Tooth Extractions Q&A
Why are extractions sometimes necessary?
Even though permanent teeth are made to last your lifetime, it doesn't always happen. For example, a tooth may need to be extracted because it's too cracked or chipped to repair. Decay, trauma, and lifestyle can all lead to needing a tooth pulled.
Dr. Ocharoen may recommend an extraction if you're dealing with one of the following situations:
- Risk of infection from a failed root canal
- Risk of infection during chemotherapy or an organ transplant
- Advanced periodontal (gum) disease
- Crowded or extra teeth
- No room for third molars (wisdom teeth)
What should I expect from an extraction procedure?
There are two types of extraction procedures: a simple extraction and a surgical extraction. When you can see the tooth inside your mouth, it’s called a simple extraction. In a simple extraction, the tooth is loosened with a small tool called an elevator, then taken out with dental forceps.
A surgical extraction is more involved. The tooth may have been broken off at your gum line, or it hasn’t yet come through the surface of your gums, as is typical with wisdom teeth. During a surgical extraction, Dr. Ocharoen makes a little cut into the gum to locate and take out the tooth in question. The affected tooth may need to be sectioned (cut into parts) so it can be more easily removed. Some bone may also need to be removed from around the tooth.
Dr. Ocharoen gives you a local anesthetic before both a surgical extraction and simple extraction, so you don’t feel any pain. If you’re having several teeth extracted at once, as is common with wisdom teeth extraction, she may give you a general anesthetic. You'll sleep and be pain-free throughout the whole procedure.
When will I be fully healed from a tooth extraction?
It depends on your individual situation and how many teeth you had extracted, but the initial healing period typically takes one to two weeks. New bone and gum tissue grow in the spaces where your teeth used to be. You may experience pain and discomfort or difficulty chewing as you heal, depending on the extent of your dental surgery.
Since each situation is different, it’s best to contact Sirinity Smiles and schedule a consultation with Dr. Ocharoen so you can learn about your options and any important follow-up treatments like dental implants or crowns.
Make an appointment online or call Sirinity Smiles today.