Many healthy people take their teeth for granted; they brush, floss, visit the dentist regularly, and assume their pearly whites will stick around for a lifetime. However, there may come a time when it is necessary to have a tooth – or several teeth – extracted. The idea of removing teeth can be distressing, but if you know what to expect, you can have a more positive experience.
Why Would You Need a Dental Extraction?
There are many reasons why someone might need Tooth Extraction In Austin Tx. A common reason you may already be familiar with is overcrowding. When there is not enough room for all of your teeth to fit comfortably in your mouth, you need to remove some to keep the other teeth from getting pushed together. Another reason to extract teeth is the weakening of the bones due to advanced periodontal disease. Also, if you have been in an accident and have broken or damaged teeth, your dentist may need to remove those that can not be saved. One more reason for dental extraction is infection in a tooth that does not respond to treatment, such as a root canal.
What Happens During the Extraction?
Your Tooth Extraction in Austin Tx will be performed by either a dentist or an oral surgeon. You will first receive an injection of local anesthetic that will numb the area where the extraction will be performed (you may receive general anesthesia if many teeth will be removed). The dentist will cut into the gum where the tooth is and secure it with forceps. He or she will gently pry the tooth out of the socket and pack the area with gauze, and if necessary, a few stitches. These helps keep the blood clot that forms in the socket in place and prevents a painful condition called “dry socket.”
Aftercare for Your Dental Extraction
It is important to avoid drinking hot beverages or eating hot food immediately following your extraction, as the anesthetic will not have worn off yet completely, and you may burn your mouth. Your dentist will likely recommend a diet of soft, bland food for a day or two. Do not drink out of a straw for at least the first 24 hours. You must not smoke, and only rinse your mouth out gently to avoid disturbing the blood clot in the socket. It is normal to feel sore, but if you experience lingering or extreme pain, let your dentist know. He or she may prescribe pain medication. Also, if you have persistent bleeding, call your dentist right away.
The very idea of dental extraction may cause you to wince, but it doesn’t have to be a traumatic experience. Make sure to ask your dentist any questions you may have so that he or she can allay your fears. Remember, the professional performing your extraction will do everything possible to make it as painless as possible. Relax, and say goodbye to that troublesome tooth!