Tooth extraction is a procedure to remove a tooth from its socket. It is commonly performed; and, may be a simple extraction or a surgical extraction. The most common reason for tooth extraction is removing seriously damaged teeth (e.g., excessive tooth decay, fractured or broken teeth). The procedure may also be used to reduce dental crowding or the risk of infection when a tooth cannot erupt fully (e.g., impacted tooth).
Before we perform any tooth extraction at Children's Dental Health Associates, P.C., we will always consult the parent(s), review the patient's medical and dental history, and take an x-ray. The x-ray helps us to determine the best way to extract the tooth.
In some cases, our dentists may prescribe antibiotics for the patient to take before the procedure. Patients may also need to prepare for anesthesia that may be used, such as not eating several hours before the procedure and having a parent or guardian take them home.
A simple tooth extraction can usually be accomplished in any of our offices using only local anesthesia.
Bleeding is normal after a tooth extraction and may last about a day. A gauze pad applied to the extraction site helps to control the bleeding. Pain, swelling or jaw stiffness generally lasts no more than a couple of days after the procedure and may be treated with medications and warm or cold compresses. To keep the site clean, gently rinsing the mouth with warm salt water can be used several times a day but only after the first day. See also “After Extraction Home Care Instructions”.
