Many people experience anxiety around the thought of a tooth extraction. After all, our teeth have been with us for a long time, and the thought of losing one, or more, can be quite scary. However, tooth extractions are one of the most common dental treatments for decayed teeth or for spacing problems in the mouth. Our office has performed countless extraction treatments and can put your mind at ease before, during, and after the treatment.
While all cases vary, we typically start by numbing the teeth and surrounding nerves and bone. Then we expand the socket around the tooth to make the extraction easier. We apply the right amount of pressure and use a tool called a forceps and dental elevator to help us expand the area around the tooth. You’ll feel a little pressure around the tooth and might hear a little cracking as we rock the tooth back and forth to pull it out. After the extraction procedure is complete, we’ll place a gauze pad in the socket over where the blood clot will form to protect the clot from breaking open. We may ask you to make a follow-up appointment or two after the extraction to ensure that everything is healing properly.
Watch the video below to learn what the American Dental Association has to say in regards to the process of tooth extraction:
Transcript:
“Gum recession is a serious condition that needs the close supervision of a dental professional. The gums protect the sensitive roots of teeth. When the gums recede, complications can arise, such as sensitivity to hot and cold and root cavities. This may be due to irregular tooth position, trauma, heredity, or periodontal disease. If gum recession is ignored, then continued recession can be expected and tooth loss is possible. Treatments include special cleaning called scaling and root planing and surgery known as gum grafting. Gum grafting helps cover exposed roots, reduce the risk of further recession, and enhance the appearance of the gum line. Brush twice a day, floss once a day, and schedule regular dental checkups. Prevention is the key to stopping gum recession.”
If you have any questions about your dental health or if you would like to schedule a free consultation, please contact our team or make an appointment. Our incredible staff will give you the best dental care possible.