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PUBLISHED ON 22/02/23
The prospect of having teeth pulled can strike fear in anyone – not just those afraid of the dentist. However, for most, having their teeth extracted is a procedure they’ll have to go through at one time or another. Find out the whos, whats, whens and whys around tooth extraction and what to do before, during and after the dental procedure.
Tooth extraction is the process of removing teeth from the gum sockets. A dentist, oral surgeon or periodontist typically performs the procedure.
There are many reasons why teeth need to be removed. Patients may need to undergo tooth extractions for severe gum disease, deep infections, dental trauma, issues with their wisdom teeth, tooth decay or overcrowding – among other reasons.
Visit us at Maidstone Dental for your bi-yearly check-up to help prevent the need for tooth extractions.
Wisdom tooth extractions are generally more common and more complicated than other teeth extractions. This is often because wisdom teeth can become impacted, as your mouth may not have room for them. Additionally, wisdom teeth can grow at the wrong angle and press against other molars, causing misalignments. Moreover, as wisdom teeth grow at the back of your mouth, they are more likely to experience cavities and tooth decay.
Before the procedure, you must notify us of any current or future medications and existing medical conditions. This is to ensure that the entire procedure, including the administration of any anaesthetic, is entirely safe.
Additionally, you might be prescribed antibiotics leading up to the procedure if the surgery is expected to be long or if you have an infection or weakened immune system or for some specific medical conditions.
You should eat and drink properly before the extraction because you may not be able to eat for 2 hours after the extraction. You will also need the energy to cope with the procedure.
But don’t worry; we’ll review this process with you during your appointment.
Typically, there are two types of tooth extractions – a simple extraction or a surgical extraction.
Simple extractions often involve local anaesthetic to numb the area around the tooth and stop you from feeling pain during the procedure. However, with a local anaesthetic, you will still feel pressure on the area. Our dentists then use a combination of tools, such as an elevator and forceps, to loosen and remove your tooth.
Surgical extractions involve local and intravenous anaesthesia; you will likely be unconscious during the procedure. Our highly trained dentists will then make a small incision in your gum and section the tooth to remove it. Complicated procedures may require bone around the tooth to be removed. After removing your tooth, you may receive stitches to close the cut.
After the procedure, you may experience some light bleeding and pain where the tooth was extracted. For complicated surgical extractions, we may prescribe a pain-relief medication or recommend an over-the-counter medicine. We ask that you follow the instructions on the medication closely. We also recommend an ice pack for on cheek to reduce any swelling.
Resting and avoiding physical sports, smoking, drinking and straws for at least 24 hours after surgery is recommended. We may require someone to drive you home, as you can feel a little disoriented after undergoing anaesthesia.
Your extraction socket can take up to 3 months to completely heal. However, most of the pain and discomfort will improve after 2 days or up to 2 weeks for more complicated extraction. We recommend eating soft foods and chew on the unaffected side until the wound heals. You’ll find more information and ideas on what to eat after a tooth extraction here.
Contact us if you experience ongoing severe pain, excessive bleeding or fevers during healing.
There are a few risks involved with teeth extractions. These include severe bleeding, fevers, chills, infections, nausea, vomiting, chest pain, swelling, blood clots, nerve damage and damage to adjacent teeth and restorations. But rest assured, our highly experienced team will ensure that you are informed and will do our best to prevent further risks and harm to you or your loved ones.
When you come in for your appointment and identify an issue, we will always run through all the options to find the one best suited to you.
The costs of any procedures can vary on a case-by-case basis. We will discuss costs, payment options and plans before you undergo any procedures. At Maidstone Dental, we always prioritise your oral health. We want to ensure you receive any treatments you need and will work with you to ensure that happens.
Yes. Tooth extractions are among some of the most common dental procedures children will have to undergo. We often recommend that children have teeth extracted when they are too damaged or diseased to repair. Our dentists will also recommend extractions when your child’s mouth is overcrowded, as this can impact other teeth erupting or the alignment of their teeth – this is particularly true for children with braces in their future. Moreover, it’s vital that if your child complains about tooth pain, you contact us immediately so our dentists can assess the situation.
Teeth extractions can disrupt your child’s everyday routine. However, we usually predict if your child would need a tooth extraction at our bi-yearly check-ups. So, make sure not to leave procedures to the last minute, book a check-up and schedule any procedures during the school holidays before simple procedures turn into dental emergencies.
Having your tooth extracted can be a scary prospect. At Maidstone Dental, we always try to make the procedure as painless as possible. Prevent dental emergencies by booking regular check-ups and scheduling procedures when they suit you and your family, such as during school holidays.
To book an appointment, click here.
If you’ve already had your procedure or are preparing for a tooth extraction, watch our video on what to eat after surgery.
