Tooth Extraction in Braddon, Canberra
While dentists always aim to save natural teeth whenever possible, tooth extraction may be necessary when a tooth is severely decayed, infected, or causing pain, or if it is beyond restoration due to damage. At Braddon Dental Surgery, we understand that the idea of tooth extraction can be daunting for many, which is why we prioritize a gentle and expert approach to ensure your comfort throughout the entire process
What Is Tooth Extraction?
Tooth extraction is a safe and common dental procedure used to address damaged, decayed, or problematic teeth that cannot be repaired with other treatments.
Reasons for Tooth Extraction
Because of developments in dental treatment techniques, teeth are extracted less frequently. However there are some cases when extraction is the best treatment option.
- Extensive damage: if a tooth is badly decayed or damaged due to trauma.
- Advanced gum disease: if untreated, periodontal disease causes loss of bone support around teeth, causing them to become loose within the socket. Despite treatment, sometimes saving a loose tooth may not be possible.
- Structural damage: teeth that are under increased chewing pressure can become cracked. Sometimes this leads to splitting of the tooth or roots making repair impossible.
- Teeth with no function: if a tooth has no opposing partner, it may be better to have it removed.
- Crowding: if there is severe crowding, it may be recommended to have some teeth removed before starting orthodontic treatment.
The Tooth Extraction Process
Your dentist will examine your tooth with x-rays and after discussion and careful consideration, it may be decided that tooth extraction is the best treatment option for you. We use local anaesthetic to numb the area where your tooth is to be extracted. In some cases we can also provide nitrous-oxide sedation to make you feel more comfortable.
The method of extraction will vary depending on the type of tooth and its roots or position within the jaw. Some teeth are relatively easy to remove, while others can be difficult. Your dentist may decide it is best to refer you to a specialist if the tooth is expected to be complicated to extract.
Recovery and Aftercare for Tooth Extraction
You can expect some pain and discomfort in the days following a tooth extraction. Depending on the number of teeth removed, you may need to take time off work, school or other duties. Here are some after-care tips for tooth extraction:
- Rest – avoid any strenuous exercise or exertion
- Eat soft foods for the first few days
- Drink lots of fluids
- Icepacks may be used to reduce swelling and pain
Benefits of Tooth Extraction
Tooth extraction offers several important benefits, particularly when dealing with severely damaged or infected teeth. Some benefits of tooth extraction include:
- Relieve Pain: One of the most immediate benefits of tooth extraction is pain relief. Severely decayed or infected teeth can cause persistent, intense pain. Removing the tooth eliminates this pain, allowing you to feel better quickly.
- Prevent the Spread of Infection: If a tooth is infected, it can spread bacteria to surrounding teeth and tissues, potentially leading to more severe infections like abscesses. Extracting the infected tooth helps prevent the infection from spreading and causing further health problems.
- Preserve Oral Health: In cases where a tooth is severely damaged or decayed, extraction helps prevent additional damage to surrounding teeth. It also reduces the risk of developing gum disease or other oral health issues due to the compromised tooth.
- Facilitate Further Treatments: Sometimes, tooth extraction is a necessary step before other dental procedures, such as dental implants, bridges, or dentures, to restore function and appearance. Removing a problematic tooth opens the way for more effective long-term solutions.
- Improve Chewing and Speech Function: When a tooth is severely damaged or decayed, it may affect your ability to chew or speak properly. Extracting the tooth can improve your ability to eat and speak comfortably, especially if the tooth was causing discomfort or making it hard to bite and chew.
By opting for a tooth extraction when necessary, you help preserve your overall oral health, relieve pain, and pave the way for future treatments that can restore your smile and oral function.
Tooth Extraction FAQs
Is tooth extraction painful?
After local anaesthetic, during a tooth extraction you will feel lots of pressure and movement of the tooth but no pain. Pain and discomfort is expected following an extraction just as you would from any wound as it is healing.
How long does it take to recover from an extraction?
In general, pain and discomfort from the extraction area will last for about 3-5 days following removal of a tooth. Depending on the difficulty of the procedure, you may need to take some time off work, school or other duties.
What can I eat after a tooth extraction?
You will be instructed not to eat until the anaesthetic wears off, and in the first few days following an extraction you may want to eat softer foods. This may include soups, yoghurt, custards, etc.
When can I return to normal activities?
It is recommended you refrain from any strenuous activities or exercise within the first 24-48 hours following an extraction. Once you start to feel back to normal, you can return to regular activities.
What happens if I don’t replace an extracted tooth?
There may be a few expected issues if you leave the space where a tooth has been extracted, these include:
- Decreased function and chewing ability
- Shifting of adjacent teeth, including over-eruption of upper teeth (where it’s opposing lower tooth is missing)
- Affected aesthetics or speech
However, in some cases you may not experience any of the above. Your dentist will discuss with you the best treatment plan that will suit you.
For more information or to make an appointment contact us today, or book your appointment online.
