Uh oh! So, you’ve just been informed that you need a tooth removed. Generally if a tooth is broken or damaged, your dentist will attempt to treat it with a filling, crown, etc. Sometimes, if there is too much damage for the tooth it will need to be extracted or removed. The procedure may be daunting and scary, however your dentist will happily guide you through the process so you’re as comfortable as possible.
Here’s a general idea of how the procedure will go:
First your dentist or oral surgeons will take an X-ray of the area. This will help them determine the best way to remove a tooth. You may be prescribed antibiotics before your surgery if you have a weak immune system, have a lengthy surgery, have certain medical conditions, or if you have an infection at the time of your surgery. If you have a cold, you may want to let your doctor know as they may want to move the surgery to a different date.
Depending on the type of surgery and your doctor's resources, the anesthesia may be general or local anesthesia. There are two types of extractions, a simple extraction and a surgical extraction. A simple extraction is performed on a tooth that can be seen in the mouth. This procedure can be done by general dentists. The tooth is loosened with a tool called an elevator and is removed using forceps. A surgical extraction is a more complex process. It is used when teeth have not broken the gum line yet or if a tooth has broken off at the gum line. Your doctor will cut into the gum line and sometimes cut into the bone in order to remove the tooth.
We believe understanding a procedure removes mystery therefore making it less scary. If you’re in the Northridge area and are looking for a dentist, make an appointment online with us today!
Source: Colgate.com
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