Tooth Extraction

Tooth extraction involves removing a tooth from the oral cavity. It is often a straightforward process that is performed after numbing the area using a local anesthetic injection. 

At Ralston Creek Dentistry, we try all possible means to save your teeth but perform an extraction only when teeth cannot be recovered.  

Tooth Extraction Types

Simple Extractions

When the patient's tooth to be extracted is easily visible and has roots easily removable, it is called a simple extraction. A simple extraction can be performed by a general dentist as a routine procedure and doesn't need the service of an oral surgeon.  

During a simple extraction process, the dentist will hold and loosen the tooth using a dental elevator and pull it out with the help of forceps. 

Surgical Extractions

A surgical extraction is needed if the patient's tooth is impacted or is not grown straight or broken off at the gum line. During a surgical extraction, an incision is made into the patient's gum, and the tooth is extracted by removing some bone around the tooth or by cutting it in half if needed.

When Is A Tooth Extraction Necessary?

A patient may require a tooth extraction in the following situations:

• When a tooth blocks the eruption of other teeth
• To prepare the mouth for dentures or bridgework
• If there is overcrowding in the mouth due to the presence of extra teeth
• To prepare for orthodontic treatments to correct the teeth' alignment by making way for the movement of teeth. 
• If there is a painful or impacted wisdom teeth
• If a tooth is severely fractured or chipped due to external trauma
• If the teeth are too decayed and can't be salvaged by root canal therapy

Post Extraction Care

After tooth extraction, it is vital to follow a few instructions to take good care of your oral health.

• Give your body adequate time to heal.
• Take your medications as prescribed.
• Do not engage in strenuous activities or lift any heavy objects that will move your head immediately after the extraction.
• Till the extraction site heals, eat only cold and soft foods. Do not chew hard for a few days post-extraction. 
• Do not disturb your extraction site or rinse your mouth forcefully. 
• Do not smoke for at least two days post-extraction as smoking will affect healing and prevent the formation of the clot. 
• After twenty-four hours, rinse your mouth gently using warm saltwater. 

After one to two weeks, new bone and the gum tissue will grow over the extraction site. However, having a missing tooth can affect your bite and overall oral health. So, you can take your time discussing with your doctor about replacing the missing tooth with an implant, bridge, or denture.

If you would like to know more about tooth extraction, give us a call at (303) 4222502, or visit us at Ralston Creek Dental, 10229 W 58th Ave, Arvada, CO 80002.