Extractions

Tooth extraction involves having one or more teeth completely removed from your mouth by your dentist. This can be done at one appointment or over a few sessions (if more than one tooth needs to be taken out). You may or may not want, or need to have the teeth replaced. Your dentist will explain all the options available to you. There are a number of reasons why your teeth may need to be extracted. Some of the most common reasons include:

• Severe gum disease (periodontal disease) - when bacteria build up on your teeth and damage the bone that holds them in place, the teeth may become loose
• Tooth decay - if a tooth is very rotten, its nerves and blood vessels can die, leading to a painful abscess
• A broken tooth that can't be repaired
• Crowded teeth - if you have a small jaw or lost your milk (baby) teeth early, your teeth may be crooked and you may need to have one or more removed so that the rest can be straightened
• Wisdom tooth problems - if there isn't enough space in your mouth for your wisdom teeth they may become impacted (stuck behind the tooth in front) and need to be removed

If you're particularly anxious about having treatment, your dentist may offer you Sedation - this relieves anxiety and causes temporary relaxation without putting you to sleep

Side effects

You may have some discomfort and swelling for a few days afterwards, and your jaw may feel a little stiff. If you need pain relief, you can take over the counter painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen. It is normal to notice slight bleeding for the first couple of days after a tooth is removed. Rinse the excess out of your mouth and then bite down on a clean pad of material such as a handkerchief. If the bleeding doesn't stop within 15 to 30 minutes, contact your dentist for advice..

If you have any query about the above procedure please contact us at the Mullane Dental Clinic, Newcastle West, Co. Limerick.

Complications

This is when problems occur during or after the procedure. Most people aren't affected.

Contact your dentist immediately if you experience:

• Prolonged bleeding
• Swelling
• Severe pain
• High temperature (fever)

These may be the sign of an infection or other complications.

One of the most common problems that can occur after tooth extraction is called a dry socket. This is when there is no blood clot so the tooth socket doesn't heal as quickly as expected. This usually happens within two to four days after the extraction and is extremely painful. Go back to your dentist who will rinse the area, put a dressing on it and may give you antibiotics if necessary. Dry socket is more common after extraction of lower molars, if you smoke or are taking the contraceptive pill.