When is a tooth extraction required? Why is a tooth extraction needed? Let us share the most accurate information with you through our specialist doctors.
We all agree that toothache is undoubtedly one of the worst pain. Given the many types of pain, a toothache is one of the most significant factors that reduce our quality of life.
What is tooth extraction?
Tooth extraction is pulling a tooth and its root out of its socket formed in the jawbone. If the dentist has tried and done everything she could, and there is nothing to be done anymore, she will recommend tooth extraction as a last resort. The question then is: When is tooth extraction advised?
When should I consult my dentist?
It is recommended that individuals seek the counsel of their dental practitioner if
- they experience persistent and severe pain,
- excessive bleeding,
- fever,
- or swelling that fails to subside or worsens.
These symptoms may be a dry socket, a problem that requires immediate attention to mitigate the risk of further complications. Patients must seek prompt dental care to prevent the exacerbation of symptoms and promote optimal oral health.
In cases where tooth extraction is necessary?
The dentist may refer to tooth extraction in cases such as:
- A cracked/damaged, i.e. fractured tooth
- Acute/ intense tooth decay
- An impacted tooth- especially wisdom teeth
- Lateral teeth luxation
- Dental trauma/injuries
- Severe and deep gum disease
- Crowded or crooked teeth
- Misshaped/ malpositioned/useless teeth
- Some orthodontic treatments.
A tooth extraction should be performed by a dentist or surgical dentist/ oral surgeon. Especially complicated tooth extraction, impacted tooth extraction, and wisdom tooth extraction should be done by a specialist oral surgeon.
Step-by-step tooth extraction procedure.
Before the tooth extraction:
The dentist tells you the procedure briefly and plainly. You will fill out the form, which includes your medical history and consent. After a detailed examination by the dentist, she takes the patient’s dental x-ray, and then she evaluates the general condition of the tooth/teeth. She checks the jaw bone level and how intense the teeth decay.
While the tooth procedure:
After you lay down on the dental chair, the dentist numbs the area where the tooth to be extracted is. When the tooth is numb, the dentist gently moves it from its socket with special tools and pulls it out. Every now and then, if your tooth is badly decayed and broken, the dentist may cut your gums to extract the tooth. After tooth extraction is accomplished, its socket is cleaned and disinfected. Stitches may be required after some tooth extractions, and your doctor will do this if necessary after extraction.
After the tooth extraction:
There may be some bleeding after tooth extraction; this is very normal. The dentist puts gauze on the extraction area to stop the bleeding. You can remove the gauze after keeping it in the mouth for about half an hour. The effect of the anaesthesia will wear off in about an hour.
Please bear in mind that:
Try not to spit and swallow your saliva for 24 hours after tooth extraction.
Avoid mouthwash or rinse, just for 24 hours.
If need be, take painkillers or antibiotics.
Brush softly and regularly during the day.
Not smoking is of the utmost importance during this period.
After tooth extraction, it takes between 48 and 72 hours for everything to return to normal.
How does a tooth extraction process work?
In the case of an impacted or visible tooth, there are two options the extraction will be either simple or surgical. Let’s explore each one of these two options separately.
Simple Dental Extraction
As the name suggests, dental extraction is a quick and straightforward procedure. Dental extraction may sound daunting, but it is a simple and safe procedure that can be carried out by a general dentist. By using a local anaesthetic, any discomfort experienced by the patient is minimized, ensuring a pain-free experience.
The procedure involves using an elevator and dental forceps to remove visible teeth. The elevator is used to loosen the tooth, while the forceps grip it for extraction. With gentle and controlled pressure, the tooth can be removed without any pain or discomfort to the patient.
Overall, by using a local anaesthetic and the proper instruments, the procedure is pain-free and safe, providing you with peace of mind and a healthier smile.
Surgical extraction
Surgical dental extraction is a procedure that involves removing teeth that are not easily accessible, often due to incomplete eruption or fracture under the gum line. The process requires the administration of local and intravenous anaesthesia, and in some cases, general anaesthesia may be necessary, depending on the patient’s medical conditions. During the procedure, an incision is made into the connective tissue surrounding the tooth, and soft tissues may be elevated or the nearby jawbone may be removed with a drill or osteotome. Tooth fragmentation may be required at times.
Given the complexity of surgical dental extractions and the associated discomfort, the procedure is typically performed by an oral surgeon in a dental hospital setting. However, in certain cases, a general dentist may be qualified to perform the procedure. It is important to note that patients should receive the utmost care and attention throughout the process to ensure a safe and successful outcome.
In general, it is recommended to consider a simple tooth extraction over a surgical option, where possible, as the former is associated with a lower incidence of adverse effects and is comparatively easier to perform. However, the choice between the two options is often limited, and a simple tooth extraction is performed only if the tooth is easily accessible. In cases where the tooth is not visible or easily accessible, surgical extraction is the preferred and often the only method.
Which risks arise from having a tooth taken?
It is important to note that while there are some risks associated with undergoing a tooth extraction, the benefits of the procedure are often worth any potential complications.
Mostly, a blood clot will form naturally in the socket after a tooth extraction. However, the clot can fail to form or become dislodged, resulting in a “dry socket.” In such cases, your dentist can take action to protect the area, such as placing a medicated dressing over it for several days to promote the formation of a new clot.
Dental surgical procedures carry other inherent risks that patients should be aware of. Those risks include
- prolonged bleeding, lasting beyond 12 hours,
- the occurrence of severe fever and chills, which may indicate an infection.
Other possible symptoms that could arise post-surgery include
- nausea or vomiting,
- cough,
- chest pain,
- shortness of breath,
and swelling or redness around the surgical site.
It is imperative to monitor for these symptoms diligently and promptly seek professional assistance from your dentist if any of them manifest.
What is the cost of extracting a tooth?
The cost of tooth extraction is highly dependent on the complexity of the procedure and individual circumstances. In certain cases, a dentist may perform the extraction at their office. Nonetheless, in more complicated extractions, an oral surgeon and sedation may be necessary, resulting in a higher cost. During the consultation, a dentist or specialist will provide an estimate of the cost based on the patient’s specific situation. It is our goal to ensure that all patients are aware of the expected costs before proceeding with the procedure, and we strive to provide a professional and respectful experience throughout the process.
Is it a painful procedure?
When undergoing a tooth or teeth extraction procedure, the dentist’s utmost priority is to ensure that the patient feels comfortable. The dentist typically administers a numbing agent to the area being treated to prevent any pain. For oral surgery, sedation can be administered to induce a relaxed state and avert pain during the procedure. While some discomfort may be experienced, the extraction procedure is generally pain-free.
Are there ways to prevent tooth extractions?
Tooth extraction, like most dental issues, can be avoided through regular dental checkups and good oral hygiene practices. Still, certain conditions, such as wisdom tooth removal, orthodontic treatment, and cancer medication or radiation therapy, may necessitate tooth extraction. It is essential to consult a dental professional to determine whether tooth extraction is the best course of action in such circumstances.
Anaesthesia options in tooth extraction:
The dentist operates the tooth extraction procedure under local anaesthesia as the other dental procedure. This anaesthesia will prevent you from feeling pain, sensitivity or tenderness, and the procedure will be more comfortable. If you have apprehension or fear about dental treatment or a dentist, the alternative may be sedation, which makes you calm and help you to unwind from the stress of the treatment. The last alternative option would be general anaesthesia. It is chiefly for children, the elderly or disabled individuals. If the doctor recommends general anaesthesia, this will be in the hospital.
What to do next after the tooth extraction?
Usually, after tooth extraction, dentists will make a few recommendations for you. The first will be the dental implant, and the second will be the dental bridge or dentures.
A dental implant is the best option for a long-term solution. This treatment needs two different visiting requirements. For more information on this subject, visit our dental implants page.
Dental bridges are to close the empty spaces after tooth extraction with prosthetic teeth. For more information on this subject, visit our dental bridges page.
Do not hesitate to consult our doctor about the aforementioned options.
In our clinic- Dental Dream Turkey, the most experienced dentists are here to help you and put you at your ease during the treatment. With the latest technology and a well-experienced dental team, you will get this done with a painless and worry-free procedure. We are the best for you. DentOdream cares about you and your teeth a lot.