The last course of treatment your dentist near you will advise is tooth extraction. You may still experience dental problems and require tooth extractions even after maintaining proper oral hygiene. Sometimes tooth extractions are necessary to avoid major dental health concerns. It is required if you have impacted teeth, gum disease, damaged teeth from cavities or trauma, or if you have overcrowded teeth that need to be corrected with braces.  Tooth extraction is a simple procedure that can be completed in a single visit. In this article, you will learn and get an overview of tooth extraction treatment. 

How To Prepare For Tooth Extractions? 

Before considering tooth extractions it is important to consult with your dentist if it is the right treatment to consider. When you visit your dentist to get tooth extractions near you they will examine your teeth by taking an x-ray of your damaged teeth. Ensure you talk about your medical history with your dentist to avoid any other health issues. If you have any other health conditions, consult with your dentist to make sure all your conditions are stable. Your dentist will provide you with painkillers or antibiotics if you have an infection or any other dental concern. 

Keep the following things in mind before getting your teeth extracted:

  • Wear loose-fitting clothing and avoid eating for six to eight hours prior to your appointment if your dentist has recommended getting an anesthetic.
  • Do not smoke before your treatment 
  • Reschedule treatment if you are having cold or flu
  • If you have any health concerns, talk to your dentist about changing the anesthesia or rescheduling the procedure.
  • Make sure you have reliable transportation or a person with you to drive you home if you are getting general anesthesia.

Inform your dentist if you have any of the following conditions:

  • Congenital heart disease
  • Diabetes
  • Liver disease 
  • Thyroid or renal disease 
  • Hypertension 
  • Artificial joint 
  • Damaged heart valves
  • Weak immune system 
  • Adrenal disease
  • Bacterial endocarditis

The Process

Our dentist in Thunder Bay will recommend you if you need a simple or surgical tooth extraction after examining your teeth.

Simple extraction:

Local anesthesia will be provided to numb the area around your teeth to avoid feeling any pain during the extraction. Your teeth will be loosened with an elevator, and then your dentist will remove them with forceps. It is a quick procedure that normally takes 30 to 60 minutes to complete. 

Surgical extraction:

If your tooth extraction needs to be done through surgery, you will be given both local and intravenous anesthesia. This will make you feel calm and keep you at ease. A little incision will be made into your gum by your dentist. Before having your teeth extracted, a bone around them may sometimes need to be removed.

Post-Treatment Care

The average time for the wound to heal is 10 to 15 days. It’s crucial to adhere to your dentist’s recommendations to prevent dental problems and accelerate your recovery; 

Here are some suggestions for maintaining your dental health following tooth extraction:

  • Remove and change the gauze frequently 
  • Use cold compress 
  • Take proper rest 
  • Maintain good oral hygiene
  • Avoid using straws
  • Do not spit within 24 hours 
  • Avoid smoking and consuming alcohol 
  • Consult your dentist if you experience any other side effects

Contact us and schedule your appointment to get tooth extractions in Thunder Bay. Our experts are happy to help you fix your dental health concerns.