When Is Tooth Extraction the Right Option?
Despite the continuous advancements in dental care, sometimes tooth extraction remains the most appropriate treatment. While many dental issues can be addressed with new techniques and materials, there are cases where extracting a tooth is the best solution to prevent further complications and relieve discomfort.
You may need a tooth extraction if:
If you’re dealing with any of these issues, contact us today and let us help you understand the best way forward for your oral health.
Tooth Extraction to Relieve Pain
Toothaches can be incredibly painful, often caused by decay, infection, or a broken tooth. While we always try the least invasive treatments, such as prescribing antibiotics, filling cavities, or performing root canal therapy, sometimes tooth extraction is the only viable option.
If these treatments haven’t resolved your problem, or if they are not suitable for your situation, tooth extraction may be necessary.
Will It Hurt?
The thought of a tooth extraction can understandably cause anxiety. However, modern extraction techniques ensure a painless and comfortable procedure. There will be no tugging or pulling involved. We use gentle and effective methods to remove your tooth with minimal discomfort.
Our skilled dentists will explain every step of the procedure to you, so you’ll know exactly what to expect. If you feel anxious, we offer sedation options to help calm your nerves. During the extraction, you will be given a local anaesthetic, ensuring the area around the tooth is completely numb. You will feel some firm pressure, but no pain, and the tooth will be loosened before being carefully removed. If you prefer, we can provide relaxing sedatives to help ease your anxiety.
For multiple extractions, relaxing sedation may be recommended to ensure your comfort throughout the process.
After the Extraction
Once the tooth is removed, we will place a dressing over the socket and ask you to bite down gently to apply pressure. There will be some bleeding, but this should stop quickly with the dressing in place. In cases like impacted wisdom teeth, a few stitches may be necessary.
After your procedure, you’ll be able to go home to rest. Expect some discomfort over the next few days, which can be managed with painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, and by applying an ice pack (wrapped in a tea towel) to reduce swelling. Eating soft foods and avoiding hot foods and drinks while your mouth is still numb will also aid recovery. Be cautious when chewing to avoid injury as the numbness wears off.
Self-Care After Tooth Extraction
You can resume brushing and flossing, but be gentle around the extraction site. Avoid smoking, as it can slow down the healing process and increase the risk of infection.
We will discuss your next steps with you, such as options for replacing the tooth with an implant, bridge, or denture, or leaving the space empty. Typically, we’ll schedule a follow-up appointment to ensure that your mouth is healing properly.
Contact Us Today
If you’re experiencing tooth pain or believe you may need an extraction due to overcrowding, orthodontic needs, or gum disease, get in touch with us. We’re here to discuss your treatment options and help you regain comfort and oral health.
Call us at 020 8546 0011 or use our contact form to schedule an appointment with us today.
Fill in the form below and our team will be in touch monumentarily.
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