A Few Reasons Why You May Need a Tooth Extraction
Permanent teeth are precious, and your dentist will make every effort to save each one. Nevertheless, there are some situations when tooth extraction becomes unavoidable.
Impacted Wisdom Tooth
These are the teeth at the very back of the mouth, also called the third molars. Since they’re the last to erupt, they are often crowded and blocked from erupting. When the tooth can not emerge, it turns around to an oblique or horizontal position, pressing against its neighbor. Such teeth are called impacted teeth.
Such a tooth cannot erupt, and your dentist will advise tooth extraction. Dentists don’t make efforts to preserve the third molar since they don’t contribute much to chewing.
Dental Decay
Dental decay is another common cause of potential tooth removal. In the initial stages, teeth can be preserved by a dental cleaning, cavity filling, and root canal treatment. Infections and inflammation can be controlled with medication prescribed by your dentist or doctor.
Conversely, if tooth decay is advanced, your dentist will advise removing the tooth.
Periodontal Disease
Severe infections that affect the gum and bones can sometimes force a tooth extraction.
Injury
Teeth are sometimes severely damaged in vehicular accidents or sporting injuries. Your dentist may advise extraction if the tooth is too severely damaged to be salvaged.
Overcrowding
If your teeth are crowded, some may be pushed backward or forwards, resulting in uneven teeth. If you wish to have an even appearance of your teeth, you will need orthodontia. The specialist may advise removing one or more teeth to create space for straightening the remaining teeth.
Preventative Care
These preventative measures are essential. They’ll save you from a possible tooth extraction.
- Do visit your dentist regularly. Such visits help catch any gum or tooth disease early. Early treatment can potentially save your teeth.
- Do have regular dental cleanings. They remove plaque and prevent gum and tooth infections.
- Don’t drink excessive soda pops and other sugary drinks.
- Don’t brush your teeth less than recommended.
- Don’t keep a toothbrush after you’ve had the flu.
- Don’t ignore your at-home oral health routine.
Tooth Extraction Aftercare
Sometimes, tooth extraction becomes unavoidable. Your dentist will make every effort to keep you comfortable and reduce pain. After the extraction, what should you do at home?
Rest. Avoid strenuous activity for a few days.
Avoid Hot and Cold Drinks. The local anesthesia your dentist injects makes your mouth numb. Drinking a hot beverage may burn your mouth since you can’t feel the heat.
Don’t Gargle. Gargling will dislodge the blood clot formed at the extraction site and cause fresh bleeding. Similarly, avoid spitting and drinking from a straw.
Salt Water Rinse. Your dentist may recommend this after 24 hours.
Take Medication as Prescribed. Your dentist will prescribe medicines to reduce pain and swelling. In addition, they may also prescribe antibiotics.
Soft Food. For the first day or two, it is recommended to eat only soft foods that can be swallowed without chewing. Example: soups, healthy smoothies, or purees.
Ice Packs. Apply one to your cheek or jaw to reduce the pain.
Dental caries are the most common reason for tooth extraction. You can avoid this situation by regular dental visits and teeth cleaning.