Tooth extraction is necessary for both kids and adults. Tooth extraction is a procedure wherein a severely damaged or decayed tooth is extracted from its socket in the bone. Certain reasons need to be considered first before getting rid of a tooth completely. If the tooth can be saved by performing a particular dental procedure, then tooth extraction is not necessary.

The reason for tooth extraction include:

Crowded Teeth

Sometimes, dentists need to extract the teeth in preparation for orthodontic treatments. The purpose of orthodontic treatment is to properly align the teeth, which is sometimes impossible if the teeth are too big for the mouth. On the other hand, if a tooth cannot break through the gum because there is not enough room for it, the dentist may recommend a tooth extraction.

Infection

If the tooth decay or damage advances to the pulp, bacteria in the mouth can enter the tooth’s pulp which will lead to an infection. Usually, root canal treatment can manage it. However, if the infection is so severe that it cannot be handled by root canal treatment, then tooth extraction is needed.

Risk of infection

If a person’s immune system is compromised, then the risk of infection in a particular tooth may be enough reason for tooth extraction.

Periodontal disease

When the tooth loosens caused by periodontal or gum disease, then pulling out the teeth may be necessary. Periodontal disease is an infection of the tissues and bones that surround and support the teeth.

What to expect with tooth extraction?

Dentists and oral surgeons are the ones responsible for performing a tooth extraction procedure. Before starting the procedure, the dentist will give the patient an anesthetic, specifically local anesthesia, to numb the area where the tooth will be removed. In some instances, the dentist may use strong general anesthesia to eliminate pain and make the patient sleep during the procedure. This is usually done in a more complex dental procedure.

For an impacted tooth, the dentist will cut away gum and bone tissue that covers the tooth. The dentist will then grasp the tooth and gently rock it back and forth to loosen it from the jawbone and ligaments by using forceps. However, there are also instances where hard to remove teeth are removed in pieces.

Once the tooth has been successfully removed, a blood clot will form in the socket. The dentist will place a gauze pad on it and let the patient bite it gently to help stop the bleeding. Sometimes, then the dentist will place a few stitches to close the gum edges over the extraction site.

A blood clot in the socket sometimes breaks loose which exposes the bone in the socket. This painful condition is called a dry socket. If this situation happens, the dentist will place a sedative dressing over the socket for a few days to let new clot form and protect it from breaking loose.

Looking for a safe and pain-free procedure? Book an appointment with us, call and visit us at 310 S. Dale Mabry Hwy., Suite #120 Tampa, FL 33609. Flex Dental staff are caring and dedicated and can help you feel pleasant during your Teeth Extractions in Tampa, FL.