TOOTH EXTRACTION OVERVIEW

What is a tooth extraction?

A tooth extraction is a dental procedure during which your tooth is completely removed from its socket. Sometimes, people refer to this as “pulling” a tooth.

When is tooth extraction recommended?

Healthcare providers prefer to save natural teeth whenever possible. But sometimes, other restorative methods — such as dental fillings or dental crowns — aren’t enough. If your tooth has been badly damaged past the point of repair, then removal may be necessary. Your dentist may recommend tooth extraction if you have:

  • Severe tooth decay (cavities).
  • A fractured tooth.
  • An impacted tooth 
  • Crowded teeth.
  • Severe gum disease.
  • Tooth luxation or other dental injuries.

Who performs tooth extraction?

Dentists and some dental specialists — such as oral surgeons— can perform tooth extractions. While general dentists perform plenty of extractions, more complex cases are usually referred out to an oral surgeon.

PROCEDURE DETAILS

What happens before a tooth extraction?

Your dentist will assess your affected tooth and surrounding gums. Your dentist will also take dental X-rays to check bone levels and determine the extent of damage. Be sure to tell your dentist about any medications, vitamins or supplements you’re taking. Once all information is gathered, treatment and sedation options will be discussed with you in detail.

Sedation options in dentistry

Many healthcare providers offer sedation during tooth extractions and other dental procedures. Sedation is an excellent option for people who have dental anxiety — or for those who simply want to be more comfortable during their appointment. Sedation medications used in dentistry include:

  • Nitrous oxide. Known as “laughing gas,” nitrous oxide is a gas that you inhale through a mask or nosepiece. It’s a good option for people who need light level sedation. People who choose nitrous oxide can drive themselves to and from their appointments.
  • Oral conscious sedation. This type of sedation is given by mouth, usually in pill form, about an hour before your dental appointment. Common medications used for this purpose include diazepam, midazolam, triazolam and lorazepam. Oral conscious sedation can be used on its own or in combination with nitrous oxide or intravenous sedation. Dosages are adjusted according to your specific needs. People who choose oral conscious sedation will need a friend or family member to drive them to and from their appointment.
  • Intravenous (IV) sedation. This is recommended for people with significant dental anxiety or for those undergoing lengthy procedures. Sedative and pain medications — such as midazolam and meperidine — are delivered directly to your bloodstream using an IV line. IV sedation is the highest level of sedation that can be obtained in a dental office setting. People who choose IV sedation will need to make arrangements for a driver the day of their procedure.

In some instances, your dental provider may recommend general anaesthesia in a hospital setting. This option is usually reserved for complex cases, such as facial reconstruction or corrective jaw surgery.

What happens during a tooth extraction?

First, local anaesthesia is given to numb your affected tooth and surrounding gum tissue. Using specialized dental instruments, your dentist will gently loosen your tooth and carefully lift it from its socket. Sometimes, your dentist might need to make incisions in your gums to access your tooth — especially if your tooth is badly decayed or has broken off at the gum line. Once your tooth is removed, the socket is cleaned and disinfected. Finally, stitches may be placed to help promote healing.

What happens after a tooth extraction?

When the procedure is complete, your dentist will place a piece of gauze over the extraction site and ask you to close down with firm, steady pressure. This helps to control the bleeding so a blood clot can form. (Clotting is a normal aspect of recovery. It promotes healing and reduces the risk of dry sockets.) You’ll take the gauze out once the bleeding has slowed enough. You may continue to have light bleeding throughout the first 24 hours.

RISKS / BENEFITS

What are the advantages of pulling a tooth?

Tooth extraction offers a number of benefits. Most importantly, it reduces harmful bacteria that can damage your teeth and gums. Left untreated, a decayed or damaged tooth can wreak havoc on your smile, causing a domino effect of problems. Removing your affected tooth gives you the best chance for optimal oral health. Additionally, a tooth extraction can help ease dental pain almost immediately — especially if your tooth was severely broken or infected.

What are the risks or complications of tooth extraction?

Like any surgical procedure, tooth extraction carries a small risk of complications. These may include:

  • Post-surgical infection.
  • Dry socket.
  • Nerve injury.
  • Perforation of maxillary sinus.
  • Delayed healing.

What are the side effects of removing a tooth?

Normal side effects following tooth extraction include bleeding, swelling and discomfort. Your dentist will provide instructions on how to successfully manage your healing.

RECOVERY AND OUTLOOK

How long does it take to recover from a tooth extraction?

It depends on the complexity of your case. However, most people feel back to normal in just a few days. While you’ll be able to return to routine activities within 48 to 72 hours, it usually takes the jawbone several weeks to heal completely. Therefore, if you’re planning on replacing the tooth with a dental implant, you’ll probably need to wait a few months to allow for full recovery.

Tooth extraction aftercare

After your extraction, your dentist will give you a detailed list of post-surgical instructions. Here are some general guidelines for a speedy recovery:

MOUTH RINSING

DO NOT RINSE OR BRUSH FOR THE FIRST 24 HOURS.  

It is the most important step to your recovery. Rinsing or brushing too early can disrupt the blood clot that aids in the healing of the wound.

Failing to do so can cause dry socket.    

  • Keep the extraction site clean. Gently rinse the area with an antimicrobial mouthwash two to three times a day. Avoid brushing directly over your extraction site until your dentist tells you it’s safe to do so. Brush and floss all other areas normally.
  • Take all medications as directed. Your dentist may prescribe antibiotics and pain relievers. It’s important to take all of these medications exactly as directed. You can also take over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen.
  • Avoid strenuous activity for at least two days. An elevated heart rate can cause increased post-operative bleeding and discomfort. Skip the gym for the first 48 to 72 hours. Ask your dentist when it’s safe to resume normal routines.

What can I eat after a tooth extraction?

Avoid hard and crunchy foods for the first few days. Stock your fridge and pantry with soft foods like rice, pasta, eggs, yogurt and applesauce. You’ll also want to avoid drinking through straws, as this can dislodge blood clots and cause dry sockets.

When can I go back to work or school?

Most people are able to return to work or school within a day or two. If you have a job that requires a lot of lifting or physical labor, you may need to take a few more days off work.

WHEN TO CALL THE DOCTOR

When should I see my healthcare provider?

Any time you develop a toothache or dental pain, it’s important to schedule a visit with your dentist. They can help determine the cause and design a personalized treatment plan.

A note from Howick Dental Surgery 

It’s never fun hearing that you need to have a tooth pulled. But sometimes, a tooth extraction is the best way to eliminate infection and get you back on track to a healthy smile and life. If your dentist recommends an extraction, be sure to discuss replacement options with them, too. Dental restorations like dental implants, dental bridges or partial dentures can restore appearance, function and overall oral health.

What to expect after surgery 

NUMBNESS

Your respective side of the face will be numb for 2-3 hours after extraction.

This is normal and it is a good time to start your pain medications.

Please be careful not to bite your tongue or lip during this time.  

PAIN

Unfortunately, some pain is to be expected after extraction. It is important to take the pain relief medication regularly and on schedule to best manage your discomfort. Everyone perceives pain differently so it is important to maintain your pain level during the healing period.

SWELLING

Swelling is body’s usual reaction to extraction; it is expected and normal. You can place an ice pack on your face which can help at reducing the swelling.  

BLEEDING

You will taste blood for the first 2-3 days. This is most likely the saliva in your mouth being in the area of extraction. Our dentist will always make sure that your bleeding stops after the procedure. Quick Sutures may be placed in the mouth.

What you can do to aid recovery:

ICE PACKS

Ice packs on the face can help limit swelling and discomfort. They are most helpful for the first 3 days when used 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off. 

 GENERAL CARE

  • Do not spit, or suck through straws. This can cause the surgical area to bleed again. 
  • Take it easy during the healing period but try and get back to your normal daily activities if you can. 
  • You can continue to brush your teeth if you want (after the first 24 hours). Just be very careful, or avoid the areas where you had the surgery, particularly in the first few days. 
  • Resist the temptation to have a look at how the wound is healing. This often interferes with healing and causes more problems. 
  • Try to refrain from smoking, as this will increase your risk of infection and complications. Vaping is also not recommended. 
  • Add an extra pillow to your bed so you are slightly elevated when lying down..