Tooth Extractions

Tooth extraction is classified into two main types, depending on the condition of the tooth:

• Simple Tooth Extraction: Ideal for teeth visible above the gum line, allowing for a straightforward removal with tools such as an elevator and forceps. Local anesthesia ensures a painless procedure.
• Surgical Tooth Extraction: Necessary for teeth below the gum line or impacted wisdom teeth, requiring an incision into the gums. This procedure might involve the removal of bone and the use of general anesthesia or light sedation, tailored to the complexity of the extraction.
  

everal dental conditions might necessitate the removal of a tooth, including but not limited to:

• Impacted wisdom teeth causing pain and discomfort
• Pericoronitis, an inflammation of the gum tissue around a tooth
• Severely broken or infected teeth
• Preparation for dental treatments such as chemotherapy or addressing immune disorders

For those dealing with impacted teeth or pericoronitis, understanding the risks and seeking timely intervention is crucial. Learn more about wisdom teeth removal and pericoronitis treatment at Bay Area OSM.

DOES A TOOTH EXTRACTION HURT?

With the help of medication, your tooth extraction surgery should be relatively pain-free. A local anesthetic will be used at the extraction site to block the pain. You will also have the choice of using a sedative. Sedatives can help you feel very relaxed throughout the surgery. Before your procedure, the surgeons at Bay Area OSM will arrange a consultation to determine the best medication for you. After the surgery, over-the-counter medication will be strong enough to block any pain until you have healed.

WHAT CAN I EXPECT AFTER THE TOOTH EXTRACTION?

You may return home after your tooth extraction procedure. Arrange for someone to drive you home, as the sedatives can keep you feeling drowsy until the next day. It’s a good idea to rest for a couple of days to recover, after which you can gradually return to normal activity. Your gums will be susceptible to bleeding for a few days. To prevent this, you will need to preserve the integrity of the blood clot. You can do so by avoiding crispy foods and vigorous rinsing in the mouth. Instead, try to eat soft foods for the first week before returning to your normal diet.

HOW DO I KNOW IF I’M RECOVERING WELL AFTER MY TOOTH EXTRACTION?

Your recovery after a tooth extraction will take up to a week. You will likely see some residual bleeding and swelling for a couple of days. This is something normal and to be expected. However, there are some things you should be aware of. If you notice any of the symptoms below, call the surgery office at Bay Area OSM immediately for further advice.

• Heavy bleeding or extreme pain after 4 hours since the extraction
• Indications of infection including chills
• Nausea or vomiting
• An excessive amount of discharge
• Coughing, shortness of breath, or chest pain.