Extractions
A tooth extraction is indicated when all other options to save a tooth have ceased. Some examples include:
- a severely decayed unrestorable tooth,
- a tooth with a vertical through-and-through crack,
- teeth with severe gum disease and extremely mobile teeth,
- a tooth with untreatable infection,
- to gain space in the jaw for orthodontic purposes,
- impacted painful wisdom teeth,
- full clearance extractions of hopeless teeth for dentures.
Normally, a simple tooth extraction is done under local anaesthesia in the chair. Modern day anaesthetics are very effective in anesthetising the tooth and jaw. Even wisdom teeth can be extracted chairside after prior assessment by the dentist. Extremely complicated wisdom teeth may need sedation or general anaesthetic.
Pain and swelling can be expected after extraction and this is the normal inflammatory process. Patients should follow postoperative instructions carefully after extraction of teeth. This includes avoiding chewing on the extraction side, no smoking and alcohol, rinsing with saltwater, taking painkillers and avoiding spitting blood after extraction to preserve the blood clot. Failure to follow instructions may result in dry socket.