Thinking about a tooth extraction should bring you peace of mind, not panic. If you need a tooth extracted, you will most likely feel a lot better and have a better smile after the extraction than before. Let our team of dentists here at Thurston Oaks Dental, your Vancouver dentist, help answer all of your questions about tooth extractions, so you can feel better if you need to have one extracted.Although we will do everything we can to preserve your teeth, sometimes the only option is to have a badly diseased tooth removed. Tooth extractions are one of the most common procedures in dentistry and while we understand it may be a big step for you, we will ensure the entire process is as stress-free as possible.
Sometimes, information is powerful. Just knowing more about a tooth extraction might help you gain a better appreciation for why you might need to have the procedure done.
How to Know if You Need a Tooth Extraction
There are a few reasons you might need a tooth extraction. The easiest way to know if you need to have a tooth extracted is to have one of our dentists examine your mouth. Be prepared to tell us any symptoms you are experiencing, such as pain or trouble chewing and swallowing. Every little bit of information you provide us can help our team accurately diagnose and come up with an appropriate treatment plan for you.
There are several reasons why you may need to have a tooth extracted. These include severe tooth decay, periodontal disease, an abscess, impacted wisdom teeth, badly damaged teeth, or overcrowding. Our dental team will lay out all of the possible treatment plans and help you decide on what the right path forward is for you.
Common Problems that Require a Tooth Extraction
Oftentimes tooth extractions are required if you have been in an accident. Any sudden impact or trauma to your mouth can cause damage to your teeth. If your tooth is chipped or cracked beyond repair, then it might need to be extracted.
It is also possible you will need a tooth extraction if your mouth is overcrowded. Sometimes our teeth grow in at angles or on top of another tooth. While extraction might not be needed if braces or other corrective measures can be taken, sometimes it is necessary.
X-rays will help our dentists determine how to proceed as they can see the angle your teeth are growing in at. The best thing you can do is to come prepared with all of your symptoms.
Our team of dentists can take it from there, and we will never recommend tooth extraction unless it is absolutely necessary. We strive to find the right solution for each patient in preserving their teeth. However, if other dental treatments, such as root canals, dental crowns, or fillings cannot be used to save a tooth, removing it may be the best option to prevent further problems.
Will a Tooth Extraction Fix Gum Disease?
Extractions can happen for many reasons, but one of the most common is because of advanced gum disease. Unfortunately, extracting teeth that have been damaged by gum disease does not actually fix the underlying disease.
This is a common misconception, but the bacteria are not just located in or near the teeth. They are everywhere in your mouth, including deep beneath the gum line, in your bones, and even in your bloodstream where they can travel throughout the rest of the body.
Even so, there are still reasons to get your teeth professionally extracted rather than wait for them to fall out because of advancing gum disease. By having them removed in a clean, sterile setting you can reduce the risk of infection.
How to Prepare for Extraction Surgery
Before surgery, our team will go over everything you need to know. Therefore, you will want to prepare in a few ways. For starters, make sure you have someone to transport you to and from surgery.
You will also want to have soft foods and liquids readily available during your recovery process. Also, make sure you have some ice packs in the freezer to help with swelling and inflammation. Our dentists will let you know if you need any medication, and you should pick that up before the surgery, so you do not have to do it afterward.
What Happens During a Tooth Extraction Procedure?
Most tooth extractions are uncomplicated and are carried out by a general dentist. Before the extraction procedure begins x-rays of the tooth are taken to determine that there is nothing to be concerned about that will make the extraction more difficult to require the expertise of an oral surgeon.
The procedure will typically be carried out under a local anesthetic, which numbs the area around the tooth and blocks any pain. If you are particularly anxious about the procedure you may be able to have a sedative or conscious sedation to help you relax.
Using a special tool, the dentist will rock the tooth back and forth which enlarges the tooth socket and loosens the tooth. Once loose enough, forceps are used to remove the tooth.
What to Expect in Recovery After Your Tooth Extraction
Once your tooth is extracted, you will need to deal with some swelling and some minor discomfort in your mouth after the procedure. Ice packs can help with reducing the effects, and after a few days, your mouth will return to normal.
Tooth extractions happen every day, and you will be good as new after it is done. Try to put your mind at ease and trust in our team of dentists and Alan Snodgrass, DDS, who are here for you every step of the way.
If you have any questions or concerns about your tooth extraction, please do not hesitate to give us a call at Thurston Oaks Dental, your Vancouver Dentist, so we can help. We can be reached at (360) 514-9212.
