When a tooth has become so extensively decayed or damaged, our dentists at Beulah Family Dentistry may recommend extraction of the tooth to make way for a replacement restoration. This procedure utilizes special instruments to gently ease the tooth from the socket. We will not perform extraction of a tooth without going over options to save the tooth or to restore the space once the tooth is missing.
Extractions can be classified as simple or surgical. A simple extraction involves a tooth that is visible above the gums and can usually be removed in one piece. A surgical extraction is more complicated and involves the removal of gum tissue, bone, or both. This may require that the tooth be removed in pieces.
To ensure proper healing of the extraction site, patients should avoid:
- sucking on the extraction site
- touching it with their tongue
- using a straw
- spitting
- eating solid — especially crunchy — foods
- rinsing the mouth vigorously
- drinking alcoholic beverages or using mouthwash that contains alcohol
- smoking