Patient Education: Tooth Extractions & Wisdom Teeth Removal

Tooth extraction is a common dental procedure to remove teeth that are damaged, infected, or causing problems for your oral health. While we always prefer to save natural teeth, sometimes removal is the best option to protect your overall dental well-being.

When Is a Tooth Extraction Needed?

Your dentist may recommend extraction for:

• Severe tooth decay beyond repair

• Advanced gum disease causing loose teeth

• Impacted teeth (especially wisdom teeth)

• Crowding issues before orthodontic treatment

• Fractured teeth that can't be restored

• Risk of infection in immunocompromised patients

Types of Extractions

1. Simple Extraction

• For visible teeth above the gumline

• Performed under local anesthesia

• Uses dental instruments to loosen and remove tooth

• Quick procedure (usually 20-40 minutes)

2. Surgical Extraction

• Required for:

  • Broken teeth at gumline

  • Impacted teeth (like wisdom teeth)

  • Teeth with curved/long roots

• May involve:

  • Local anesthesia with sedation options

  • Small gum incision

  • Possible bone removal

  • Stitches to close the site

Wisdom Teeth Special Considerations

Third molars ("wisdom teeth") often require removal because:
✔ They become impacted (trapped in jawbone/gums)
✔ Cause crowding of other teeth
✔ Lead to cysts or infections
✔ Are difficult to clean, promoting decay

Best removal age: Late teens to early 20s (when roots aren't fully formed)

The Extraction Process

1. Preparation

   • Review of medical history

   • X-rays to evaluate tooth position

   • Anesthesia options discussed

2. Procedure

   • Numbing the area completely

   • Gentle tooth removal

   • Cleaning the socket

   • Stitches if needed

   • Gauze placement to control bleeding

3. Recovery

   • 30-60 minutes of pressure on gauze

   • Ice packs to reduce swelling

   • Detailed aftercare instructions

   • Follow-up if needed

Aftercare Instructions

Do:
✓ Take prescribed medications as directed
✓ Use ice packs for swelling (20 on/20 off)
✓ Eat soft foods for 2-3 days
✓ Keep the area clean with gentle rinsing
✓ Rest for 24-48 hours

Avoid:
✗ Smoking or using straws (can dislodge clot)
✗ Vigorous rinsing/spitting
✗ Hard, crunchy, or hot foods
✗ Strenuous activity for 2-3 days

Potential Complications (Rare)

• Dry socket (if blood clot dislodges)

• Temporary numbness

• Minor bleeding

• Swelling/discomfort

Call us if you experience:

• Severe pain not helped by medication

• Excessive bleeding

• Fever or signs of infection

• Numbness lasting beyond 8 hours

Replacement Options After Extraction

To prevent shifting teeth:

• Dental implants (most natural solution)

• Bridges

• Partial dentures
  (We'll discuss the best option for your case)

Modern extractions are much more comfortable than you might imagine. We offer various sedation options to ensure your experience is as easy as possible.