Tooth Extractions
A dental extraction is the procedure to remove a tooth from your mouth. A dental extraction is most commonly required if one of your teeth is damaged beyond practical repair. The most common reasons for tooth extractions include:
- Severe tooth decay or infection may make it impossible or too costly to repair a tooth
- Advanced gum disease may required a tooth to be pulled so it doesn’t affect the supporting tissues and bone structures of your mouth
- A tooth may be extracted if it is blocking other teeth from coming in
- During orthodontic work, teeth may need to be extracted to create room for the teeth that are being moved into place
- Wisdom teeth are often extracted either before or after they come in
What to expect
Your dentist will first administer anesthetic to numb the area and reduce discomfort. During the extraction, you will feel slight pressure of the tooth being removed, but will not feel any pain. The dentist will carefully extract the tooth by using specialized instruments in order to preserve gum and bone structure.
After the extraction, it is normal to experience a small amount of residual bleeding. A folded piece of gauze is placed in the extracted area. The area may bleed minimally for the next 24 hours or so and taper off after that. Follow your dentist's instructions on other post-procedure steps to follow.
