Tooth extraction is a common dental procedure that involves removing a tooth from its socket in the jawbone. While it might sound drastic, it’s often an essential step to maintain your overall oral health.
Extractions play a crucial role in preserving a healthy mouth. They address issues that could otherwise lead to pain, infection, or damage to surrounding teeth and bone.
Tooth extractions are a valuable tool for our oral surgeons to address a variety of dental problems and promote long-term oral health. If you need a tooth extracted, schedule a consultation at one of our convenient Metrowest offices.
Why Is a Tooth Extraction Necessary?
Tooth extraction is a last resort, but a necessary one in certain situations. Dentists prioritize saving your natural teeth whenever possible. However, there are times when extraction becomes the best course of action for your oral health.
Tooth decay, infection, or trauma can leave a tooth too compromised for fillings, crowns, or root canals. Extracting the tooth prevents further issues and safeguards the health of surrounding teeth.
Tooth impaction can cause pain, overcrowding, and infection. The most common example would be wisdom teeth, which we also remove.
Advanced gum disease loosens teeth and promotes infection. Extraction may be necessary to prevent bone damage and protect surrounding teeth.
And in some cases, even healthy teeth need to be removed to create proper space for teeth alignment. This is in line with orthodontic treatment, where strategic tooth extraction allows for better positioning, improving your smile’s function and aesthetics.
These are just a few examples of why you might need tooth extraction services. If you have questions about these or other reasons why, feel free to contact Metrowest Surgical Associates for more info.
Tooth Extraction Types
There are two main approaches to tooth extraction, each suited to different scenarios.
A simple extraction is the preferred method when possible. It’s a less invasive procedure typically used for teeth that are visible above the gum line and have relatively easy access.
A simple tooth extraction uses a local anesthetic to numb the area. If you suffer from anxiety about oral surgeries, we do offer other methods of numbing and sedation.
Once the area is numb, one of our oral surgeons loosens the tooth using an instrument called an elevator. Once loose, they’ll use forceps to remove the tooth from its socket. Stitches are usually not required for simple extractions.
Post Surgery Care
After your tooth extraction, here are some generic tips to follow to promote healing and avoid infection. A blood clot forms naturally to stop bleeding and kickstart healing. Bite firmly on a gauze pad for 30-45 minutes after your appointment. If slight bleeding persists, repeat with a fresh gauze pad.
Once the clot forms, avoid disturbing it for 72 hours. This means no vigorous rinsing, straw use, smoking, alcohol, or brushing near the extraction site. These actions can dislodge the clot and slow healing. Limit strenuous exercise for 24 hours to avoid increased blood pressure and potential bleeding.
Pain and swelling are common. You can apply an ice pack or frozen vegetables wrapped in a cloth to minimize swelling. Take prescribed pain medication as directed. If prescribed antibiotics, take them for the full course even if symptoms improve.
Drink plenty of fluids and stick to soft foods on the day of extraction. Gradually return to your normal diet as comfortable.
Resume your normal dental routine after 24 hours. Brush and floss gently, avoiding the extraction site initially. This promotes healing and keeps your mouth clean.
Call our office immediately if you experience heavy bleeding, severe pain, persistent swelling lasting more than 2-3 days, or a negative reaction to prescribed medications.
The Excellence of Metrowest Oral Surgical Associates
At Metrowest Oral Surgical Associates, we prioritize your comfort above all else. Your well-being is not just a checkbox for us; it’s our steadfast commitment. We genuinely care about ensuring your wisdom teeth removal process is smooth and free of pain.
We invest in cutting-edge technology to ensure efficient and optimal outcomes. Our dedication to leading rather than following sets us apart from the rest.
Our elite team is continuously enhancing patient care through ongoing education, staying at the forefront of oral surgery advancements. Choose us for a pain-free, healthier, and happier smile.
Select Metrowest Oral Surgical Associates for a team that prioritizes your journey, embraces technology, and continually works to enhance your experience. Schedule your wisdom teeth removal consultation today and experience the difference.
If you have any questions or if you’re ready to schedule your tooth extraction, don’t hesitate to reach out. Contact Metrowest Oral Surgical Associates today, conveniently located in Framingham, Northborough, and Milford, to begin your journey toward a healthier, more comfortable smile.
