How Do Tooth Extractions Work

The importance of regular visits to the dentist has become emphasized countless times. A large part of the population has received and accepted the message. One NCHS survey showed that 63% of adults in the US saw their dentists in 2020. But millions are still wary about seeing their dentist.

You might be feeling that same wariness when faced with a tooth extraction. The procedure is a simple one at its core. But it’s still nerve-wracking and daunting. More information on the process could help calm your nerves. This short guide will tell you what to expect and how to prepare for it.

Understanding Tooth Extraction

A tooth extraction is a standard dental procedure. The dentist will remove a tooth from the gum socket during the process. An oral surgeon or a periodontist can also do teeth extractions.

A tooth extraction procedure takes place in a dental clinic. It can also happen in a hospital dental office. The dentist can remove one or more teeth. It will depend on the state of your teeth and the dentist’s recommendation. There’s no limit to how many teeth can become extracted in one day. But dentists will only do this if there is no other option.

Top Reasons for Dental Extractions

Dentists can still repair damaged or broken teeth. They can add a filling or crown. Dental treatments like veneers are also done. Extractions are only done for severe tooth damages. There are often other reasons your dentist will insist on having a tooth pulled:

Crowding: This is when all your teeth can’t fit within your jaw. Crowding happens when there’s a discrepancy in tooth size and jaw size. The result is a misalignment in the row of your teeth. An extraction can help ease crowding and align teeth.

Tooth Disease: It’s a terrible image but your teeth can die. This happens when there’s too much tooth decay or periodontal disease. But dentists will try to save your teeth and try a root canal or crown restoration first. They’ll only do an extraction if they can’t save the tooth.

Trauma: Injuries to the teeth, gums, and alveolar bone could result in tooth extraction.

How Do Tooth Extractions Work?

Dentists will do everything they can to save your teeth. Extractions are the last resort. It’s only done if the tooth is causing pain or can’t be fixed. The procedure will depend on the type of extraction. But the steps are pretty straightforward.

Start numbing the tooth. Tooth extractions are a painless procedure. The dentist will sedate the patient before the procedure. You can get a local anesthetic or nitrous oxide. A patient can also opt for IV sedation.

Tooth removal starts. Your dentist will start by enlarging the tooth’s socket. They’ll stretch the ligament. This allows for more movement in the tooth. They’ll rock the tooth forwards and back. Once there’s enough give in the socket, the dentist will pull out the tooth. You shouldn’t feel any pain while this is happening. But you might feel some pressure.

Close the socket. The dentist will remove any unnecessary tissue. They’ll then compress the socket. The dentist can also stitch the socket close. They’ll then wash out the space before applying gauze. This will ensure the area remains clean.

Let the effects of the sedation fade. You can’t leave immediately after the extraction is done. Your dentist will wait for the anesthesia to subside. This can be as short as 15 minutes. Some sedation takes an hour to fade.

Working Towards Healthier Teeth

Want strong and healthy teeth? You need the help of the Dentistry of Orlando. Our company is one of the best dental clinics in Orlando, Florida. We have the skills and experience you need. We also use the latest technology. We do tooth extractions, dental cleanings, and more. You can call us at our Avalon office at (407) 249-9292 or at our Hansel office at (407) 851-5555. You can also send us a message at avalon@dentistryoforlando.com.