Basically Dentistry: Procedures Explained
An extraction is the complete removal of a tooth. It is usually done when a tooth is severely decayed, loose, fractured, or cracked, and sometimes due to orthodontic reasons such as braces. Extractions can be scary, as people are often afraid of needles, pain, and blood, so I will briefly explain the procedure.
- We numb the area. Numbing can feel like the area is swollen; it’s just a strange, heavy sensation.
- We loosen the gum around the tooth. This also helps us check how numb you are.
- Once this is completed, you will feel pressure, which feels like pressing down—we usually demonstrate this to you.
- We use instruments to loosen the tooth further.
- We remove the tooth with forceps, which are instruments designed to hold onto the tooth.
- Once the tooth is removed, we place cotton wool or gauze and ask you to bite down to stop the bleeding.
- We advise you on instructions on how to take care of the socket.
TIPS
All teeth and all people are different. This means extractions can take different amounts of time—a tooth can be removed in 1 minute or 1 hour. It depends on the condition of the tooth, the jawbone, and other factors, so don’t be afraid if it doesn’t come out immediately.
Pressure is to be expected. If you feel pain, you should tell your dental professional.
Chronic medication: A lot of people don’t take their medication before coming to the dentist out of fear it may affect treatment. However, your medication helps you function, and your body relies on it—please take it as prescribed. If there are any concerns, your GP or dental professional will advise you before you stop any medication.
Make sure to bite on the cotton for as long as instructed, usually 30 minutes to 1 hour. As with any injury, applying pressure helps stop bleeding. Another tip is to bite on a wet teabag if bleeding continues.
Follow your post-operative instructions as carefully as possible to allow proper healing.
Thank you for reading this post. I hope you found it informative and helpful.