Tooth extraction or exodontia is a fairly common procedure and most of us have to get at least one tooth pulled out at some point in our lives. However, the phobias and paranoias associated with the procedure are endless and justifiably so. Let us take a look at this article which provides a step-by-step analysis of the entire process and try to rid ourselves of the anxiety.
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Reasons for Tooth Extraction
There are a wide array of reasons as to why your tooth needs to be pulled out. One of the main reasons could be a crowded mouth and removal of teeth could lead to perfect alignment. Serious dental infection is also one of the leading causes of tooth removal. Your dentist can also recommend a tooth extraction surgery if you are suffering from periodontal disease. Now that we know the most common reasons let us delve deeper into the basics of the tooth extraction procedure.
Sedation Dentistry
Numbing the site of the tooth extraction is done even before the tugging and pulling out of your tooth starts. The location of the tooth determines if you will receive an intravenous anesthetic or a general neuroleptic. In case you are given the local anesthetic or the injection, then you might be instructed to not eat or drink anything eight hours before the procedure. To avoid any serious complications we would recommend you to provide your entire medical and dental history to your dentist and also specify any medication you are under. Our team of dentists will discuss the options with you and help you select the best sedative dentistry service for your case. Put your mind at ease and you are all set to begin the procedure.
The Extraction Process
Once you have been sedated and your gum tissue is adequately numb, our Dentist in Winchester and the team will attempt to loosen the teeth. When it is sufficiently loose from the ligaments and the jawbone, our team of dentists will perform the extraction using forceps. These are simple extractions and they are generally smooth and hassle-free. Surgical extractions, on the other hand, could be a bit complicated. If the tooth is impacted then the dentist can solve the issue easily with small incisions. You are only supposed to feel pressure throughout the entire procedure. In case of any pain or discomfort let your dentist know. In such cases, your sedative could be tweaked to numb the area further.
Steps to Hasten the Recovery
The recovery process could take anywhere from two to three days to a week. If the pain persists you are advised to contact your dentist immediately and request painkillers.
Gently biting the gauze pad:
Once the procedure is complete, your dentist will place a sterilized gauze pad to prevent bleeding and preserve the blood clot which has been formed. You are supposed to firmly but gently bite it and change it once it is completely covered in blood. Keep it for as long as your dentist advises you to do so. Oftentimes the edges of the gum will be closed up with self-dissolving stitches which will fasten the recovery process and prevent bacteria from entering your bloodstream. Avoid rinsing your mouth for the next 24 hours to avoid conditions leading to a dry socket.
Cold Compressions:
The application of ice packs can minimize the swelling and lead to a faster healing process. Using cold compresses for ten to twenty minutes has been seen to reduce pain.
Eat soft food:
Beverages and edibles of jelly-like consistency will be your best friend during the recovery process. Ingest soft food like yogurt, pudding, or even soup till the pain subsides and you can again chew properly.
Additionally, avoid smoking and give a lot of rest to your body for the next two days. Occasionally rinse your mouth with saline water after 24 hours of the extraction procedure. If you have any further questions related to extraction then consult a dentist near you immediately. And if you are looking for a dentist in Winchester, VA then please do not hesitate to contact us for a consultation.