Dental extractions are common dental procedures performed to remove teeth that are damaged, decayed, or causing oral health issues.

Reasons for Dental Extractions:

• Severe Decay: Teeth with extensive decay that cannot be restored with fillings or crowns may need to be extracted.
• Gum Disease: Advanced periodontal disease can cause teeth to become loose and may necessitate extraction.
• Impacted Wisdom Teeth: Wisdom teeth that are impacted or causing crowding may need to be extracted to prevent complications.
• Orthodontic Treatment: Sometimes, teeth need to be extracted to make room for orthodontic treatment, such as braces.
• Trauma: Teeth that are severely damaged due to injury or trauma may require extraction.

Procedure:

1. Evaluation: The dentist examines the tooth and evaluates the need for extraction, considering factors such as the extent of damage, patient’s overall health, and available treatment options.
2. Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area around the tooth, ensuring a pain-free procedure.
3. Extraction: Using specialized instruments, the dentist loosens the tooth from its socket and gently removes it from the jawbone.
4. Post-Extraction Care: After the tooth is extracted, the dentist may place a gauze pad over the socket to control bleeding and promote clotting. Patients are given instructions on how to care for the extraction site and manage any discomfort.

Types of Extractions:

• Simple Extraction: Involves removing a tooth that is visible in the mouth and can be easily accessed by the dentist.
• Surgical Extraction: Required for teeth that are impacted, broken at the gumline, or difficult to access. It may involve making an incision in the gum tissue to access the tooth.

Aftercare:

• Follow Instructions: Patients should follow post-extraction instructions provided by the dentist, including avoiding certain foods and activities.
• Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage any discomfort after the extraction.
• Maintain Oral Hygiene: It’s important to continue brushing and flossing, avoiding the extraction site until it heals.
• Follow-up: Patients should attend follow-up appointments to monitor healing and address any concerns.