Tooth Extractions/Wisdom Teeth
While we try our best to preserve patients's teeth, sometimes it is necessary to perform tooth extractions when a tooth is too severely decayed or when a wisdom tooth does not have enough space to develop correctly inside the mouth. Our patient's comfort is of a high priority to us while performing tooth extractions. To make the extraction as painless as possible, we numb the surrounding gums of the tooth with anesthesia.
Extractions are performed as a last resort by us. Typically extractions are recommended for patients that have severely decayed teeth, fractured teeth, gum disease that is affecting the teeth, or extra teeth than can properly fit within the mouth.
Extractions are also needed for wisdom teeth. Not all wisdom teeth need to be removed. In fact, most people are able to keep their wisdom teeth. Every once in awhile though, some wisdom teeth develop incorrectly, growing in sideways or only part way. Wisdom teeth that only develop part way are at risk for bacteria infections as the exposed gap leaves room for bacteria to enter the wisdom teeth. Another reason wisdom teeth may require extraction, is when the jaw does not have enough room to accommodate the new teeth. If there is not enough room for wisdom teeth to fit within the mouth, the wisdom teeth could misalign the rest of the patient's teeth. It is under these circumstances, that extractions are necessary.
What to expect post procedure?
Patients that undergo a tooth extraction should expect a small amount of bleeding to occur. This is normal. The open wound takes about one week to heal with the tooth tissue gradually filling in the socket over the next couple of months. It is required to avoid smoking, excessive mouth rinsing or drinking through a straw for the first 24 hours following the extraction to ensure proper healing. Patient should not brush teeth adjacent to the socket for first few days. Pain and swelling may also be experienced. For swelling and pain, patients should place ice bags or a cold cloth over swollen areas. Medication is also available to reduce the pain for our patients while they recover.
All Extractions are performed by Dr. Christian Rouleau, our staff oral surgeon.