While we should try to preserve our permanent teeth, it is sometimes necessary to have them professionally removed for the sake of our oral health. Teeth that have suffered extensive decay or trauma and impacted teeth are commonly removed to prevent further dental complications. A person may also require extraction to correct overcrowding in preparation for orthodontic treatments. At Robert E. Anderson, D.D.S. in Placerville, California, we perform comfortable, simple, and surgical extractions to restore your oral health.
Reasons to Have a Tooth Removed
Many everyday situations would require tooth removal, including:
- Wisdom teeth that are not erupting appropriately
- Teeth suffering from severe decay
- Teeth that cannot be salvaged with a root canal
- Making space for other teeth in your mouth
Extraction Procedure
Preparation
Before the tooth extraction procedure begins, our dentist Dr. Anderson will take an X-ray of the area to help plan the best method to remove the tooth. Just before the process, we will administer an anesthetic to numb the treatment site, which will ensure that the treatment is comfortable and smooth.
Simple Tooth Extraction
A simple extraction is suitable when the tooth is easily visible in the mouth. Dr. Anderson will use forceps to gently wriggle the tooth back and forth until it is loosened before it is removed.
Surgical Extraction
Surgical extraction may be performed if the tooth is impacted, has broken off at the gum line, or is hidden under the gums. During this surgery, Dr. Anderson will make a small incision on the gums to expose the affected tooth. We will then use forceps to loosen the tooth and pull it from the gums. In some cases, the tooth may be firmly impacted, requiring it to be broken into smaller pieces before removing it. We may seal the incision with dissolvable stitches.
Tooth Extraction Recovery
If you receive general anesthesia, you cannot drive and need a companion to take you back home. You can expect minor bleeding after extraction surgery, and you will need to change your gauze once it becomes soaked. For a few days after tooth extraction, you should limit your intake to soft foods and liquids. It would help if you also refrain from smoking tobacco and drinking alcohol. If you experience prolonged bleeding for over twenty-four hours, you must call our office immediately. After your extraction, you will need to get plenty of rest. Lying down with your head raised will help minimize swelling and bleeding. You can take antibiotics and painkillers to relieve discomfort and hasten the healing process. Additionally, we may provide you with a cleaning solution to keep the extraction area clean while it heals.
If you have any queries or concerns regarding tooth extractions, visit our office, Robert E. Anderson, D.D.S., at 4300 Golden Center Dr, Suite G, in Placerville, CA 95667. You can also reach us at (530) 622-9068.
