How Dentist Remove a Tooth?
Most people fear to have their teeth removed. However, it is not as bad as most people picture it, and the improvements in technology have made it faster and virtually painless. So, how does a dentist extract a tooth?
Here is what to look forward to next time that you visit a dentist to have your tooth extracted.
First, Consultation
Several factors may warrant the removal of a tooth. As such, it is essential that the dentist first gets a clear understanding of precisely what is ailing you before getting down to work.
To this end, the first step involves consultation and a brief examination. The dentist will ask you some questions necessary to the process’ success – these will mostly center on the cause of the problem and your medical history as some ailments or medications may affect the procedure. The dentist may schedule another appointment for the extraction or get down to it if the problem is moderate.
The Extraction Process
Tooth extraction involves more than just pulling the tooth out. It is a procedure that includes the following steps:
- Numbing
The dentist will start by giving you an anesthetic to numb your nerves and save you the intense pain of tooth extraction. If there is only one tooth to be extracted, then the doctor will inject the gum holding that particular tooth with a dose of anesthetic. However, if there are several teeth to be removed, then the dentist will give you a general anesthetic that will numb your whole body and induce you to a deep sleep.
The anesthetics used today are much more efficient compared to the past – in fact, they are so effective that you will barely feel the pain. They are also somewhat intoxicating, and they often bring out the funny side in most patients.
- Extraction
Once the anesthetic has kicked in, the dentist will proceed to remove the tooth. There are two primary types of tooth extraction:
- Simple Extraction
If the tooth that is being extracted is intact, then a simple extraction procedure will do. During this procedure, the dentist uses a tool called an elevator to loosen the tooth from the gum, thus making it easier to remove. Once the tooth is loose, the dentist uses merely forceps to hold it and pull it out.
A simple extraction is quick and straightforward, and any general dentist can do it.
- Surgical Extraction
A surgical extraction is used for complicated cases. It is mostly used if the tooth to be extracted has broken off at the gum or if it has not fully emerged out of the gums and into the mouth.
A surgical extraction mostly involves making a small incision in the gum holding the tooth slated for removal – this offers easier access to the tooth. In extreme cases, the dentist may also need to remove some of the bone holding the tooth especially if it is lodged deep into the gums. Additionally, if the tooth proves challenging to extract, then the dentist may be required to cut it in half and extract it in parts.
Some general dentists are qualified to perform surgical extractions, but it is safer to go to an oral surgeon to avoid any complications.
Following Up
Your mouth will take some time to recover from the tooth extraction, and you will be primarily responsible for the recovery process. As such, the following follow-up measures are recommended after leaving the dentist’s office:
- Bite a gauze
A wound in the mouth takes longer to heal as it cannot develop a scab as is the case with the skin. As such, your dentist will give you gauze to bite for about 30 minutes after the extraction. The dressing will ensure that the wound stays dry, and the pressure from the bite will enable the blood to clot hence beginning the healing process.
- Numb with ice
The anesthetic will eventually wear off, and this will give way to some pain and discomfort. To suppress this pain, merely place an ice pack over the aching area and leave it to rest for 10 to 20 minutes. The ice packs will also reduce the swelling.
- Rest
It is recommended to rest for at least 24 hours after leaving the dentist’s office. Your body will be fatigued from the extraction procedure, so it will need some rest to recuperate. Most patients tend to fall asleep after getting home, but if sleep is elusive then merely sit or lie down and occupy yourself with simple activities such as reading or watching.
- Rinse periodically
The wound will be prone to bacteria and other pathogens in the mouth. It is recommended to regularly rinse with a solution of warm water and salt to avoid infections. You should start cleaning after about 24 hours – additionally, be gentle to prevent dislodging the blood clot.
- Mind what you eat
You will have to contend with soft foods and beverages for some time after the tooth extraction – at least until you heal. You should also avoid unhealthy habits such as drinking alcohol and smoking as they derail the recovery process.