Why would I need a tooth extraction?
The most commonly removed teeth are your third molars, also called wisdom teeth. In fact, around five million Americans have their wisdom teeth removed every year.
Some of the reasons that you might need to have your wisdom teeth removed include:
- Overcrowding
- Impaction
- Infection
- Tooth decay
- Damage to neighboring teeth
However, you may also need to have other teeth removed to protect your overall dental health. For example, if you have severe tooth decay that can’t be treated with a cavity or root canal, Dr. Johnson may recommend a tooth extraction. Additionally, if your teeth are overcrowded, he might remove teeth to create space, reduce overlapping, and make it easier for you to brush and floss thoroughly.
What happens during a tooth extraction?
Dr. Johnson specializes in wisdom teeth extractions as well as atraumatic surgical extractions. His expertise allows for the best possible experience for you as well as minimize the time needed for healing. He offers both simple and surgical extractions to meet your needs precisely.
Dr. Johnson provides local anesthetic as well as an appropriate level of sedation to ensure you’re comfortable throughout your extraction. During a simple extraction, he uses a special instrument to grasp your tooth and wiggle it loose before pulling it from its socket.
A surgical extraction is slightly more complicated, as Dr. Johnson needs to make a small incision into your gums and jaw to access your tooth. In some cases, he may need to break your tooth into smaller pieces before removing them from your jaw.
After your extraction is complete, he packs your socket with gauze to stop any bleeding. When you recover from your sedative, a friend or family member can drive you home to recover.
How should I take care of my teeth after tooth extraction?
Dr. Johnson provides personalized instructions on how to take care of your mouth after your tooth extraction. For example, he may prescribe painkillers, but in many cases, ice packs and over-the-counter pain relievers should reduce any discomfort.
You will need to avoid brushing your teeth for 24 hours. After the first day, you can gently rinse your mouth with warm saltwater and resume brushing and flossing but should avoid the extraction site while it heals.
You may also feel more comfortable eating soft or liquid foods for a few days. However, don’t use a straw as the suction can dislodge the clots that form to cover and protect your sockets while they heal, which can lead to an uncomfortable condition called dry socket.
If you’re looking for a compassionate dentist with expertise in tooth extractions, call Dr. Johnson or schedule a consultation online today.
