It can be very nerve-wracking when you are facing the prospect of having a tooth extracted. However,
did you know that this procedure is fairly common in dentistry? This article will talk about the various
procedures involved in tooth extraction and how you can learn more about it.

When do you need a Tooth Extraction?
Sometimes, a tooth is damaged or broken due to decay. You can repair it with a crown, a filling, or other
dental procedures. However, if the damage is too severe, your dentist may recommend extraction.

Here are some other reasons why a tooth extraction might be necessary:
Decay or infection has reached deep into the tooth
Trauma or injury
There isn’t enough room for all the teeth in your mouth
Baby teeth don’t fall out in time for the permanent teeth to come in
Wisdom teeth, also called third molars, are often extracted either before or after they come in
Orthodontic treatment might require tooth extraction to create room for the teeth as they move into
place

What’s the Tooth Extraction Process
There are two types of extractions you might have:
1) One type of extraction is a simple one, which involves taking out a tooth that's visible in your mouth.
During this process, your dentist will use an instrument called an elevator to numb the area around the
tooth and remove it using dental forceps.
2) Another type of extraction is a surgical extraction, which is performed on a tooth that's not yet in the
mouth. During this process, the doctor makes a small incision into the gum to remove the tooth. General
dentists can also perform this procedure.

How to prepare for a Tooth Extraction

Before a tooth is taken out, your dentist will thoroughly examine you and your medical history. He or
she will also take X-rays to check the position and length of the tooth, as well as the surrounding bone
and gum. This information can help them determine if they should refer you to an oral surgeon.

After to expect after the Extraction

One of the most important things to keep in mind after a tooth has been extracted is to keep the area
clean. After the procedure, your dentist will give you a sterile bandage to help prevent bleeding. You
should keep this piece in place for around 30 to 45 minutes to minimize the bleeding.
After your procedure, your dentist will give you detailed aftercare instructions. However, for the next 24
hours, you should refrain from vigorously cleaning your teeth and engaging in other activities.
Depending on the type of extraction, you might experience some discomfort and pain. In some cases,
your dentist will give you a pain killer or prescribe one. You can also apply an ice pack to minimize
swelling. However, if you experience severe or prolonged pain, you should immediately consult an oral
surgeon. In normal cases, the discomfort should subside within three to two days. However, if it lingers
for a prolonged amount of time, or if it gets worse, you should seek immediate medical attention.

If you’re a seasoned pro or a first-time tooth extraction patient, you should follow the recommendations
of your dentist before and after the procedure. Having a tooth taken out can improve your smile and
keep it looking its best.

Reviewed by Twingates Dental Center Senior Dental Surgeon, Dr Andre Foote.