While good oral habits will take you a long way in ensuring your teeth stay in perfect shape, sometimes, problems arise that forces you to undergo tooth extraction. Your dentist will let you know of this situation, and more often than not, that’s your only choice. That said, how do you know exactly when you need a tooth extraction? What exactly is the tooth extraction process? These and more are the questions we’re going to answer today for first-time tooth extraction:
What Is Tooth Extraction?
Tooth extraction is the permanent removal of teeth. It’s essentially the opposite of a dental implant. Tooth extraction involves the removal of the tooth, and it can be done in one or two visits to the dentist.
When Is Tooth Extraction Necessary?
Tooth extraction is necessary when the tooth is either severely damaged, too decayed, or has a fracture that cannot be treated any other way. For example, if the tooth has a root fracture or the pulp is damaged, removing the tooth is the best option.
What Does the Tooth Extraction Process Involve?
Generally, a tooth extraction will involve two steps. The first step involves anesthesia, where the dentist will numb the tooth area using either a local or general anesthetic. The second step, the actual tooth extraction, is performed after the anesthesia has taken effect. The dentist will remove the tooth using a special tool and then suture the gums to ensure there is no bleeding. There is also a chance that your dentist will prescribe antibiotics to prevent infection. However, if the reason for the tooth extraction was severe damage or decay, you may be prescribed antibiotics anyway.
When Does a Tooth Extraction Require Sedation or General Anesthesia?
Sedation or general anesthesia is usually required for extractions of wisdom teeth, impacted roots, facial or root teeth, and infected teeth. Sedation is required because such extractions can be too painful to bear without it, and for that reason, sedation is administered.
What Are the Risks of Tooth Extraction?
As with all things, removing a tooth has its risks. One of the most common risks of tooth extraction is infection. To help reduce the chances of infection, your dentist will prescribe antibiotics either before or after the procedure.
How Long Does It Take To Recover from Tooth Extraction?
Recovering from tooth extraction is a bit tricky because it varies from person to person. The recovery time can range between two weeks and six weeks, but the average person needs roughly two weeks to recover. During this time, you will have swelling, pain, and bruising, but this should subside within a couple of days.
Conclusion
Tooth extraction is a serious business, but it’s not the end of the world. The right dentist and the right anesthesia will help you get through the process. If you have any other questions in mind, don’t be hesitant to ask your dentist. They’ll be more than glad to answer any questions you might have about tooth extractions. Also, be sure to get your tooth extracted only by professional and trusted dentists. This ensures you get the best experience possible and an extraction process that ends on the right note.
Oro Valley Dental Arts offers dental services covering cosmetic, restorative, and more in Arizona. Schedule a visit with us today for your tooth extraction!
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