Tooth Extraction
Ann Arbor, MIYour teeth perform many important functions. They allow you to bite and chew your food. By controlling airflow, they allow you to speak properly and be understood. And a full set of teeth provides you with a gorgeous smile. Because they have so many crucial jobs, any damage to your teeth can be quite detrimental. This is why, at Everwell Dentistry, we do everything we can to save your teeth. Sometimes, though, despite our best efforts, the damage is too much, or there are extenuating circumstances, and a tooth needs to be extracted.
Why Might You Need an Extraction?When you come in with a damaged tooth, we will perform a thorough dental exam and explore every option to save the tooth. However, sometimes this is not possible. There are a few different reasons why you might need a tooth extraction:
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The crack has extended below the gum line
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The tooth is shattered
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The tooth has suffered so much decay that there is very little structure left, and a large filling would destroy it
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You have an impacted tooth. The wisdom teeth are often the most likely to suffer this situation. Impacted teeth, not addressed, can often lead to infections or damage to the adjacent teeth
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Your mouth is overcrowded. These extractions are usually performed before orthodontic treatment
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You need radiation (and the teeth are going to be in the way)
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You have a weakened immune system, and your tooth is at risk for infection (this is a proactive step to prevent serious complications) |
 Preparing for an ExtractionBefore deciding whether or not to extract a tooth, we perform a complete oral exam. During this exam, we will also take some digital x-rays to get a clearer picture of what is happening below the gum line. If no other restorative action proves effective, we will recommend extraction. We will discuss what you can expect during the procedure as well as what options you have for sedation if necessary.
Simple ExtractionsA simple extraction is just as it sounds. After we administer a local anesthetic, we will expand the socket in which your tooth sits. What this means is that we wiggle the tooth back and forth to widen the socket. When there is sufficient space, we then lift the tooth out. When the tooth is out, we will close the extraction site to prevent infection.
Healing After Tooth ExtractionWhether your extraction is simple or surgical, you will still need to take some time to heal. You may experience some pain, swelling and bleeding, but these are all normal. Pain can usually be managed with an over-the-counter pain reliever. For swelling, ice on the cheek near the extraction site (20 minutes on and 20 minutes off) during the first 24 hours can help to minimize the effects. A warm compress after the first 48 hours can help swelling to dissipate faster. Avoid doing any strenuous activities for at least the first 24 hours. Rest and keep your head elevated. |
