In cases of advanced gum disease and tooth decay, teeth may need to be extracted. Some patients may also develop impacted wisdom teeth, which can cause intense pain. This is alleviated by having them removed surgically. One area in which it is possible for dentists to specialise is oral surgery, an umbrella term for all dental procedures involving surgery, such as the extraction of teeth or wisdom teeth. It is always important to get the advice of a dental professional if you are worried about any of your teeth. Never attempt to pull out your own tooth at home as this could cause a more serious problem for you.
An extraction is a dental procedure in which a tooth is removed from its socket in the bone. This is commonly performed when a tooth is severely damaged or decayed and cannot be saved through other dental treatments.
There are several reasons why tooth extraction may be necessary. These include severe tooth decay, advanced gum disease, tooth infection, overcrowding of teeth, impacted wisdom teeth, or preparation for orthodontic treatment.
Oral surgery refers to any surgical procedure performed in the mouth. This can include tooth extractions, dental implant placement, removal of impacted teeth, treatment of oral diseases, and jaw surgery.
The extraction procedure itself is performed under local anesthesia to ensure your comfort. You may feel some pressure during the procedure, but you should not experience any pain. After the procedure, mild discomfort and swelling can occur, but your dentist will provide appropriate pain relief medications.
The duration of a tooth extraction can vary depending on the complexity of the case. Simple extractions may be completed in just a few minutes, while more complex cases involving impacted teeth or multiple extractions may take longer.
The recovery period can vary from person to person. Generally, it may take a few days to a week to recover fully. During this time, it is important to follow your dentist's post-operative instructions, including proper oral hygiene practices and avoiding certain foods that may irritate the extraction site.
In the initial days after an extraction, it is recommended to stick to soft foods to prevent any irritation or injury to the extraction site. As the healing progresses, you can gradually introduce solid foods back into your diet.
There are several options to replace an extracted tooth, including dental implants, bridges, and dentures. Your dentist will discuss these options with you and recommend the most suitable one based on your individual needs and preferences.
Like any surgical procedure, tooth extractions carry some risks. The most common complications include dry socket (a painful condition where the blood clot does not form or dislodges after extraction), infection, damage to surrounding teeth or tissues, and excessive bleeding. However, these complications are rare and can be minimised by following your dentist's post-operative instructions.
If you undergo a simple extraction with local anesthesia, you should be able to drive home afterwards. However, if you receive sedation or general anesthesia, it is necessary to have someone accompany you and drive you home, as the effects of the anesthesia may impair your ability to drive safely.
Impacted wisdom teeth are the third molars that do not have enough space to fully emerge or develop properly within the mouth. They can cause pain, infection, and overcrowding of other teeth. In such cases, extraction is often recommended.
Not all wisdom teeth need to be removed. If the wisdom teeth are healthy, properly positioned, and have enough space to erupt and be cleaned adequately, they may not require extraction. Your dentist will assess your specific case and recommend the most appropriate course of action.
It is advisable to take it easy for the first 24 hours after an extraction. Avoid any strenuous activities, exercise, or heavy lifting during this time. After this initial period, you can gradually resume your regular activities, taking care not to disturb the extraction site.
Maintaining proper oral hygiene practices, such as brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings, can help prevent dental issues that may require extractions. Additionally, addressing dental problems promptly can also help prevent the need for extractions in some cases.
Emerald Dental
51 Grafton St, Dublin D02 K635
Monday to Friday 9:00 am - 4:30 pm
Saturday & Sunday Closed
