Tooth extraction is a relatively quick and simple outpatient procedure performed by oral surgeons and dentists. These procedures are more common than you might think. While many teens and some adults get a wisdom tooth extraction in Yardley, PA, there are many other reasons for the intervention, from too many teeth to gum disease.
If you believe you need a tooth extraction in the Yardley area, Innovative Implant and Oral Surgery is here to help. Our expert dentists will work with you to come up with a personalized treatment plan.
Reasons for a Tooth Extraction
There are many different dental situations that call for a tooth to be removed. The most common are:
- Tooth Damage – If a tooth is damaged or decayed all the way to its center, referred to as the pulp, the tooth needs to be removed in order to prevent bacteria from entering and spreading infection.
- Too Many Teeth – Many people need teeth removed in order to make space for braces or other orthodontic interventions. Alternatively, there may not be enough room in the mouth for a tooth to break through the gum, making it necessary to extract it.
- Gum Disease – Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is when the bones and tissue around the teeth become infected. This infection can sometimes loosen the teeth, making it safer to remove them.
What Happens in a Tooth Extraction?
There are two different kinds of procedures for tooth extraction: simple and surgical.
Simple tooth extractions are performed when the tooth is visible above the gums. The dentist will administer local anesthetic to numb the area around the tooth being removed and will then loosen the tooth and extract it.
Surgical tooth extractions are necessary if the tooth is impacted, meaning it is not visible above the gums. For surgical extractions, the patient is numbed with both local anesthesia and intravenous anesthesia. Some people also choose to be given general anesthesia to remain unconscious during the procedure.
The additional anesthetic is important as the oral surgeon will cut into the gums to remove the impacted tooth.
Tooth Extraction Recovery
A simple tooth extraction requires minimal recovery and care. A surgical tooth extraction does need a few days of recovery and special care, including:
- Prescribed painkillers
- Ice packs to reduce swelling
- Gauze to minimize bleeding and blood clot formation
- Rest and reduced physical activity
- Rinsing with warm saltwater to fight infection
- A diet of soft foods like soups and smoothies
- No smoking as cigarettes interfere with clotting and healing
- No forcible rinsing or spitting
- No drinking from straws
- Elevation while lying down to stop unnecessary bleeding
Most importantly, a tooth extraction does not mean a free pass from brushing. Make sure that you brush and floss as normal, but take care to avoid the extraction site.
Don’t Wait, Call Innovative Implant and Oral Surgery
If you need a tooth extraction procedure, it’s best to get it done as soon as you can. The longer you wait to remove a tooth, the higher the risk of infection and other potentially painful complications.
If you need a tooth extraction in Yardley, Innovative Implant and Oral Surgery is here for you. We specialize in tooth extractions and follow-up procedures and have been helping Yardley residents get and maintain beautiful smiles for years. Call us today to schedule a one-on-one consultation.