Tooth extraction may be necessary in cases such as tooth decay, tooth root infection, excessive damage or weakening of the bone structure around the tooth. In some cases during
braces treatment for misaligned teeth, tooth extraction may be necessary. The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia.
How is Tooth Extraction Performed?
Tooth extraction is a procedure performed by dentists. Various techniques are used, including surgical and non-surgical tooth extraction. The method of extracting the tooth depends on the condition of the tooth.
Before the procedure, the mouth and gums are numbed with local anesthesia. The dentist uses an instrument to open the gums and tries to remove the tooth by shaking it. After the tooth is removed, any bleeding in the mouth is stopped and sterilized.
In some cases, the dentist makes a cut to remove the tooth because some teeth may be large and the roots of teeth may have a complex structure that requires cutting to remove them.
Any pain and discomfort felt during the procedure are minimized with local anesthesia. Additionally, painkillers and other medications may be prescribed after the procedure.
When is Tooth Extraction Necessary?
Tooth extraction may be necessary in the following cases:
- Excessive damage: Severely damaged teeth may need to be completely removed.
- Tooth decay: In advanced cases of decay, teeth may need to be completely extracted.
- Tooth root infections: Untreatable tooth root infections may require tooth extraction.
- Misalignment of teeth: In some cases during orthodontic treatment, teeth may need to be extracted to correct misalignment.
- The eruption of teeth: In some cases, teeth may need to be extracted to ensure proper positioning during eruption.
- Gum diseases: Advanced periodontal disease may require tooth extraction.
What Should be Considered After a Dental Surgical Procedure?
After a tooth extraction, the following should be considered:
- Bite the tampon in your mouth for 30 minutes. Do not replace the tampon with non-sterile materials such as cotton or napkins after removing it.
- It is forbidden to spit, rinse the mouth during the day of the surgical procedure.If you spit, your bleeding will continue.
- Nothing should be eaten for about 2-3 hours after the procedure. If numbness persists, wait for it to subside. Warm foods and drinks should be preferred afterwards and hot, cold and acidic foods and drinks should be avoided. The surgical side should not be used while eating.
- Smoking and drinking alcohol should be avoided for 48 hours after the tooth extraction. Smoking can cause the clot to break and the wound to become infected.
- If there is pain, a medication other than aspirin should be preferred. Consulting a doctor is recommended for this matter. If you have a prescription, especially antibiotics, they should be used regularly.
- The extraction site must be kept clean. Food debris should be prevented from getting inside the wound. Even if there are stitches after the surgical procedure, the area should be gently brushed with a soft toothbrush 24 hours later. Gargling with warm salt water is also recommended.
- Mild bleeding that lasts 6-25 hours as a slight leakage is considered normal. However, if there is excessive bleeding or this time period is exceeded or if there is prolonged pain or swelling, you should definitely see a dentist.
- Ice application after the surgical procedure will reduce bruising and swelling on the skin. You should apply ice to the relevant area for 5-minute intervals as much as possible during the first 2 days. Ice should not be applied from the 3rd day onwards.
What Can Be Done to Prevent Tooth Extraction?
To prevent tooth extraction, the following tips can be taken into consideration:
- Regular brushing and flossing of teeth: Regular brushing and flossing of teeth can help prevent tooth decay and gum disease.
- Regular dental check-ups: Regular dental check-ups are important to monitor dental and gum health and detect problems early.
- Healthy diet: A healthy diet contributes to dental health. Reducing the consumption of sugary and acidic foods can help prevent tooth decay.
- Regular cleaning of teeth: Regular cleaning of teeth helps to maintain healthy teeth.
- Protecting teeth: Measures such as using a mouthguard during sports activities should be taken to protect teeth.
Routine dental check-ups can help maintain oral and dental health. Regular check-ups are also essential for early detection of existing problems. Therefore, dental appointments should not be neglected.
