As scary as they may sound, tooth extractions are fairly commonplace procedures that are not only necessary but relatively painless. If you have an impacted tooth, need to create room for an orthodontic procedure, or need a wisdom tooth pulled, you can trust Cataloochee Dental Group to get it done with minimal discomfort.
Why Would I Need to Have a Tooth Extracted?
Tooth extractions can facilitate cosmetic procedures, improve your oral health, or alleviate the pain from an advanced tooth infection. Some of the many reasons why an extraction might be necessary include:
- To offset dental overcrowding and create room to straighten your teeth
- As a means of treating severe periodontal disease
- To open room for an impacted tooth to erupt through the gum line
- As a treatment for trauma or injury
Understanding Wisdom Tooth Extractions
Why Are They Necessary?
Wisdom teeth often cause problems as they are trying to protrude through the gums. When a wisdom tooth is impacted, the tooth is coming in at an angle and not straight through the gum line. This can be painful, cause an uneven alignment, or a partial emergence.
When a wisdom tooth only partially emerges, a flap of skin, called an operculum, may form over the tooth. This formation can make the tooth hard to clean, and food may be caught under the skin, making it easier for an infection, called pericoronitis, to develop. Impacted teeth and wisdom teeth that can potentially cause problems, like infections, need to be removed.
How Does a Wisdom Tooth Removal Work?
Based on the doctor's preference and/or the patient, a local anesthetic could be used to numb the areas where the teeth will be extracted. Others will prefer to go under a general anesthetic so that they will be sedated during the procedure.
The gum tissue around the wisdom tooth is cut open to reveal the tooth. The tooth is loosened by gripping it tightly and wiggling it back and forth until it can be lifted out of the gums. Sometimes a tooth may be impacted so tightly that it cannot simply be lifted out of the gums. In cases like this, the tooth will be broken up into pieces first before being removed. Depending on the incision and extraction site, sutures may be needed to close the area. Soluble sutures are the best option, which will dissolve on their own.
What Happens After A Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
You can expect the extraction site to bleed for a little while after the surgery. Gauze will be applied after the surgery, and you will need to change it when it becomes soaked. If bleeding continues for longer than 24 hours, you should call your dentist. Although the procedure itself is painless, some discomfort and pain in the days following the procedure are normal. Your dentist will prescribe you pain medication, so if you become sore, take as directed.
Do You Need a Tooth Extraction Near Clyde, NC?
At Cataloochee Dental Group, we have the skill and experience to make your tooth extraction as seamless and comfortable as possible. Get in touch with us today to learn more!
