Extractions at St. Leonards Green Dental
Need a Tooth Pulled in St. Leonards?
Tooth extractions are recommended when damaged or severely infected teeth cannot be restored. Removing the tooth helps prevent the spread of infection and compromised health in neighbouring teeth.
While we try to avoid extractions at St. Leonards Green Dental, as often as possible, there comes a time when having your tooth pulled may be in the best interest of your overall oral health.
Reasons for Getting a Tooth Removed
What are some of the most common reasons a tooth needs to be extracted? Here are some of the more typical cases that we see:
- Severe pain or a dental emergency
- Aggressive gum disease
- Extensive tooth decay or fractures
- Cracked teeth
- Dental abscesses
- Impacted or infected wisdom teeth
- Orthodontic complications
Replacing Your Tooth After an Extraction
Having a tooth removed creates extra space inside of your mouth. If that space is left there, adjacent and opposing teeth will start to drift out of proper alignment. This gradual tooth movement can affect areas across your entire smile (including front teeth). If you previously wore braces, this can be especially disheartening.
We recommend replacing your missing tooth in a timely manner to prevent unwanted tooth misalignment. A fixed porcelain bridge, partial denture or dental implants are all worth considering. After discussing your options with you, you can select the best solution for your unique situation.
What to Expect During Your Appointment
Tooth extractions are a minor form of oral surgery. As such, we’ll take steps to ensure you’re as comfortable as possible. In most cases, numbing the area with local anaesthetic is more than adequate. However, some people still feel anxious about their appointment. You can also elect to have nitrous oxide sedation (laughing gas) to help you relax.
Although you will feel some gentle pressure, anaesthetic will keep your extraction site numb. As the medication starts to wear off a few hours later, you may need to take an over-the-counter pain reliever to manage any mild discomfort. Take note to follow your home care instructions closely to avoid a possible infection or dry socket.
If sutures are needed, they’re usually dissolvable. In most cases, you won’t need to make a follow-up appointment unless you have a specific concern.
Recovering From an Extraction
On the date of your oral surgery, plan to have a place to rest where you can sit up – such as a recliner or a few pillows behind you. For the first day, alternate a hot and cold compress against the side of your mouth, 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off. Doing so will help you limit your risk of inflammation, which is the common cause of discomfort. If we prescribe any medications, take them as directed. Otherwise, an over-the-counter pain reliever is typically all you need to have on hand.
Stock your kitchen several soft foods, such as pudding, yogurt, cottage cheese or ice cream. The first few days you will want to be sure to stay hydrated but avoid drinking through a straw as this could dislodge your clot.
NEED A TOOTH PULLED?
Schedule an exam and X-ray with our family dentist to find out whether your tooth can be restored or needs to be removed. New patients are always welcome! Contact us today to get started.
* Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.