Reasons for Tooth Extractions
Although permanent teeth are meant to last throughout a person’s life, a number of situations can occur that would require a tooth to be removed. The most common reason for having to undergo extraction of a tooth is when serious damage occurs to it. This could include major decay which is often the result of oral hygiene neglect. It could also be the result of a dental injury, which has made the tooth vulnerable and too much of a liability for the patient to keep.
Other times, tooth extractions are performed in order to properly align teeth through oral surgery. This may be a necessity if a person has extra teeth or an impacted tooth, which will need room to break through the gum and properly grow.
An infection in a specific tooth may also be a cause for a tooth extraction. In this case, decay has gone untreated for too long, leading to a bacterial infection of the pulp of a tooth. If the infection is severe enough and no other options are available, our doctors in Somerset County and Hunterdon County will perform an extraction.
The Extraction Procedure
Our doctors will first conduct an examination to determine if tooth extractions are needed, as it is often considered the most serious treatment option. If a patient does, in fact, need an extraction, we make it a point to make them as comfortable as possible both during and after the procedure.
Depending on the patient’s individual situation, a local or general anesthetic is administered. The tooth will then be extracted in one of a number of ways based on the condition of the damaged tooth. After the tooth is pulled, a blood clot may form in the socket. If this happens, our doctors will take the necessary steps to ensure the socket will heal correctly and allow the mouth to recover.
Sometimes the blood clot that forms in the socket becomes loose, resulting in a condition that is commonly referred to as a dry socket. When this happens, a sedative dressing is placed on top of the socket to protect it while a new blood clot develops.
Tooth extractions may sound like an uncomfortable or intimidating procedure, but our doctors in Somerset County and Hunterdon County make the process a breeze by making sure the patient’s comfort is their first priority.
Following an Extraction
After tooth extractions, a short recovery time is necessary. This typically only lasts a few days. There are a few things a patient can do to speed up the recovery process. These include:
- Applying ice to the outside of the jaw where the extraction took place.
- Anti-inflammatory drugs or prescription medication will reduce discomfort.
- Rest and relax with limited activity
- Rinse the mouth gently with water.
- Avoid smoking cigarettes.
- Eat only soft foods for the first day or two after extraction.
Let Us Provide Expert Tooth Extractions
Having a tooth removed can be a tough decision to make. However, our doctors in Somerset County and Hunterdon County make the process as painless as possible. Once the extraction has been performed, and the recovery process is complete, patients enjoy healthier, more comfortable teeth.
The Somerset Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Group has been providing compassionate care to generations of Somerset County and Hunterdon County patients. With convenient hours, and offices in Somerville, Lebanon & Hillsborough we provide unparalleled access to care for both our patients and referring doctors.
To schedule a teeth extraction consultation with one of our oral surgeons, contact our offices in the Somerset County and Hunterdon County area.