Tooth extraction may sound like a terrifying operation, but it’s not. The only reason you may be scared is that you don’t know how it works. Your dentist will recommend tooth extraction if you have a severe injury, suffer from certain diseases, or if you have issues with the growth of your teeth. If you want to have the best experience, you have to know what to expect during the procedure, preparations needed and recovery guidelines. Take a closer look at tooth extraction.
Reasons for Tooth Pulling
There are many reasons why a tooth may be extracted; some of these include:
- Some teeth are blocking others from growing.
- Your baby teeth take longer to off, therefore preventing permanent teeth from growing in their rightful place.
- Infection, if your tooth is badly damaged from tooth decay, and not even antibiotics or a root canal can cure it.
- A crowded mouth, your dentist will need to create space for orthodontia.
- Extraction is the only solution to a severely decayed tooth.
Before tooth extraction, our dental expert will take an x-ray of your teeth. This will help him understand the condition of your teeth, so he’ll be able to know what exactly needs to be done. He will also ask you relevant questions necessary for the success of the procedure. For example; He may ask about your medical history and also ask you about your current medication if any. This information is important because it helps the dentist know if your medication counteracts with anesthesia. Don’t shy away; tell your specialist the truth if you suffer from any of these medical conditions:
- Diabetes
- Hypertension
- Congenital Heart disease
- Thyroid disease
- Liver disease
- Adrenal disease
- Artificial joint
- Impaired immune system
- Artificial joint
In case you suffer from a condition that’s missing from the above list, kindly ask your dentist if it could affect your dental procedure.
Read more: Why Tooth Extractions Are Sometimes Necessary
When Are Antibiotics Prescribed to patients?
Your dental professional will prescribe antibiotics to ensure that the procedure goes well when:
- You have a weak immune system.
- The expected length of the surgery will take longer than usual.
- You have a complicated medical condition that could risk the process from going out smoothly.
Things to Avoid Before the Procedure
- Do not smoke before the extraction.
- If you have a cold, make sure you first get healed before your teeth can be extracted.
- Do not drive, have a friend or relative drive you home in case you’re getting general anesthesia.
- If you have nausea or if you vomit the night before, let your dentist know as it may require different anesthesia. In fact, your specialist may need to reschedule until the issue has been resolved.
- Do not eat or drink before the procedure for at least 6 hours if you’re receiving intravenous anesthesia.
In case of any problem after your procedure, do not hesitate to talk to your oral surgeon immediately. Inform your oral surgeon if:
- You experience excessive bleeding
- You get pain medication issues.
- You feel numbness in the mouth after 48 hours
- You get swelling that lasts for more than four days.
Dental Services
Sources:
- Napenas, J. (2015). Blood thinners and dental care.
- Richards, W., et al. (2005). Reasons for tooth extraction in four general dental practices in South Wales. https://www.nature.com/articles/4812119