Tooth Extraction Guide: Pros, Cons, Side Effects, and After Care

If you’ve never had the procedure before, you are probably curious about what to expect from the treatment. We’ve compiled this list of a few of the most commonly asked questions about tooth extractions in Danbury, CT.

What Is a Tooth Extraction?

A dental extraction is a safe and routine general dentistry procedure that removes a tooth from its socket. The goal of our dentist in Danbury, CT, is to help patients keep their teeth rather than remove them, but extraction is sometimes required to maintain optimum oral health. If we determine that only an extraction can correct your dental problem, we will perform dental extraction will be recommended.

When Do Patients Need to Have a Tooth Removed?

The reasons that you may need a tooth removed are varied, but some of the most common reasons include:

• Having a tooth that is damaged or decayed and can no longer be repaired with a filling or crown
• Having teeth that are overcrowded and creating either an aesthetic concern or an oral health concern
• Having impacted wisdom teeth that have become infected or are at risk of damaging surrounding teeth
• Having a baby tooth that affects the safe eruption of a permanent tooth
• Having periodontal disease, which has caused teeth to become loose and at risk of ripping out

Simple tooth extractions are for teeth that have erupted, and the dentist can remove them using forceps. If, however, a tooth is not accessible, dentists will perform a surgical tooth extraction, such as on wisdom teeth that remain below the gum surface.

How Long Does a Tooth Extraction Take?

It is difficult for any dentist to answer without an exam to determine which tooth needs extraction. In most cases, simple tooth extraction can complete in one appointment. The variables in time come into play with surgical tooth extractions. When you visit our office for a consultation and treatment plan, Dr. Landress will provide you with a more precise answer to this question. You’ll also receive information on how to prepare for your extraction appointment and whether or not you should drive home afterward or arrange for alternate transportation. If you are concerned about how you may feel afterward and wonder whether you can return to work or school, we offer late hours on Monday evening so you can go straight home and rest afterward.

Do And Don’ts After Tooth Extraction?

The most important thing to keep in mind after a tooth extraction is keeping the area clean to prevent infection from bacterial infestation at the extraction site. Our dental care team will provide you with a complete list of dos and don’ts in your aftercare instructions relative to your extraction. Some of the most common instructions include:

• Applying an ice pack to your cheek to assist in discomfort and swelling
• Limiting any strenuous activity
• Avoiding certain foods and beverages
• Drinking through a straw
• Taking either over-the-counter or prescribed medications to control discomfort

During your procedure, Dr. Landress and his caring team strive to give you the highest quality, most comfortable dental care in our relaxing, state-of-the-art environment. Likewise, we do everything possible to ensure that your post-treatment care is equally comfortable for you.

What Are the Signs of Infection After Tooth Extraction?

Gum infection can occur after a tooth extraction procedure. Although aftercare instructions from our dentist will include information to reduce or prevent this from happening, here are some things to be aware of:

• Pain or discomfort at the extraction site develops 3-5 days after the procedure.
• An ice pack or other recommended post-procedure instruction will not remedy inflammation and swelling.
• An unpleasant odor or a bad taste in your mouth signals an infection or trapped food in the socket.

Do you still have questions? Please give the office of Danbury Smiles – George Landress, DDS, MAGD a call to learn more today.