Tooth extractions can be defined as the removal of a tooth from its bone socket. The dentist is always trying to save the tooth, but could not be in a situation where a tooth is extracted.

 

Generally, when a tooth or tooth loss caused by damage to tooth decay dentist trying to fix a tooth by different means-such as the filling, crown repair, etc. However, there are times when a tooth is damaged, so it can not be repaired, and in these circumstances has no choice as distinguished from a tooth. This is the most common cause of tooth extraction. Also, many diseases and medications require the extraction of a tooth, because it weakens the immune system and cause infection of the tooth. These are anti-cancer agents, tooth decay, gum disease, teeth, in addition, a broken tooth, organ transplantation, orthodontic treatment, radiotherapy, and wisdom teeth.

 

However, in some cases a tooth extraction is necessary. The reasons why a dentist might recommend one or more tooth extractions include the following :

 

A tooth extraction might be indicated if repairing a damaged tooth is not practical, such as in cases of : 

• Severe Tooth Decay. If a tooth is so badly damaged by tooth decay , that the dentist is unable to restore it using a filling, crown or other treatment, the tooth has to be extracted. Dental caries is the main reason for teeth extractions.
• Periodontal disease. Deep periodontal pockets and extensive loss of jawbone and gum tissues because of periodontal disease, result in a loose non viable tooth and to tooth extraction. Tooth extraction due to bone loss caused by periodontal disease is the most frequent cause of tooth extractions for people over 40 years of age.
• Tooth abscess / Failed Root Canal. An infected or abscessed tooth requires a root canal treatment to stop the infection. A small percentage (5%) of root canal treatments fail and a tooth extraction may be needed.
• Fractured / cracked teeth or roots. A severe fracture on a tooth’s crown that can not be treated with root canal treatment, or a fractured root that can not be treated by apicoectomy are also reasons for a small part of tooth extractions.
• Impacted teeth / Wisdom teeth. Impacted are called the teeth that do not erupt properly to their normal position or they do not erupt at all above the gums. Pericoronitis is a painful condition caused by impacted teeth. Wisdom teeth have the highest possibility to become impacted. But even if not impacted, wisdom teeth are a frequent source of dental problems because of the difficulty to clean them properly. Some dentists suggest the preventive wisdom teeth extraction, before they cause any problems.

 

 Healthy teeth may also be subject of tooth extraction for reasons like :

• Orthodontic treatment. Teeth crowding is a common cause of crooked teeth that require orthodontic treatment. Some teeth may have to be extracted before placing braces in order to create space for the rest of the teeth to move into a straighter position. Malpositioned or non-functional teeth may need to be extracted. Teeth extractions for braces are common in teens.
• Malpositioned teeth in children, primary or permanent, that block other teeth from erupting properly.
• Preparation for a complete denture. If a person’s remaining teeth are not strong enough to support a partial denture, a full denture is the only alternative. The teeth have to be removed by tooth extraction.

Other non dental related reasons include :

• Economic reasons. Unfortunately it is not easy for everybody to afford the cost of a root canal, periodontal or other treatment that is needed to save a tooth. So, they have to choose the tooth extraction as the least expensive ‘treatment’.
• Radiation therapy. Head and neck cancer patients may need to have some teeth extracted, as they could be obstacles to radiation delivery at the treatment area.
• Risk of infection. Any teeth with a high risk of infection may need to be extracted before any therapy that weakens the immune system (e.g., chemotherapy, immunosuppression for organ transplant) in order to prevent complications.

 

Here are some important guidelines to follow after tooth extraction:

1. Don’t rinse your mouth after the tooth extraction, even though it’s bloody. Just swallow the saliva and blood. The reason is because if you rinse your mouth, you will rinse off the anaesthetic and the pain will be very very bad after that. Most people suffered after pain extraction because they quickly rinse and clean their mouth after tooth extraction. It has been almost 4 hours since I extracted my molar and I’ve not taken any water or rinse my mouth- the pain is tolerable.
2. Avoid taking hot meals or drinks on the day after the extraction- because hot meals will improve the circulation. With improved circulation, the pain gets worst.
3. Avoid being active, doing chores, being out in the sun because again, all this warms up your body and improve the circulation. So it makes it more painful.
4. Take cool water and use a straw to sip your drink slowly- try to make the fluid go straight to your throat. You probably guessed it so that it does not wash off the anaesthetic.
5. Try to stay away from noisy places as ear ache/headaches as referred pain may occur.

 

Remember, dental extractions are common and often necessary to maintain good oral hygiene.  Review this guide before an extraction and be sure consult with your dentist to get all your questions answered to ease the procedure.  Know what to expect before, during and after to minimize the inconvenience to you.

 

Ivy Rose Dentistry

2170 Matlock Rd, #100
Mansfield, TX 76063
Phone: 817.259.1365
Email: [email protected]

1024 West Mitchell St.
Arlington, TX 76013
Phone: 817.259.1364
Email: [email protected]