Tooth Extraction
Painful Tooth?
What Is Tooth Extraction?
Tooth extraction is a dental procedure in which a tooth is removed from its socket in the jawbone. It is typically performed when a tooth is severely damaged, decayed, infected, or causing other dental issues.
Reasons for Tooth Extraction:
- Severe Decay: When a tooth is extensively decayed and cannot be restored with a filling or crown, extraction may be necessary to prevent further damage to surrounding teeth.
- Gum Disease: Advanced gum disease (periodontitis) can cause loosening of the teeth, making extraction necessary to preserve oral health.
- Impacted Wisdom Teeth: Wisdom teeth (third molars) that are impacted (unable to fully erupt) or causing crowding, pain, infection, or damage to adjacent teeth may need to be extracted.
- Orthodontic Treatment: In some cases, tooth extraction may be necessary as part of orthodontic treatment to create space for proper alignment of the remaining teeth.
- Trauma or Injury: Teeth that are fractured, broken, or severely damaged due to trauma or injury may need to be extracted if they cannot be repaired.
- Overcrowding: Extraction may be necessary to alleviate overcrowding of teeth, especially in cases where there is insufficient space for proper alignment.
Types of Tooth Extraction
Simple Extraction
This is performed on teeth that are visible in the mouth and can be removed using forceps. Local anaesthesia is typically used to numb the area, and the tooth is gently rocked back and forth until it loosens and can be lifted out of the socket.
Surgical Extraction
This is performed on teeth that are impacted (unable to fully erupt) or broken off at the gumline. It may require an incision in the gum tissue and/or removal of bone around the tooth before extraction. Sedation or general anaesthesia may be used for comfort during the procedure.
What to Expect During a Tooth Extraction:
- Evaluation: Your dentist will evaluate your oral health and may take X-rays to assess the tooth and surrounding structures.
- Anaesthesia: Local anaesthesia is typically administered to numb the area around the tooth being extracted. For surgical extractions or anxious patients, sedation or general anaesthesia may also be used.
- Extraction: The tooth is gently loosened and removed from its socket using specialized instruments. In some cases, the tooth may need to be sectioned into smaller pieces for easier removal.
- Aftercare Instructions: Your dentist will provide instructions on caring for the extraction site, including information on pain management, swelling, bleeding, and oral hygiene.
- Healing: The extraction site will gradually heal over the following days and weeks. It’s essential to follow your dentist’s post-operative instructions to promote healing and prevent complications.
Aftercare and Recovery:
- Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers or prescription medications may be recommended to manage discomfort after the procedure.
- Bleeding and Swelling: Minor bleeding and swelling are common after tooth extraction and can be managed with gentle pressure and cold compresses applied to the outside of the face.
- Soft Diet: Stick to soft foods and avoid chewing on the extraction site to prevent irritation or disruption of the healing process.
- Oral Hygiene: Continue to brush and floss your teeth gently, avoiding the extraction site to prevent infection. Your dentist may recommend a special mouthwash or saltwater rinse to aid in healing.
- Follow-up Appointments: Schedule a follow-up appointment with your dentist to monitor healing and remove any sutures if necessary.
Complications and When to Contact Your Dentist:
While tooth extraction is generally safe, complications can occur. Contact your dentist if you experience:
- Excessive bleeding that doesn’t stop with pressure.
- Severe pain or swelling.
- Signs of infection (fever, chills, pus).
- Persistent numbness or tingling in the lips or tongue.
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing.
Final Thoughts:
Tooth extraction may be necessary to alleviate pain, prevent further dental problems, or improve overall oral health. While the thought of extraction may seem daunting, advances in dental technology and techniques have made the procedure safer and more comfortable than ever before. If you have concerns about a tooth that may need to be extracted, don’t hesitate to discuss your options with our caring team at King Street Dental. They can provide guidance and personalized care to ensure the best possible outcome for your oral health.
Our 5-Step Denture Procedure
At King Street Dental, we offer safe, comfortable and reliable treatment to our patients. Our dentists have performed countless denture replacements and fittings successfully and gained acute satisfaction from being able to help their patients chew, smile, and talk easily again.
We offer a simple 5-step denture procedure that begins with a patient’s initial consultation and taking their first oral impression. After your dentures are produced, our dentist will remove your tooth/teeth and fit your dentures right away.
After two weeks, our dentists will review your dentures and examine the healing process. Then, after three to six months, we will adjust and reline your dentures to make sure they remain effective and comfortable. Lastly, your dentures will require to be replaced every 8-10 years on average, specifically when your facial structure starts to change as you grow older..
Discover the Smiles at King Street Dental
Do you want to consider dentures or are your existing dentures causing you problems? Our professional yet friendly team is always available to answer all your questions and suggest the required solutions. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
If you are experiencing dental pain, call us to book an appointment so we can get your problem solved as soon as possible. We take emergency appointments every day so that you don’t have to wait and suffer in pain.
At King Street Dental, emergency appointments are available both before and after hours daily, contact us at (02) 4929 4143.
Our Dentists
Meet our exceptional dentists at King Street Dental! With expertise, compassion, and a commitment to your smile, they provide top-notch dental care you can trust.
Dr. Sheikha Singh BDS
Dentist
Dr Hooman Atai
Dentist
Dr Livana Hamad
Associate Dentist
You’re In good Hands
Welcome to King Street Dental, where you’re in good hands! Our dedicated team of experienced dentists and friendly staff is here to ensure your dental journey is comfortable and stress-free. From routine check-ups to advanced treatments, we prioritise your oral health and overall well-being.
Our cutting-edge technology and state-of-the-art facilities allow us to deliver exceptional dental care with precision and efficiency. Whether you need a routine cleaning, cosmetic enhancement, or restorative procedure, we tailor our services to meet your unique needs. We know that visiting the dentist can be daunting for some, which is why we create a welcoming and warm environment to put you at ease.
Your comfort and satisfaction are our top priorities, and we go the extra mile to make every visit a positive and enjoyable experience. Trust King Street Dental for comprehensive, compassionate, and personalised dental care for you and your family.
