A tooth extraction is a delicate oral procedure that requires an experienced oral surgeon. This procedure can be uncomfortable, but a patient can reduce pain and discomfort by following certain post-procedure care guidelines.
Teeth may need to be removed for various reasons. Some teeth are severely decayed or broken beyond repair, while others have an impacted location (as in the case of wisdom teeth). Regardless of the reason, these teeth must be removed to prevent serious complications.
Tooth Damage
Dental extractions are performed for many reasons, including severe tooth decay, damage from injury, or problems such as impacted wisdom teeth. The procedure can be complicated and painful, but an experienced emergency dentist can make it as comfortable as possible. In addition, it is essential to have a companion during the visit because the bleeding can be significant.
A minor toothache can be relieved by over-the-counter painkillers, but more severe pain indicates a serious problem that needs immediate attention. Severe tooth damage can lead to bone deterioration, which can cause complications such as sinus infections and gum disease.
A tooth extraction Harrisonburg VA is a surgical procedure that removes the tooth from its socket in the jawbone. It can be painful, but the surgeon uses sedation to ensure that patients experience minimal discomfort. After the procedure, patients should bite down gently on a gauze pad to stop bleeding and promote clot formation. They should also avoid strenuous activities and replace the gauze as needed.
Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth — the third set of molars that come in between the ages of 17 and 25 — are frequently impacted. They either fail to grow in correctly or become partially or fully trapped in the gum tissue or jaw bone. This can lead to problems such as tooth decay, cysts and gum disease.
Impacted wisdom teeth can also damage the neighboring teeth. They might even become infected and transfer bacteria into the bloodstream. Regular dental visits can help monitor the development of wisdom teeth and identify potential issues early on.
Tooth extraction is a complicated procedure that requires the expertise of an oral surgeon. Our experienced provider has extensive post-dental school training in the surgery of the teeth, bones and jaws, and ensures that each procedure is as comfortable and painless as possible for our patients. In some cases, general anesthesia may be used to make the patient more relaxed and calm during the procedure.
Gum Disease
Gum disease occurs from bacteria buildup over time that leads to inflammation and infection of the gum tissue around your teeth. It’s not something you should ignore and can lead to serious health issues such as heart disease and diabetes. The early stage of gum disease, gingivitis, is reversible with regular oral care and routine dental visits. However, if left untreated gingivitis can turn into periodontitis that damages gum tissue and bone and leads to loose teeth. Treatment options for this advanced stage include deep cleanings, antibiotics, and possibly surgery.
Immediately after your tooth extraction Harrisonburg VA, it is important to avoid vigorous activities that can dislodge or disturb the blood clot that forms at the site. It’s also a good idea to rest and apply an ice pack to reduce swelling. Make sure to take your pain medication as directed and call our office if you experience severe pain or unusual symptoms.
Toothache
Tooth pain stems from a variety of dental conditions, some minor and manageable with home treatments, while others require professional treatment. Minor toothaches typically result from temporary gum irritation and are manageable with simple painkillers. Unbearable tooth pain, however, can indicate a serious dental issue and is best addressed by a dentist.
A tooth extraction is a meticulous procedure that requires a skilled oral surgeon. During the procedure, anesthetic injections will numb your teeth and surrounding gum tissue to ensure comfort. For more complex cases, general anesthesia may be necessary.
Immediately after a tooth extraction, it’s important to maintain proper hygiene to minimize swelling and prevent complications. This means avoiding hard or sticky foods and drinking through a straw. It’s also helpful to sleep upright instead of lying down, as this will reduce inflammation and encourage bone growth. If you’ve recently undergone a tooth extraction, we can help you replace your missing teeth with restoration options such as dental implants.
