Dental Extraction Risks -Be Aware

Extraction of teeth is a common dental procedure that involves the removal of a tooth or teeth from their sockets in the jawbone. Tooth extraction is often necessary when a tooth is decayed, damaged, or infected beyond repair. In this blog, we will discuss the types of tooth extractions, the problems that can arise from extraction, and the aftercare required for a successful recovery.

Types of Tooth Extraction

There are two types of tooth extraction procedures:

Simple Extraction – This type of extraction is performed on teeth that are visible in the mouth. The dentist will numb the area around the tooth with a local anesthetic, and then use an instrument called an elevator to loosen the tooth from the surrounding tissue. Finally, forceps are used to remove the tooth from its socket.

Surgical Extraction – This type of extraction is necessary when a tooth is not visible in the mouth. This can occur when the tooth has not erupted, or when it has broken off at the gumline. In this case, the dentist will make an incision in the gum to access the tooth, and may need to remove some of the surrounding bone to extract the tooth. This procedure is typically performed under local anaesthesia or conscious sedation.

What Problems That Can Arise From Extraction

While tooth extraction is a common and generally safe procedure, there are some potential complications that can arise. These include:

Pain and Swelling – It is normal to experience some pain and swelling in the first few days after extraction. This can be managed with pain medication and ice packs.

Dry Socket – This occurs when the blood clot that forms in the socket after extraction becomes dislodged or dissolves, leaving the bone and nerve exposed. This can be very painful and may require additional treatment.

Infection – Infection can occur at the extraction site if bacteria enter the wound. Signs of infection include fever, swelling, and discharge from the site.

Nerve Damage – In rare cases, the nerves that run through the jawbone can be damaged during extraction. This can cause numbness or tingling in the lips, tongue, or chin.