not sufficient space for all your teeth in your mouth.
Trauma or injury
Baby teeth don't fall out in time for the permanent ones to come in
To prevent potential infection. for example... Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are often removed either before or after they erupt.

Preparation

Before taking out a tooth, Dr. Affleck will carefully go through your medical and dental history and conduct necessary X-rays. X-rays show the tooth's length, shape, and position in relation to the surrounding bone. With this information, Dr. Affleck can decide the best approach for removal or whether it is necessary to refer you to an oral surgeon.

For a simple extraction, the area around your tooth will be numbed using local anesthetic. In more complex cases, known as surgical extraction, Dr. Affleck has his license in general anesthesia, completely sedating you and putting you to sleep so you feel no pain at all.

If you opt for sedation instead of local anesthetic, it's essential to arrange for someone to drive you home and stay with you until the effect wears off.

Extraction Process

Two types of extractions you might have:

Simple Extraction

It involves taking out a tooth that you can see in your mouth. Simple extractions are often done by a general dentist. In this procedure, your dentist will numb the tooth and gum tissue, then gently loosen the tooth using an instrument called an elevator before removing it with dental forceps.

Surgical Extraction

This is a more intricate process done for a tooth that may have broken off at the gum line or hasn't emerged in the mouth yet. Typically, oral surgeons handle surgical extractions, but general dentists can also perform them. In a surgical extraction, the dentist makes a small incision (cut) in your gum to access and remove the underlying tooth.

After the Removal

The key focus after a tooth extraction is to maintain cleanliness and prevent infection.

After pullying your tooth, Dr. Affleck t may ask you to gently bite down on sterile gauze for 30 to 45 minutes to control bleeding as clotting occurs. He will give you detailed aftercare instructions, advise against smoking, recommend vigorous rinsing and cleaning of the adjacent teeth for the first 24 hours.

Expect some discomfort post-extraction. Dr. Affleck might suggest or prescribe painkillers, and applying an ice pack can help reduce swelling. It's advisable to avoid strenuous activities, hot liquids, and drinking through a straw. Normally, discomfort should subside within three days to two weeks. If you experience prolonged or severe pain, swelling, bleeding, or fever, contact Affleck Dental immediately.

Whether you're a tooth extraction pro or a newbie, following your dentist's advice diligently before and after the procedure is crucial for a successful and uncomplicated recovery. Tooth extraction opens the door to something better, contributing to a healthy and confident smile.