Extractions
At Kenmore Family Dental, we do everything we can to save your tooth from extraction, but the truth is that sometimes removing a troubled tooth is the best course of treatment. A tooth might be beyond repair because of decay or trauma. Overcrowding might be an issue, and there isn’t room for the tooth, so your other teeth are at risk because of it. If you have an impacted tooth—not erupted properly
—you may need an extraction.
Whatever the reason for the extraction, rest assured you will be in good hands with Dr Chris Plackner at our surgery.
When You Might Need a Tooth Extraction
Although pulling a tooth is usually a last resort treatment, there are some situations where it is warranted.
- Your tooth may be broken at the gumline so we cannot repair it.
- If your teeth are loose because of advanced gum disease, extraction may be needed.
- When teeth are overcrowded, removing a tooth can ease the situation and protect your other healthy teeth.
- If you have suffered trauma and the affected tooth cannot be repaired.
- A root canal was unsuccessful, so we will need to remove the infected tooth.
- Wisdom teeth usually don’t have room to erupt into the proper position, so extraction is often the best course of action
The Tooth Extraction Process
Our team assures you that patient comfort is our priority. We will use the appropriate level of anaesthetic, so you will find the procedure to be as pain-free as possible. We plan carefully beforehand, so the process is efficient, and recovery is quick.
A simple extraction usually means stitches are not required because it involves teeth that are above the gumline. Surgical removal usually means stitches are needed as part of the healing process because it involves teeth that have not fully erupted. Impacted teeth and partially impacted teeth below the gumline can cause pain and are at a higher risk of developing infection; extraction is sometimes the best option to protect your oral health.
Self-Care After Extraction
Proper care for the extraction site after the procedure is crucial to healing as quickly as possible. Most people report mild discomfort after the extraction, so non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) or paracetamol are usually enough to keep people comfortable. If you have swelling from the procedure, icing your check above the area can help.
Other tips for promoting healing after extraction:
- Keep the extraction site clean and avoid chewing on that side of the mouth until the area has healed. Eat only soft foods at first.
- To avoid a painful condition known as 'dry socket,' you should not smoke or use a straw for several days following the procedure. The sucking motion might dislodge the blood clot forming at the site.
- Avoid drinking very hot or cold beverages.
- Rest for a day or two before returning to your normal routine.
If you run into problems or if you are experiencing pain, you can give our dental clinic a call.
We invite you to contact Kenmore Family Dental where we always strive for gentle, painless tooth extractions. Our team endeavours take good care of you from start to finish.
