Not sure if you need a tooth extraction procedure? Reach out to Magnolia Dental for an appointment.
Losing teeth is not only for children; it’s necessary for adults to have their teeth pulled. But adults don’t anticipate their teeth falling out, hide the fallen tooth under the pillow, and wait for the tooth fairy. Tooth extractions aren’t fantasy — it’s a serious procedure that comes with a lot of responsibility.
While adult teeth are meant to be permanent, issues such as tooth decay or periodontal disease interfere with oral health.
Getting your teeth pulled still poses a lot of questions, especially from those who have never had a tooth extraction. There is a simple extraction and a surgical extraction; while both are standard procedures, surgical extractions are needed when a tooth is severely broken down and needs to be extracted in pieces. This is how a surgical tooth extraction is performed.
Step 1: Administer Anesthesia
The first thing your dentist will do is give you anesthesia. Administering anesthesia will put your tooth sleep during the procedure; you also won’t feel any pain. If you prefer to be sedated more than the effects of Nitrous oxide or Halcion, your dentist will refer you to an oral surgeon.
Step 2: Create a Flap
A surgical flap is an incision your dentist makes along your gum line. This will allow the dentist to easily see the root of your tooth and see your tooth’s decay. This is not needed in all case of surgical extraction.
Step 3: Removal of Bone
When your gum line is cut, the dentist will then separate the ligaments from your tooth with a tool called a periotome. This will help the dentist remove the bone that’s holding your tooth. Once the ligament is cut, the dentist will drill the tooth in different parts. The dentist does this to adequately prepare the tooth for removal while not affecting the nerves.
Step 4: Extraction of the Tooth or Roots
The bone and ligaments are no longer attached to the tooth so that the dentist can remove the tooth. Your dentist will move the tooth in a back-and-forth motion so the tooth can be eased out. This is important because the bones in your jaw are very sensitive. This back-and-forth motion helps to effectively take the tooth out without using too much force. A dentist usually uses one of two tools: a pair of forceps or an “elevator” that looks similar to a screwdriver. Once the tooth is in a position where it can be removed, the dentist will remove it gently with the forceps.
Different Teeth Call for Different Extraction Processes
Not all teeth are extracted the same. The dentist will perform the procedure that’s the safest and most effective, and it boils down to the health of the patient and the tooth. Here are some factors the dentist will consider.
Single-Rooted Tooth
When it’s a single-rooted tooth, the flap is cut in an L-Shape. The buccal plate, which covers the surface of the root, is removed. From here, the tooth is extracted with forceps.
Multi-Rooted Tooth
After the flap is created, part of the buccal plate is removed. The tooth is then sectioned off, depending on the shape of the tooth and the root, to be cut in sections. Then the mesial part of the tooth, or the crown and root, are extracted first. The run of the tooth is extracted after.
Deciduous Teeth
Deciduous teeth, or baby teeth, also have special preparations. The flap is created, and the bone and root are removed. The molar is sectioned off based on the shape of the crown. The tooth is finally removed in sections.
Ankylosed Tooth
This tooth lost a ligament; therefore the bone bonded with the root. When the flap is created, the tooth is removed with the ankylosed labial plate.
Retained Root
A retained root is only a piece of the root of your tooth; the root usually becomes retained when there’s an injury. An incision is made, and the flap is formed. The buccal plate is first removed and then whatever is left of the root is extracted. Then, the tooth is removed, and the bone is filed.
Two-Rooted Tooth
When a tooth has two roots, this makes extraction relatively difficult. First, the flap is created. The buccal plate is removed, and the roots are separated. Luxation of the roots is performed, and the roots are removed.
Removing Root Tips
When removing the tips of the roots, a specific incision called the semilunar incision is used. First, the buccal plate is removed to show the bone. Then, the root is removed.
After the Procedure
There are many ways the dentist can go ahead with the post-operative procedure, and it all depends on your dental condition, treatment needed and the reason behind the tooth extraction. Some dentists immediately insert an implant where the tooth was removed. A tooth socket graft can also be performed, which prevents bone resorption. Some dentists even let the wound heal itself.
The dentist will suture the gums for healing. Your dentist will usually prescribe antibiotics to prevent infection and help you manage any pain. Common antibiotics prescribed include Amoxicillin and Clindamyocin.
Now You Know What to Expect from a Greenville Tooth Extraction
It's confusing and scary when your dentist tells you that you need a tooth extraction. But, knowing exactly what occurs during the procedure will help alleviate anxiety. Getting a tooth extracted can benefit anywhere between reducing an overcrowded mouth and preventing an infection. Your dentist recommends a tooth extraction because they believe that’s what will help you and your oral health.
If you’re unsure about your oral health, contact a Greenville dentist at Magnolia Dental and book an appointment.