Sometimes teeth are not as strong as we would like them to be. If a tooth is damaged or has decay, then tooth extraction is necessary (It is the same as having a tooth pulled). If a tooth is beyond repair, then it must be extracted. At 32 Pearls Tacoma, we provide affordable tooth extraction.
There are other reasons why a dentist needs to pull a tooth or teeth. There might be too many teeth in your mouth, which leads to overcrowding. We refer to an excess of teeth as impact teeth. Impact teeth jam and overlap in the mouth. If you are getting your teeth straightened and have overlapping, jammed teeth, or crowding, the dentist needs to extract them. After the extraction, ample room is provided for teeth to grow straight. You may also have teeth extracted to prepare for implants.
Common Reasons For Dental Extractions
- A badly damaged tooth
- Too many teeth
- Wisdom teeth
- To prepare for oral surgery
- A broken tooth
- Infection or tooth decay
- Periodontal disease
- Implants
Types of Tooth Extractions
There are two types of extractions. One is called a simple extraction, and the other is a surgical extraction.
A simple extraction is the removal of a visible tooth including the front or side teeth. A surgical extraction is more involved and removes teeth that are wedged or impacted in the jaw. These are usually located in the back. A surgical extraction is more difficult because the dentist needs to cut an incision in the gums to expose the tooth.
Regardless of which procedure you require, the staff at 32 Pearls makes you very comfortable. They are highly experienced and use state-of-the-art technology. Your experience is always a positive one at 32 Pearls.
Stop the toothaches.
If a tooth is causing you pain daily, there is a chance that you have tooth decay or periodontitis. A tooth extraction may bring relief to your pain. We take every effort to save your tooth first. We make sure tooth extraction is the last possible choice. 32 Pearls will discuss with you the best options available for replacement teeth.
Tooth Extraction Process
Tooth Extraction has evolved.
Tooth extraction has come a long way, and we now have great technology that makes the process of extraction easier and better than before. Engineers developed a screw and lever arm system to loosen and raise teeth without injury to the bone or gums. The dentist uses an internal screw and lever arm system that simplifies the process and makes healing easier.
The process described below is the classic process of tooth extraction.
Simple Extraction
Anesthesia will numb the teeth and the surrounding area. Anxiety is normal for this type of procedure and if you have any concerns, feel free to speak to us beforehand. We have the necessary means to help you relax.
The tooth is loosened and raised with a tool called an elevator. Different sizes and types of forceps help pull out the teeth.
Please see our service page on Sedation Dentistry and our blog Calming Anxiety at the Dentist for more information on how to make your tooth extraction anxiety-free.
Surgical Extraction
Dental surgery for extraction removes teeth lodged under the gumline. The dentist cuts a tiny incision above the tooth. During surgery, the tooth is removed the same way as in the simple extraction.
Steps for tooth extraction surgery
- A shot of anesthesia numbs your tooth, bone, and gums.
- The dentist expands and stretches the socket that holds the tooth.
- After enlarging the socket, the dentist separates the tooth from the ligament attached to the socket.
- The dentist oscillates the tooth back and forth until it comes out.
A blood clot forms after the tooth is extracted and naturally closes the area. The blood clot is an important part of the process because it keeps away bacteria from the extraction. This step happens during the healing stage. Stitches or gauze support the clot, so it remains in place.
Healing at home after your procedure
Healing is different for everyone, and there is no precise answer when you will feel 100%. Follow the guidelines below, feel free to ask questions, and give yourself time to rest.
- Be sure to follow all the instructions given to you before leaving the office.
- Take prescribed medications for pain.
- Keep the gauze in your mouth as long as tolerated, or about three to four hours after the procedure.
- You may use an ice bag for up to ten minutes at a time. However, leaving ice on the affected area longer can damage tissue.
- Rest for 24 hours and limit your activity.
- Only use a rinse solution if recommended by your dentist or the dental staff.
- Refrain from smoking and consuming alcohol.
- Soft foods are best for faster recovery
Be sure to keep in touch with us. Please come in for your follow-up appointments. Call us immediately if you are experiencing tooth pain. The earlier you come in, the easier it may be to save your tooth from extraction. If you do need a tooth extraction in Tacoma, give 32 Pearls a call.
