Tooth Extraction – Here are 2 Ways It Can be Done
There’s a general consensus amongdentists: to always strive to save each tooth. That’s because they understand that each of your ivories plays a significant role in maintaining a degree of homeostasis. There are some situations, though, when pulling a tooth is the only viable option. However, there is more than one way for a dentist to perform a tooth extraction in Bridgeport. As you continue reading, you’ll learn about two options.
The Simple Dental Extraction Process Explained
As the name suggests, a simple dental extraction is a less involved procedure. One of the reasons it may be used is in the case of a painful toothache where oral bacteria have caused too much damage for the tooth to be salvaged. A prerequisite, though, is that the tooth must be visible in the mouth.
The procedure involves a dentist first administering a local anesthesia to numb the treatment site. Thus, the patient doesn’t have to worry about being in pain throughout the procedure.
While applying steady and controlled force, the dentist will use special tools (called an elevator and dental forceps) to grasp the affected tooth and detach it from the underlying bone and ligaments. If the tooth isn’t easily accessible, then another method may be used.
When a Surgical Dental Extraction is Needed
In a situation where a tooth is impacted, which means that it hasn’t completely emerged, a surgical procedure will be required for extraction. This method may also be employed if the tooth has fractured beneath the gum line.
After numbing the treatment area, the dentist will make an incision into the gums to gain access to the trapped tooth. In some cases, this also requires removing a portion of the jawbone that may be obstructing the tooth. The level of complexity of the procedure can vary, as in some cases, the tooth has to be fragmented into several pieces to allow it to be removed. In such a case, the dentist may need to administer general anesthesia.
Caring for the Extraction Site
No matter which type of extraction you undergo, it’s important to take the necessary post-surgery steps to encourage healing. Here are some helpful pointers to keep in mind:
- Eat Soft Foods– After your surgery, it’s best to eat foods like apple sauce, yogurt and mashed potatoes to prevent an injury to the extraction site.
- Effective Pain Relief– Typically, there will be a little discomfort after the procedure is completed. To manage any pain, you can take ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil).
- Avoid Using a Straw– To prevent damage to the treatment site that could lead to a painful infection, it’s best to avoid drinking through a straw while your gums are healing, as it could cause the blood clot to dislodge.
- The Danger of Tobacco– Using tobacco while your gums are healing can also interrupt the natural blood clotting process and lead to a painful infection.
While having a tooth extracted is not ideal, by receiving care from a skilled dentist in Bridgeport, any further damage can be stopped. You can also ask your dentist about what your options are for replacing the tooth, so you can get on with fully restoring your oral health.
About the Practice
Your health and safety have always been our number one priority at Curtis Family Dentistry in Bridgeport, CT. That’s why Dr. Nizi Gupta and Dr. Michael Curtis do everything they can to see you as soon as possible after your dental emergency, preferably within hours of you calling our office. Alongside years of experience in handling complex dental urgent care, they’re also proud to offer the most advanced dental technology and sedation dentistry. If you or a loved one is experiencing a dental emergency, please don’t hesitate to contact them via theirwebsiteor at (203) 372-4296.