Tooth extractions aren’t as scary as they seem; in fact, this particular procedure is more common than most people may realize. As a restorative dentistry technique, you’ll be able to regain control of your oral hygiene, eat what you love, and laugh with friends in no time at all.
If you’re someone who is looking to gather more information about tooth extractions in North Edmonton, get in touch with our dental practice today! We’re here to assist you with all your oral health needs.
What is a Tooth Extraction?
Tooth extraction is exactly what it sounds like: it’s the process of removing a tooth from your mouth to get your oral health back to normal.
Simple and surgical extractions are the two main types of tooth extractions. A simple extraction is non-invasive, meaning that no surgical measures are needed. This treatment is performed on a tooth that has fully erupted in your mouth. On the other hand, a surgical or complex extraction refers to taking out a tooth that has only partially come in or not at all. Having your wisdom teeth taken out is the most well-known example of surgical extraction.
This is a safe, straightforward procedure that anyone can receive. Be sure to schedule a one-on-one consultation with a dentist near you before you have any type of dental work done. They will be able to tell you whether you’re a suitable candidate for either treatment or if an alternative would be more effective for your unique case.
The Tooth Extraction Process
When your dentist has given you the green light for this treatment, you’ll need to come back for a subsequent appointment to have it done.
Your first appointment entails a thorough evaluation of your oral cavity, specifically regarding the area where the extraction will take place, and a series of digital x-rays. By doing this, your dentist is can piece together an accurate image of the health of your teeth and gums. Local anesthesia will be provided to you to ensure that you’re comfortable while your dentist works.
In the case of a simple extraction, a pair of dental forceps will be used to loosen the tooth, rocking it back and forth in its socket before being pulled out completely. If you’re receiving a surgical extraction, an incision needs to be made into your gums to access your entire tooth. Once the debris has been cleared away, the forceps will also be used here to take out your tooth.
The site will be stitched shut and you’ll be able to go. Your dentist in North Edmonton will typically prescribe Advil or Tylenol to help you manage any pain.
Eating After a Tooth Extraction
In the hours and days following your tooth extraction, you’ll need to take some extra precautions to make sure that your mouth properly heals. This is especially important regarding meals.
You won’t be able to consume anything in the hours immediately after your appointment is over to allow your mouth to start to recover.
Within the first 24 hours of your treatment, it’s best to avoid eating foods that require chewing. Soft foods you can slurp like yogurt, soup, pudding, or oatmeal are best. Stay away from straws too; the suction that’s required to use them can dislodge the blood clot that forms after your treatment and cause your mouth to start bleeding.
The next day, you can resume eating foods that demand a bit of chewing. Within three days, you can start getting back to your normal diet, but limit the amount of spicy, acidic, sticky, and too-crunchy foods. This will help your gums heal quicker and eliminate any unnecessary stress or pain regarding your jaw.
Two weeks later, you should be able to eat as you normally would since your mouth will be properly healed by this time. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t be afraid to contact your dentist for assistance or clarification.
Interested in tooth extractions near you? At Griesbach Dental, our skilled team of dentists is here to collaborate with you however we can order to repair your smile. Visit our website, call, or come in and see us kick off your dental journey! We look forward to working with you soon!