HAVING A TOOTH EXTRACTED IS SOMETHING WE ALL WANT TO AVOID, INCLUDING US! THAT’S WHY WE ALWAYS TRY TO SAVE THE TOOTH AND ADDRESS THE ISSUE WITH RESTORATIVE TREATMENT WHERE POSSIBLE. HOWEVER, DESPITE OUR BEST EFFORTS, IF A TOOTH HAS BEEN IRREVERSIBLY DAMAGED OR DECAYED TO THE POINT THAT IT WILL BE HEALTHIER FOR THE MOUTH AND REMAINING TEETH TO BE REMOVED, THEN WE MIGHT NEED TO PERFORM AN EXTRACTION.
Knowing what to expect and how to recover can make your extraction experience less distressing and painful. Here are just some of the questions our patient’s ask us which can help you prepare should you require an extraction.
First of all, you’ll probably be asking yourself, “Why me? Why do I have to have an extraction?” There isn’t a straightforward answer here and there could be a number of reasons – but some of the most common factors include:
- Severe infection, damage or decay
- Advanced gum disease
- Abscess (pus around gums/teeth)
- Impacted wisdom teeth
- Fractured teeth
- To make room for an orthodontic appliance or dental prosthesis (due to overcrowding)
- Milk teeth not falling out at the proper age
IS THE PROCEDURE SAFE?
To put your mind at ease, tooth extractions are a common and completely safe procedure that millions of people undergo each year. Depending on the tooth’s shape, size, position and location will determine the right type of procedure for you. If the tooth is accessible above the gum line and can be removed in one piece, it would require a simple extraction. Teeth that are stuck, broken, or haven’t emerged above the gum line will require a complex extraction; involving removal of the gum tissue or bone and removing the tooth in pieces.
WILL THE PROCEDURE HURT?
We understand extractions can be a stressful time for our patients. Whilst we will provide a local anaesthetic to numb the site of the extraction and eliminate pain, you will feel pressure. Our team are highly skilled in carrying out extractions and practising steady techniques to reduce discomfort and make the experience as painless as possible. We also offer IV sedation for our nervous patients.
HOW DO YOU PREPARE?
Knowing what to expect can make your extraction experience less distressing. We will undertake a complete medical history and take x-rays of the affected area. We recommend you arrange transportation to and from the surgery, and unless otherwise advised, you can eat and drink as normal on the day of extraction.
We understand you may have more questions around your impending tooth extraction or are nervous that you may have to have one in the future. We are more than happy to speak with you about your concerns and help put you at ease. Contact us today by completing our online form or by booking an online consultation here.
