Tooth Removal: Is Dental Surgery Necessary?

We are only given one set of permanent teeth, so it is important to keep them healthy and clean. However, circumstances can occur where teeth must be removed to ensure overall oral health. Sometimes, teeth are easy to remove, while other times the process is more complicated. Learning more about surgical extraction of teeth and why it is necessary can help you to feel more at ease with an upcoming procedure.

Removing Teeth

It is suggested by the experts that teeth be removed when they are subject to trauma, crowding or disease. When a tooth is unable to be repaired by a crown or filling due to decay or accident, an extraction may be the best option.

Teeth are also removed when periodontal disease is present, as there is not enough bone remaining for support. When teeth become infected and a root canal will not work, the tooth is extracted. It is not unusual for teeth to be extracted as well when crowding occurs. When teeth remain, crowding can cause awkward positioning as new permanent teeth come in.

So, adults, as well as children, can require a surgical extraction depending on the circumstances. A simple extraction may work or the tooth may require a surgical procedure when the process is more complicated.

The Difference

So what is the difference between a simple extraction and a surgical one? A simple extraction involves the dentist removing a tooth that is visible above the gum line. Forceps are used and the tooth comes out fairly quickly. With a surgical procedure, the tooth may not have grown in yet or the tooth is broken and requires removal in pieces.

A common reason for a surgical procedure is with wisdom teeth. If the teeth have yet to come in, they will need to be removed below the gumline, which requires surgery. This is also done with other teeth that may be crowding the mouth.

If you have a broken tooth, the dentist may need to complete a surgical procedure because the tooth is in pieces inside your gums. This can involve removing root tips and other components which takes time and more effort.

Care After Extraction

When you have a surgical extraction, it is important to follow after-care instructions. You will most likely have stitches and need to follow instructions in order to have a quick recovery time. After the surgery, be sure to bite down on gauze for 30 minutes to stop bleeding. Avoid talking, eating and drinking as you can for the first two hours after surgery.

After the bleeding stops, be sure to drink lukewarm and cold liquids. Do not rinse your mouth or brush your teeth within the first 12 hours of the procedure. When brushing, be sure to avoid the surgical area but rinse with salt water or diluted mouthwash to clean the area.

By properly following the care instructions, you can ensure your mouth will heal properly and you will be back to normal in no time.

At Winn Family Dentistry, surgical procedures are completed in a timely and professional manner. Contact the office today to learn more or to schedule an appointment for any surgical needs.