When a Tooth Must Go: Key Indicators for Extraction
Maintaining good oral health is essential for overall well-being, but sometimes, despite our best efforts, dental issues can arise that necessitate tooth removal. Though extraction is often viewed with apprehension, it can be crucial in preserving the health of your mouth and preventing further complications. Our Canton, MI, dentists are here to help you understand when and so your concerns are alleviated and you feel better prepared for the procedure.
Here are a few common scenarios that may lead our dentists to recommend this essential treatment, a quick rundown of the process, and aftercare tips.
Signs It’s Time to Remove a Tooth
Oftentimes, if you have a broken tooth or one that is damaged by decay, our dentists can make the repair with a tooth-colored filling, dental crown, or other similar treatment. When damage is too severe, however, those fixes are no longer an option and we may recommend extraction.
Tooth extraction might be best if:
- Trauma or injury has occurred
- Present tooth decay or infection exists
- There’s a need for orthodontic treatment
- You have advanced periodontal disease
- The tooth or tooth roots are fractured
- A tooth is impacted or malpositioned
Each patient is different. Before we move ahead with treatment, our dentists will fully assess your condition and determine if the tooth extraction procedure is indeed the correct path to pursue.
What You Can Expect for the Procedure
Prior to the tooth removal, our dentists will take a few X-rays of the tooth in question to observe its shape, length, and position. Information gathered from the X-rays will help our dentists determine if you need to be referred to an oral surgeon.
The will begin with the application of a local anesthetic to properly numb the area around your tooth. Once the area is numb, our dentists will employ the use of a tool called an elevator which helps loosen the tooth. Dental forceps will then be used to remove the tooth.
After removal, our dentists may need to close the area with a few stitches. We can discuss this stage with you beforehand so you understand how the stitches need to be cared for and when they’ll come out.
Recommended Aftercare Instructions
Practicing good oral hygiene after a tooth extraction is essential. You will need to keep the area clean to prevent any possible infection. Our dentists will provide you with dry gauze following the procedure that you will be expected to bite down on for 30-45 minutes to limit bleeding while clotting occurs.
It is also recommended that you avoid smoking, rinse your mouth thoroughly, and adequately brush the teeth next to the extraction site. There may be some discomfort after the procedure but over-the-counter pain medication or an ice pack should help relieve pain and swelling.
Still have questions? Call our Canton dental office and we’ll help you get the answers you need for a speedy .
Make an Appointment
Tooth extraction is not what everyone wants but unfortunately, there are times when it has to happen to restore your smile and our dentists in Canton, MI, only want the best for you. Call Hometown Dental today at (734) 667-4941 or contact us online to discuss further!