Tooth Extractions: What They Are, Why They Are Performed, and Aftercare Tips

Tooth extractions are not something people look forward to. Our teeth were meant to serve us for a lifetime; however, we are not in an ideal world, and there comes a time when you may need our dentist in Edison, NJ, to perform a dental extraction.

Dental extractions are performed when there is no other choice, especially when your oral health is at risk. The top priority of our dentist in Edison, NJ, is to preserve your natural teeth in the best ways possible.

Let’s see why our oral surgeon near you may deem tooth extractions a necessity.

What Are Tooth Extractions?

Tooth extractions are a standard dental procedure to remove whole or damaged teeth. You will not experience pain during the process since it is performed after anesthesia has been administered.

Why Are Tooth Extractions Performed?

During your initial visit, our dentist in Edison, NJ, will perform a thorough examination to check the state of your teeth. If recommended, then our dentist in Edison, NJ, will schedule you to undergo a tooth extraction.
Extractions are carried out when:

• You have a severe tooth infection where the tooth pulp is affected. Root canal therapy is the usual procedure, but the tooth has to be extracted if that is not an option.
• You have impacted teeth, meaning that your teeth have not erupted or have partially erupted – this is a common issue with third molars.
• You have periodontal disease that has affected the tissues and bone that hold the teeth in place. The disease can be reversed when caught early; if you don’t seek treatment, it spreads to the bones and is not reversible.
• Your teeth have been subjected to trauma and are severely damaged.
• Your teeth are hindering other permanent teeth from coming in.
• You need orthodontic treatment, and there is overcrowding.

Broken Tooth Extraction Procedure

Our oral surgeon near you will begin by taking X-rays of your affected teeth. X-rays are critical since it helps our dentist determine which type of extraction will be ideal for your case. You might undergo any of the two types of procedures:

• Simple Extraction

When our dentist suggests a simple extraction, the removed tooth is visible above the gum line. Local anesthesia will be administered close to the affected tooth to ensure that you don’t feel pain during the procedure. However, you can expect to feel some movement and pressure on the site.

If you have dental anxiety, some treatments can help calm your nerves about the procedure. Our dentist will use the latest technology to remove the affected tooth.

• Surgical Extraction

Surgical extractions are a bit more involved. The procedure is carried out when the affected tooth is not visible above the gum line; this generally means that the tooth is impacted. It is also the ideal choice when part of your tooth has broken off, and the rest of the tooth lies under the gums.

Anesthesia will still be administered. Then, our dentist will create space for removing the affected tooth. The tooth will be extracted once our dentist gains access to it.

The Dos and Don’ts After Tooth Extraction

Taking care of the extraction site is essential since complications such as a dry socket may arise if the socket isn’t cared for. Check out these aftercare tips:
The Dos

• Remove the gauze after 30 minutes or an hour after the procedure
• Use icepacks
• Take it easy and avoid strenuous activities, especially 48 hours after the procedure.
• Take your medication
• Follow diet restrictions
• Maintain your oral hygiene

The Don’ts

• Don’t smoke for at least 48 hours post-extraction
• Don’t spit within 24 hours after the procedure.
• Refrain from drinking alcohol
• Don’t disturb the extraction site by poking it with your tongue, toothpick, or finger.
• Avoid using straws, which can dislodge the clot.

Contact us at KK Dental in Edison to schedule an appointment if you need a tooth extraction.