Denture Repair: Home Remedies and More

Dental extraction refers to the process of removing a tooth from its socket in the jawbone. Your dentist can recommend this therapy if you have an extensively damaged tooth. Generally, the practitioner will attempt to repair your broken or decayed teeth with fillings and crowns. If these do not produce the desired results, tooth removal must be performed. You might also require an extraction if you have extra teeth in your oral cavity. Additionally, impacted teeth and infected teeth that can weaken the immune system during transplants will be removed. It is critical to understand the different aspects of the procedure so that you can prepare. Here is a brief description of the main dental extraction aspects.

Diagnosis

Your dentist will need to assess the tooth of interest prior to the extraction session. This will help them determine the best method for extraction and anticipate any potential complications. A simple X-ray image of the tooth and the surrounding area will be taken for guidance. In some cases, a panoramic X-ray will be necessary; it takes an image of all your teeth at once. For example, this is used during wisdom tooth extractions. The image helps ensure that important structures such as close-by teeth, sinuses and significant nerves are not injured. You should also discuss your medical history with the oral expert during the assessment. The dentist might recommend antibiotics prior to the extraction, and they can discourage ingestion of some over-the-counter medication and even supplements.

Types

There are two primary types of dental extraction procedures: simple and surgical. The right choice for you will depend on the state of the pertinent affected tooth. Simple tooth extraction involves loosening the tooth with a device known as an elevator and pulling it out from the socket with dental forceps. This procedure type is appropriate when the tooth is clearly visible in your mouth. Surgical extractions are more complex, and they are performed when the tooth is below the gum line. An oral surgeon will make an incision in your gum to expose the broken or non-erupted tooth. This allows them to loosen or break the tooth for easy removal.

Potential Risks

Tooth extractions are relatively straightforward, and the affected site heals quickly. However, there is a small risk of dry socket, which occurs when a clot fails to form in the hole. This exposes the underlying bone structure to air, causing extensive pain. You should see the dentist for medicated dressing if the problem arises. Additionally, consult the expert if you develop an oral infection.

For more information, contact a local dental clinic.