Dealing with Oral Pain? You May Need a Tooth Extraction in Midwest City

A common goal of all dentists is to preserve each patient’s teeth. Thus, they will encourage such things as preventive care, early identification and treatment of conditions and the maintenance of healthy lifestyle practices. However, there are times when the only remedy for a situation is a tooth extraction in Midwest City. As you read on, learn when it’s necessary to take this route, and find out how the process works.

Situations That Warrant a Tooth Extraction

An extraction involves the removal of a tooth from its socket. There are several factors that can result in needing the procedure, such as a broken or decayed tooth that is beyond repair.

Here are some of the other situations that may require a tooth’s removal:

• To create the necessary space for orthodontic treatment
• When receiving powerful medications that cause rapid tooth decay
• To provide the necessary space to receive radiation treatment
• There is an impacted wisdom tooth (one trapped beneath another tooth or the gums)

How Does a Tooth Extraction Work?

Typically, the tooth extraction process is fairly simple. It starts with the dentist administering local anesthesia to the affected tooth and the surrounding area.

A Simple Extraction

If the tooth is exposed, it will be dislodged from the periodontal ligament and further loosened using a special tool called an elevator.

Removing an Impacted Tooth

For an impacted tooth, the dentist will make a small incision in the gums to gain access. After the tooth is removed, the socket will be stitched, and a gauze will be placed over the area to allow for proper healing.

Post-Procedure Care

Following the extraction, there are some important protocols to follow to ensure a successful outcome. Here are some of the instructions you can expect to receive from the dentist:

• Take ibuprofen for pain relief for up to three days after the procedure is completed.
• Avoid tobacco usage, as the toxins can cause the blood clot to fail, which could lead to a painful infection.
• Eat soft and cool foods like apple sauce or yogurt, and try to avoid chewing on the side of your mouth where the extraction occurred.
• While smoothies are also an excellent way to take in the vital nutrients your body needs, you should avoid using a straw, as it too could cause the blood clot to dislodge.

It’s no secret that having a tooth extraction is not a welcomed procedure, but if it has to be done, you want it to be successful. The guidelines provided here are geared toward that purpose.

If you have an impacted or severely decayed tooth, contact your dentist to schedule an appointment so you can be examined and have the tooth extracted. By not waiting to receive the care you need, you can recover faster and enjoy excellent oral health moving forward.

About the Author

Dr. Steven Kendrick earned his DDS degree from the Oklahoma University College of Dentistry. To further expand his knowledge, he went on to receive advanced postgraduate training from the Misch International Implant Institute. Dr. Kendrick uses his vast knowledge and years of experience to successfully extract teeth and restore oral health at Midwest Dental Center. He can be reached for more information through his website.