How Common Are Tooth Extractions in Dentistry
If you need a tooth extraction this can be a stressful experience. You can rest easier knowing that a diagnosis for tooth extraction is one of the most common dental procedures in the United States. In addition, knowing more about the procedure can reduce fear by providing more information about the procedure and what to expect. If you have been diagnosed as needing a tooth extraction the following information will help put your mind at ease.
Why You May Need a Tooth Extraction
There are many reasons for tooth extractions, the majority of them related to some type of trauma to your teeth. Some of the most common causes include a hard blow to the jaw which can be caused by accidents, sports injuries, and other sudden hits to the face, gum disease, tooth decay, and a lack of space in your dental arch resulting in crowding. When tooth extractions are necessary you will have noticeable discomfort that in some cases can get worse without professional care.
Can Tooth Extraction Be Avoided?
Before any extraction, you will be informed of all options that are available for your dental care. In some cases alternative treatments such as a root channel, filling, or crown may be able to save your tooth however, each situation is different and the best course of action will depend on your unique condition. To answer ‘can tooth extraction be avoided’ – it depends. A dental professional will always try to save a tooth if possible.
The Advantages of Tooth Extraction
Having a damaged tooth pull does offer many advantages. One of the most important of these is that it reduces the chance harmful bacteria will further damage your other teeth and gums. A damaged tooth can quickly become decayed spreading bacteria to other parts of your mouth further reducing your dental health. Removing it prevents these future issues from occurring. Additionally, a damaged tooth is painful and often uncomfortable. Removing a damaged tooth eases the pain that it causes.
Recovery and Aftercare
Having a tooth pulled has a faster recovery time than you may think. You can start feeling better within just a few days. While you can be back to your normal daily activities within roughly three days it does take several weeks for your mouth to heal completely. If you plan to replace your removed tooth with an implant, allow yourself the proper amount of time to heal before doing so, your dentist will advise you on the correct time frame. After having a tooth pulled it’s important to take proper care of yourself to ensure you heal and recover properly.
The following tooth extraction tips will help with care:
- Keep Your Mouth Clean: You should rinse with an antimicrobial mouthwash two or three times every day to prevent infection and help your mouth heal. You should also avoid brushing the area where the tooth was pulled until it has time to heal. Be sure to brush and floss the rest of your mouth normally.
- Take Your Medication: Your dentist may prescribe medication to assist in your recovery. Be sure to exactly follow the directions on taking any prescriptions. Common medications for tooth extraction recovery include pain relievers and antibiotics.
- Eat The Right Foods: Avoid hard foods during the first few days of your recovery. Eat softer foods such as yogurt, eggs, pasta, and any other soft foods you enjoy. Also, avoid straws as they can bump against the sensitive areas in your mouth that are healing.
- Relax: Raising your blood pressure for the first few days of recovery can cause bleeding to extraction areas, so you will want to avoid strenuous activities and high-impact workouts. Commonly you can safely return to the gym after two to three days but be sure to ask your dentist as every case is different.
When You Need Dental Care You Can Trust
At Hebert Family Dentistry we strive for the best in dental care using the latest advancements in the dental industry. When you need dental care you can trust, reach out to us today. We help patients in north Lafayette and surrounding communities, and we look forward to helping you.