Your dentist may try to save an infected or rotted tooth if at all possible, but sometimes pulling a tooth is the right choice. A simple tooth extraction can often be done by just pulling the tooth out. If the tooth is broken off near your gum and there is nothing for the dentist to grab onto, then dental surgery may be necessary. Here's a look at having dental surgery for a tooth extraction.
The Process Might Require Multiple Visits
During your first visit to the dentist, X-rays and a visual examination are done. This helps the dentist plan the right way to extract your tooth. You may need a second appointment to perform the procedure, especially if you are referred to a dental surgeon. You might need to take antibiotics during the period while you wait on your surgery depending on the nature of your dental problem and general health. You might even need a third visit to the dentist to check on your healing progress and to remove stitches. However, your dentist may use stitches that dissolve so they don't need to be removed later.
You May Be Sedated And Have Local Anesthesia
The dentist has to make an incision in your gum if your tooth is broken off. They may even need to break the tooth apart or remove part of your bone. You won't have discomfort during the procedure since you'll have a local or general anesthetic depending on the required procedure and your medical conditions. A local anesthetic numbs the area so you feel no pain, and since you'll be awake, the dentist may also provide sedation through an IV to keep you calm, especially if you have dental anxiety.
Recovery From This Dental Surgery Is Fairly Quick
You may be given prescription pain relievers to take, but recovery from a simple surgery may take several days. If the surgery involves your bone, recovery will probably take longer. However, your dentist should provide you with instructions on your diet and how to care for your gum so you don't dislodge the blood clot that helps your gum and tooth socket heal.
For instance, you may need to avoid drinking through a straw, eating soft foods, and swishing your mouth until your dentist says it's okay to do so. You might also need to sleep with your head elevated and avoid the extraction area when you clean your other teeth.
Your dentist might have you rinse your mouth with saltwater in the days following your surgery. You might need to limit strenuous activities too. Following your dentist's instructions for recovery helps avoid complications and reduces pain while helping you heal from the dental surgery as quickly as possible. For more information, contact a dental surgeon.
