Sometimes tooth pain can’t be managed with just a filling or a crown. Luckily, your dentist can employ other strategies. For individuals who have extensive oral pain or tooth decay, the solution might be a tooth extraction. Here’s what you should know about the procedure. 

What Is a Tooth Extraction?

When decay or infection causes irreparable damage to a tooth, an extraction may be necessary. The entire tooth is entirely removed from the mouth, usually under general anesthesia. The gums and jaw bone are normally left to heal on their own before an anchor for dental implants can be put in. 

Why People Need Extractions

Extractions are a common oral surgery, and they are done for many reasons, including injury and illness. Here are the most common reasons why someone may need to have a tooth removed: 

• Decay deep within the tooth pulp 
• Fractured or cracked teeth 
• Impacted growing molars, such as wisdom teeth 
• Loss of bone around the tooth due to gum disease 

What to Expect During the Procedure 

During the tooth extraction, your dentist will numb the area or put you under general anesthesia. They will then move the gums out of the way of the tooth, particularly around the roots. They loosen the tooth with pressure before it is popped out of the socket. The dentist will then clean the area before stitching and padding it with gauze. 

What Does Aftercare Look Like?

Keep the gauze in place with firm pressure for about four hours after the extraction or when the bleeding stops. For the first 24 hours after surgery, you’ll want to be careful with drinking and rinsing. Eat soft foods, such as applesauce and soups, gradually building up to solid foods as the site heals. You should be able to return to normal work and home activity after 24 hours. 

If you’re looking for personable, patient-centered dental care, then Hill Country Dental Associates in Kerrville, TX, is your next stop. Their experienced technicians can facilitate a quick and painless tooth extraction and also provide teeth whitening, dentures, and other oral care services. Learn more about their preventative and restorative dental options by visiting their website or calling (830) 257-3000.