A Guide To Tooth Extraction

The process of tooth extraction means removing a tooth or two from your mouth. If a tooth is cracked or broken as a result of rotting, your dental professional may try to save some the majority of the tooth. They do this by placing a crown or filling as a substitute for the remaining portion of the teeth. If the damage is beyond repair, you may have to have your teeth taken out. Other reasons for your teeth needing to be taken out include the fact that if you need braces and there is not adequate room in your mouth for your teeth to shift to their proper position, some of your teeth will need to be removed to make room in your mouth. Also, if you are taking cancer drugs or radiation therapy, you may need to have a tooth extraction because your teeth may get infected due to a decline in the immune system. Many people have their wisdom teeth taken out while they are in their teens or early 20's. Teeth that are rotten, infected or are causing pain, will need to come out. In preparation for your oral procedure, your dental surgeon will need to prepare you for the surgery. To do this, an x-ray will be taken so the dentist will have an idea of the most accurate way to remove the teeth. You will need to give your dentist your complete medical and dental history. You will also need to provide the dental expert with a list of all the medications you are currently taking, including prescription medication, OTC medications, herbal supplements and vitamins. There are two different types of tooth extractions done. One is a simple extraction and the other is a surgical extraction. A simple extraction deals with a dentist using an instrument to remove the bony structure. A surgical procedure is a bit more complex and is performed by an oral surgeon who makes an incision in your gums. There may be times when the surgeon will have to take off some bone around the bony part itself or they may have to slice the bony structure in half to take it out. Once the tooth extraction is completed, the surgeon or dentist will provide you with exact instructions on what you need to do and the things you can expect to happen and feel. You may feel a bit of discomfort but OTC pain relievers will normally take care of that. If you had the surgical procedure done, your doctor may prescribe some stronger pain medications for a few days. You can utilize an ice pack if you experience any swelling. You will probably need to eat soft or bland foods for several days after your procedure. You can reintroduce other foods, as you feel necessary until you are back to eating normal. Rinsing with a combination of salt and warm water will help clean the surgical area clean. If you have stitches, you will either have the kind that dissolves or the ones that need to be removed in about 5-10 days.