Tooth Extractions – Gahanna, OH

When is a Tooth Extraction Needed?

In most cases, a tooth is extracted because it has sustained significant decay, particularly decay that has reached well past the enamel and into the inner area of the tooth where the pulp lies. Here, oral bacteria can easily infect the pulp and cause the tooth to die. Keep in mind that an extraction is only performed if it is determine that a root canal cannot sufficiently save the tooth. Furthermore, teeth may need to be extracted if they are causing harm to neighboring teeth or if space needs to be created for orthodontic treatment.

Why Some Tooth Extractions are More Difficult Than Others

The nature of the tooth removal process can vary depending on the circumstances of the tooth. For example, teeth that are visible are much easier to remove because they do not require making additional incisions into gum tissue. If a tooth erupts and it is trapped underneath gum tissue, we need to open that tissue up so that we can safely access the tooth. These key differences are what distinguish simple extractions versus surgical extractions. We’ll make sure to inform you on every step of treatment before we begin.

What Does the Treatment Look Like? The Aftercare?

During a simple extraction, we start by numbing the tooth and the tissue surrounding it to ensure no discomfort is felt during the actual procedure. Then, we gently rock the tooth back and forth using a dental elevator. This breaks the tooth from the periodontal ligament that holds it in place. Next, we’ll use a pair of dental forceps to gently remove the tooth from the jaw. We’ll then ask you to bite down onto a gauze pad so that the socket has a chance to form a clot. This also controls any bleeding. In the case of a surgical extraction, we’ll perform the same steps as a simple extraction, except we’ll create an incision in the gum tissue and potentially break the tooth into smaller pieces to remove them if needed.

After your treatment is complete, you’ll need to:

• Get plenty of rest
• Keep the gauze pad in place for at least two hours before replacing
• Avoid exercise as directed
• Avoid smoking or using a straw for at least three days
• Do not rinse your mouth out or forcefully spit for at least 24 hours
• Keep to a soft diet for 24 hours
• Take pain medication as directed
• Apply an ice pack to your face for 10 minutes at a time, then remove to prevent accidentally damaging your facial tissue. This can be done for up to one hour.

What Solutions are Available to Replace Missing Teeth?

At Claybrooke Dental of Gahanna, there are multiple solutions to replace your missing tooth. These include dental bridges and dental implants. Both of these options are great solutions for replacing teeth and come with their own unique benefits.

Learn About Tooth Replacement