Tooth Extraction in St. Catharines Ontario
If a tooth is heavily fractured or decayed, the dentist will attempt to restore it with a bonded filling, dental crown or root canal therapy. Sometimes, however, a tooth is too heavily decayed to be saved so the dentist may have to remove it to maintain your smile’s health. Besides severe decay, a tooth may have to be extracted for the following reasons:
- Overcrowding of teeth
- To prepare your teeth for orthodontic treatment
- If its infected due to specific drugs which weaken your immune system
- If it's a wisdom tooth which is causing problems, such as pain, infection, or if there is insufficient space to accommodate it.
Wisdom teeth can become impacted when they only partially erupt above the gum line. This can be problematic since they can become infected and cause serious oral problems, such as pressing against nearby teeth and causing pain and damage. To prevent these problems and to preserve your smile’s health, your dentist may recommend removing them.
Prior to tooth extraction, your dentist will perform a comprehensive examination which includes using digital X-rays and going over your dental and medical history. An X-ray allows the dentist to get an in-depth look at your teeth’s structure, position, and surrounding tissues.
The tooth is then numbed with an anesthetic to minimize any pain or discomfort during your procedure. Using a tool called an elevator, the dentist carefully loosens the tooth and removes it with another tool called a forceps. The area is then stitched up to allow for healing.
Be sure to follow your dentist’s instructions closely following your surgery. It’s normal to feel some discomfort for a few days. To help relieve discomfort, you can take an ibuprofen, such as Advil, a few times a day. Be sure to follow the proper dosage and never put the pill directly on the treated area.
Other tips include biting down on a cotton gauze pad throughout the day to minimize bleeding and applying an ice pack to the cheek area. Be sure to eat soft foods for the first few days and rinse your mouth with a salt water mixture to keep the area clean.
To learn more about tooth extractions, contact Carlton Dental, Emergency Dentist in St Catherines, today.