FAQ's

What is a tooth extraction?

A tooth extraction is a dental procedure during which your tooth is completely removed from its socket. Sometimes, people refer to this as pulling a tooth.

Who performs tooth extraction?

dental specialists like oral and maxillofacial surgeon are specialized to perform tooth extractions. While general dentists perform simple extractions, more complex cases are usually carried out by oral surgeons.

When is tooth extraction recommended?

Tooth extraction is indicated if you have:

• Severe tooth decay
• Crowded teeth
• Severe gum disease
• A fractured tooth
• An impacted tooth
• Tooth luxation or other dental injuries

What happens before a tooth extraction?

At perfect teeth dental clinic, first we assess your affected tooth and surrounding gums. Then we take dental X-rays to check bone levels and determine the extent of damage. Before starting the treatment, be sure to tell your dentist about any medications you’re taking. Once all information is gathered, treatment and anaesthesia/sedation options will be discussed with you in detail.

Anaesthesia/Sedation options in dentistry

In general, we give local anaesthesia during tooth extractions and other dental procedures. Sedation is the best option for people who have dental anxiety — or for those who simply want to be more comfortable during their appointment. Sedation medications which can be used in dentistry include:

Nitrous oxide/ “laughing gas,”: It is a gas that you inhale through a mask or nosepiece. It’s best used for people who want light-level sedation.
Oral conscious sedation This type of sedation is given orally in tablet form, about an hour before your dental appointment. Common medications used for this purpose include diazepam, midazolam, triazolam and lorazepam. People who choose oral conscious sedation will need a friend or family member to drive them to and from their appointment.
Intravenous (IV) sedation. This is given to patients with higher levels of dental anxiety. IV sedation is the highest level of sedation that can be obtained in a dental office setting. People who choose IV sedation will need to make arrangements for a driver on the day of their procedure.
general anaesthesia, In some cases, after thorough examination our team may recommend general anaesthesia in a hospital setting. This option is usually done for complex cases, such as facial reconstruction or corrective jaw surgery.

What happens during a tooth extraction?

First, local anaesthesia is given to numb your affected tooth and surrounding gum tissue. Using specialized dental instruments, our doctor will gently loosen your tooth and carefully lift it from its socket. Sometimes, we might need to make incisions in your gums to access your tooth, this is done especially if your tooth is badly decayed or has broken off at the gum line. Once your tooth is removed, the socket is cleaned and disinfected.

What happens after a tooth extraction?

When the procedure is complete, your dentist will place a piece of gauze over the extraction site and ask you to bite with firm, steady pressure. This helps slow bleeding so a blood clot can form. You’ll take the gauze out once the bleeding has slowed enough.

What are the advantages of tooth extractions?

Tooth extraction offers a number of benefits. If your infected tooth is left untreated, it can cause damage to your teeth and gums. Removing your affected tooth gives you the best chance for optimal oral health. Additionally, a tooth extraction can help ease dental pain almost immediately — especially if your tooth was severely broken or infected.

What are the risks or complications of tooth extraction?

Like any surgical procedure, tooth extraction carries a small risk of complications. These may include:

• Post-surgical infection.
• Dry socket
• Perforation of maxillary sinus
• Delayed healing
• Nerve injury

What are the down side of removing a tooth?

Normal side effects following tooth extraction include bleeding, swelling and discomfort. Your dentist will provide instructions on how to successfully manage your healing.

How long does it take to recover from a tooth extraction?

Recovery depends on the complexity of your case. While you’ll be able to return to routine activities within 48 to 72 hours, it usually takes the jawbone several weeks to heal completely.

Post extraction instructions

After your extraction, we will give you a detailed list of post-surgical instructions. Following are some general guidelines for a speedy recovery:

• Avoid spitting and sucking (drinking through straws) for first 24 hours, as this can dislodge blood clots and cause dry socket.
• Keep the extraction site clean. Gently rinse the area with warm saline rinses two to three times a day. Avoid brushing directly over your extraction site until your dentist tells you it’s safe to do so. Brush and floss all other areas normally.
• Take all medications as directed. It’s important to take all of these medications exactly as directed.
• Avoid strenuous activity for at least two days. An elevated heart rate can cause increased post-operative bleeding and discomfort. Skip the gym for the first 48 to 72 hours.
• Avoid hard and crunchy foods for the first few days. Have cold and soft food like ice-cream, rice, pasta, eggs and yogurt.

When can I go back to work?

Most people are able to return to work within a day or two. If your work requires a lot of lifting or physical labour, you may need to take a few more days off work.

When should I see my dentist?

Whenever you feel toothache or dental pain, it’s important to schedule a visit with your dentist. They can help determine the cause and design a personalized treatment plan.

If you’ve already had a tooth extraction, call your dentist if you develop a fever of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit or higher, pus around the extraction site or severe pain that doesn’t improve with medication.

At Perfect Teeth Dental Clinic, our priority is to save and preserve your badly damaged tooth. However, in certain cases, a tooth extraction may be necessary to eliminate infection and prevent further complications. If your dentist recommends an extraction, it is important to discuss replacement options to restore the appearance, function, and overall oral health.

Following a tooth extraction, there are several options for tooth replacement, including dental implants, dental crowns, bridges, or partial dentures. Dental implants are a popular choice as they provide a permanent and natural-looking solution. They are designed to replace the missing tooth root and provide a strong foundation for a dental crown. Dental crowns and bridges can also be used to restore the aesthetics and functionality of your smile. Partial dentures are removable appliances that can replace one or more missing teeth.