Tooth Extractions: Everything You Need to Know

What are Tooth Extractions?

They are procedures for permanently removing natural teeth from the jawbone. Dental Extraction In Braes Timbers Houston, TX, are only performed on a need basis. Therefore, a dentist near you will not be quick to recommend a tooth extraction unless you really need it to benefit your oral health.

What Factors Necessitate a Tooth Extraction?

If your dentist in Braes Timbers Houston, TX, recommends tooth extraction, it could be for any of the following reasons:

1. Severely decayed tooth – although dentists have established various treatment protocols to remedy tooth decay, they may not work for all patients. A severely decayed tooth is better off extracted, especially when the structural aspects are deeply compromised.
2. Overcrowded mouth – in orthodontic dentistry, dentists can recommend a tooth extraction to create extra space in the jawbone. This way, when you wear braces, there is ample room in your mouth for the rest of your natural teeth to align well.
3. Impacted teeth – are teeth that erupt improperly that they remain partially stuck underneath the gums. Impacted teeth cause many other oral problems, including crooked adjacent teeth, gum and jaw pain, and gaps between teeth. A dentist in Braes Timbers Houston, TX, can recommend a tooth extraction to remedy these problems.
4. Problematic wisdom teeth – are the last molars to erupt in an adult’s mouth. They can grow improperly, increasing the risk of infection in your oral cavity. If removing one problematic tooth can spare your oral cavity from infections, then your Sharpstown general dentist will recommend an extraction procedure.
5. Periodontal disease – is an infection of the gums. The advanced stage of periodontal disease is called periodontitis. You risk premature tooth loss if you delay treatment for such an infection. Your teeth may start shaking and shifting, eventually falling off. Therefore, dentists can recommend tooth extractions as a treatment option for patients with severe periodontal disease.

How Should I Prepare for a Tooth Extraction?

A tooth extraction procedure is an invasive treatment protocol that can take different approaches. A simple tooth extraction typically involves rocking a tooth back and forth until it loosens from the jawbone. However, not all teeth are easy to extract. Sometimes, our dental experts at Mi Casa Dental – Houston, TX, must perform surgery to remove a tooth. The dentist cuts open the gums, then removes the bone tissue underneath to access the target tooth. Further, dentists may need to break down the tooth into small pieces or easy extraction. Given the intricate nature of tooth extractions, preparing beforehand can help you remain calm during and after your treatment. Some tips to prepare for a tooth extraction procedure are:

1. Fast for about 12 hours before your treatment – ideally, you will be under sedation dentistry during your extraction surgery. Therefore, dentists recommend not eating anything for several hours before the procedure to avoid feeling nauseous or vomiting.
2. Share your medical history with your dentist – it provides crucial information that can impact the course of your treatment. If you have any allergies relative to a particular medicine, the dentist should know about it beforehand. Further, communicate any underlying health conditions or medication you are taking, especially blood thinners or heart-related issues.
3. Start antibiotics before the procedure – although it is not mandatory, it is necessary for some patients. The stakes are higher if you have a bad oral infection, or have an impaired immune system that warrants a higher-than-normal risk of infection. Further, you may need to take a pain reliever before your procedure. However, liaise with your dentist before taking any medicine so you do not misuse the drugs so that they become addictive.
4. Learn about post-surgery care – making necessary adjustments beforehand will help you feel more at ease after your treatment. Start shopping for soft foods to make them readily accessible after surgery, including yogurts, potatoes, and fruits to make smoothies. Also, take time off work since you need downtime to heal and recover without intense physical activities.
5. Bring some company – when undergoing any oral surgery, ensure you do not visit the dentist’s office alone. After your extraction procedure, you will need someone to drive you home, particularly if you will be under sedation dentistry.