What is Tooth Extraction?
A dental procedure referred to as a tooth extraction involves removing a tooth from its socket in the jawbone. Although it can seem frightening, tooth extractions are very routine and often recommended to preserve dental health.
Our dentist in Chilliwack will carefully inspect your tooth and the tissues around it before performing the extraction. To determine where the tooth is and whether there are any potential issues, they could conduct an x-ray. They will decide on the most effective extraction procedure based on the outcome.
When is Tooth Extraction Necessary?
Severe Tooth Decay
Extensive dental decay is one of the main causes of tooth extractions. When a tooth is significantly decaying, the pulp, the tooth’s deepest layer, may have been affected. Untreated infections can cause terrible pain, abscesses, and more problems with oral health. To prevent the condition from spreading to nearby tissues or other teeth in such situations, the decaying tooth needs to be removed.
Advanced Gum Disease
Periodontal disease, sometimes referred to as gum disease, is a bacterial infection that affects the gums and tissues that support the teeth. If gum disease is not treated, it can proceed to a point where the supporting structures are severely damaged. Sometimes tooth extractions are required to remove teeth that have grown loose or to get rid of infection pockets that are resistant to conventional treatments.
Tooth Crowding
Tooth extractions are often carried out as a part of orthodontic treatment. When there is not enough room in the mouth for all the teeth to fit correctly, one or more teeth need to be removed. Orthodontic procedures like braces or aligners can successfully straighten the teeth by reducing crowding, enhancing both appearance and function.
Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Third molars, or wisdom teeth, often appear between the ages of 17 and 25. However, these teeth usually become impacted due to a lack of room or improper alignment, which causes them to partly erupt or grow at an angle. Wisdom teeth that have been impacted can cause several issues, such as pain, infection, damage to the nearby teeth, and jaw discomfort. Tooth extraction is often recommended in these situations to alleviate the symptoms and prevent subsequent complications.
Trauma or Fracture
A tooth may need to be extracted if it suffered significant damage or has extensive fractures. Tooth extractions in Chilliwack could be the best course of action if the tooth cannot be saved using restorative techniques like dental bonding or root canal treatment. It is essential to remove a damaged tooth in order to avoid infection, reduce discomfort, and improve oral health.
Recovery and Aftercare
It is common to feel some pain, swelling, and minor bleeding following the extraction. For post-extraction care, your dentist will provide you with instructions that may include:
- Applying ice packs to reduce swelling.
- Gently rinsing your mouth with salt water to keep the extraction site clean.
- Avoiding strenuous activities and sticking to soft foods for a few days.
- Taking pain medications as prescribed.
- Avoid smoking, using straws, and spitting forcefully, as these activities can dislodge the blood clot and delay healing.
When a tooth cannot be preserved or poses a risk to oral health, tooth extraction is recommended. It is required to preserve oral health and prevent more problems, whether it’s because of decay, gum disease, impacted wisdom teeth, crowding, or dental trauma. If you are recommended for tooth extraction, consult with a dentist near you to address any concerns and ensure a comfortable and successful procedure.
Book Your Consultation Today
Visit Eagle Landing Dental if you experience any of the above-mentioned conditions to ensure prompt and quality dental care. We have a team of experts who offer tooth extractions near you and other services to preserve your oral health.