When a tooth is damaged beyond repair, it may need to come out. Ramona Dental Group in Ramona, California, offers on-site tooth extractions to restore your oral health. Performed in the office under local or general anesthesia, a tooth extraction is a quick dental surgery process with a short recovery time. To see if you need extractions, call the office or schedule an appointment online.
Tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth from the jaw bone and among the most popular procedures performed in the dental office. Tooth extractions are considered dental surgery, but most are completed right in the dental office quickly and with local numbing agents to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure.
Extractions are necessary if you have an advanced infection, chipped, cracked, or worn teeth, fractured or broken teeth, or gum disease. Sometimes extractions are necessary if you have crowding of teeth, or if an unerupted tooth could cause problems in the future, which is common with wisdom teeth.
Before a tooth is pulled, your dentist gives an anesthetic to make the procedure more comfortable. Most patients only require a local anesthetic, but if you prefer general anesthesia or have dental anxiety, general anesthesia is an option.
Once your mouth is numb or you are under general anesthesia, your dentist uses a variety of specialized instruments to quickly remove the tooth. You may feel pressure or discomfort in the area as the dentist rocks the tooth out of the socket, but the anesthesia ensures there is no pain.
After the tooth is extracted, your dentist cleans the area thoroughly and applies sutures to close the hole if necessary. You may bite down on gauze to help stop the bleeding. Your dentist provides after care instructions for taking care of the extraction site while it heals, and a follow-up appointment is scheduled to ensure the area healed properly.
The recovery time for extractions varies on the type and location of extraction, but the average healing time is between 7-10 days. You can help promote efficient healing and prevent problems after an extraction with the following tips:
Keep gauze pad in place for 3-4 hours after procedure
Always follow the aftercare instructions provided by your dentist, and call the practice with any questions or concerns following an extraction.
If you think you need an extraction or it’s been more than six months since your last professional cleaning and dental exam, call Ramona Dental Group or schedule an appointment online.
