Tooth extraction is always the last line of treatment given to a patient under the condition when the tooth cannot be saved by any other alternative treatments.
Now let’s see the conditions under which a tooth is extracted:
- Tooth that is grossly decayed and cannot be saved with any other treatment.
- Advanced gum disease associated with bone loss resulting in severe mobility of the tooth.
- Fracture of the tooth which is vertical along the axis of the tooth, splitting the tooth to two halves.
- Mal positioned tooth which has disturbed the arch form.
- Impacted third molars (wisdom tooth) causing any sort of problems.
- For orthodontic treatments to create required space.
Care to be taken before extraction:
- Thorough medical and dental history of the patient will be taken by the dentist.
- Make sure you give a proper medical history as there are certain medical conditions which contraindicate extraction until the condition is under control.
- Antibiotics prescribed must be used as directed by the dentist, do not forget to mention any drug allergies if there are any.
- Do mention if pregnant.
- Do not go for the procedure on empty stomach.
Care to be taken after extraction:
- Bleeding is the most common complication after extraction, hence bite on the gauge or the cotton pressure pack that the dentist have placed in the socket for at least half an hour.
- To avoid further bleeding avoid rinsing the mouth for the day, do not spit if there is bleeding.
- Avoid drinking liquids with a straw, touching the extraction area with tongue which can disturb the clot.
- Eat soft, non spicy, cold diet for 24 hours after the procedure.
- To minimize the swelling you can place ice packs to the side of face over the extraction area 10min on and off.
- Do not smoke or consume alcohol at least for 48 hours after the surgery.
- Take the medications as per the instructions.
- Keep the area clean by mild rinsing with warm salt water after 24 hours of the procedure at least twice a day.
- If stitches placed, get it removed after a week.
- Contact you doctor if any unusual symptoms occur.