What is a Simple Extraction?
A simple tooth extraction is a procedure that happens in dental offices everyday. The dentist removes one or multiple teeth completely during an appointment without the need for a complex or lengthy procedure. In most instances, people leave the appointment with one less tooth and minimal discomfort.
When is a simple extraction necessary?
For most people, teeth need to be removed completely if they are beyond repair with fillings, crowns, or other dental treatments. The dentist will work with you to restore and protect all your teeth as best they can, but when decay has damaged the integrity of the tooth above the gums, below the gums, or both, the tooth may need to be removed. By removing the compromised tooth, the rest of your teeth and gums have a better chance to remain healthy and stable.
Gum disease is one of the other main reasons that you could need to have a tooth removed. When gum disease is caught in its early stages, it can be stopped and even reversed. The longer it goes untreated, it can lead to weakening of the jaw bone. Without a stable base, the tooth can become loose and the inflamed gums are inadequate at preventing more bacteria from weakening the root of the tooth.
Finally, other people may need an extraction because they are experiencing overcrowding in their mouth. By removing a tooth, the dentist is allowing the rest of your teeth to fit more comfortably and your bite to come together without causing uneven pressure. A simple extraction can be used in place of orthodontics or in conjunction with them to allow the rest of your teeth to align correctly with one another.
A Simple Extraction Process
Knowing how it’s done in a simple extraction can help alleviate any fears you may have about the procedure. First your dentist will take an X-ray of the tooth to find out how bad it is, and then find the way to remove the tooth. After you no longer need the extraction, a local anesthetic is numbing the area so you feel no pain during the procedure.
Your dentist, using special dental instruments, applies pressure to the surrounding gum and bone tissue to gently loosen your tooth from the socket. The tooth is then brought to its loose state using forceps and removed. And the whole process is usually quick and you may only sense pressure instead of pain. Your dentist cleans the area, then, in some cases, places gauze to help control bleeding after the extraction.
What You Can Expect When You Begin to Heal
If you follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions on recovery after a simple tooth extraction, recovery should be smooth. In fact, at least 24 hours after the procedure, you should also avoid strenuous activities and rest. Doing this allows your body to begin the healing process and reduces your risk of complications.
To help a blood clot form in the empty socket, you'll probably be instructed to bite down on gauze. You shouldn’t disturb this clot because it serves an important purpose in healing. Do not rinse your mouth vigorously or use straws for the first 24 hours after the extraction to dislodge the clot.
Normal swelling and discomfort in the first few days are to be expected and these can normally be managed with over the counter pain relievers and ice packs. When your dentist prescribes medication, be sure to take it as directed. During the recovery period, you’re encouraged to only eat soft foods, such as soup, yogurt, and mashed potatoes. With the extraction site healing, you can slowly get back to your regular diet.