At our practice, we try to save a patient’s natural tooth, but there are times when gum disease, dental decay or tooth trauma results in a poor prognosis for the affected tooth, and a tooth extraction is the best option.
What is a simple extraction?
A simple extraction is when the tooth that must be removed is easily visible to the dentist and is above the gum line. Once your tooth is numb, your dentist uses forceps to perform a simple extraction.
What is a surgical extraction?
A surgical extraction is required when the tooth has been broken off below the gum line, or the tooth is fully or partially impacted which is often the case with wisdom teeth.
If this is the case, your dentist or oral surgeon must surgically remove gum tissue or bone to extract the tooth.
What aftercare is required when you have a tooth extracted?
Biting down gently on gauze can help stop the bleeding and form a clot.
Your dentist will recommend that you avoid drinking hot beverages or eating hot food until the anaesthetic has worn off. You should also avoid rinsing your mouth for the first 24 hours. After this, you will be encouraged to complete saltwater mouth rinses two to three times daily for the following seven days and to avoid eating on the extraction site during this initial period of healing. It is imperative that your normal oral hygiene practices are maintained after the extraction and that the teeth around the extraction site are kept clean.
Over-the-counter painkillers can help with any slight discomfort you might feel if suitable for you to take.
For a careful extraction from an experienced dentist, contact us on 01892 522 297 or book your appointment online today.
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