Tooth Extractionsin New Berlin and Waukesha, WI
Tooth extractions are a common dental procedure performed to address various oral health issues. At Ross Dental, serving the New Berlin and Waukesha communities, we provide expert care and sedation options to ensure a comfortable experience. Whether due to severe decay, impacted wisdom teeth or preparation for orthodontic treatment, our skilled team is dedicated to making the extraction process as smooth as possible.
What is a Tooth Extraction?
A tooth extraction is a dental procedure that involves the removal of a tooth from its socket in the bone. This procedure is typically performed by a dentist or oral surgeon when a tooth is severely decayed, damaged, or poses a risk to surrounding teeth and overall oral health.
During the extraction, the area around the tooth is numbed with local anesthesia to ensure the patient’s comfort. Depending on the situation, the dentist may use specialized tools to loosen the tooth before carefully removing it. After the extraction, proper aftercare is essential to promote healing and prevent complications.
When Is a Tooth Extraction Necessary?
Tooth extractions may be recommended in various situations.
- Severe decay: When a tooth is too damaged by decay to be repaired with a filling or crown.
- Advanced gum disease: If periodontal disease has caused significant bone loss around a tooth.
- Impacted wisdom teeth: When wisdom teeth are unable to emerge properly or cause pain and infection.
- Overcrowding: To create space for orthodontic treatment or to improve bite alignment.
- Fractured teeth: When a tooth is broken beyond repair due to trauma or injury.
- Infection risk: For patients undergoing chemotherapy or organ transplants, to remove potential sources of infection.
- Baby teeth not falling out: If a child's baby tooth is preventing the eruption of a permanent tooth.
- Preparation for dentures: Sometimes teeth need to be removed to prepare for full or partial dentures.
At Ross Dental, we always explore all options before recommending an extraction. Our experienced team ensures your comfort throughout the procedure if an extraction is necessary.
Essential Aftercare Tips for Tooth Extraction Recovery
Taking care of the affected area after a tooth extraction is crucial for a smooth recovery. At Ross Dental’s New Berlin and Waukesha locations, our dentists ensure our preventative dentistry procedures are as seamless as possible. Like any medical procedure, following proper aftercare steps can help prevent further injury or infection.
7 Essential Aftercare Tips for a Tooth Extraction
- Apply Gauze: To stop the bleeding and promote the formation of a clot, gently bite down on a gauze pad covering the extraction site.
- Rest: Avoid strenuous activity for no less than 24 hours to let your body recover.
- Ice Pack: To minimize swelling, place an ice pack on your cheek for ten to twenty minutes at a time.
- Avoid Disturbing the Site: Avoid smoking, sucking on straws and thorough rinsing, as these activities may cause the clot to come loose.
- Soft Foods: For the first few days, limit your diet to soft foods like mashed potatoes, applesauce, and yogurt.
- Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids, but avoid hot beverages and alcohol.
- Oral Hygiene: After 24 hours, carefully rinse your teeth with a saltwater solution while continuing to brush and floss without hitting the extraction site.
Following these aftercare recommendations will support your healing process and help you return to your normal routine quickly after a tooth extraction.
Proper Dental Cleaning is the First Line of Defense
Not all tooth extractions result from neglect, but when they do, it's essential to remember the key to maintaining excellent dental health: consistent at-home care and preventative dentistry. When performed correctly, your daily oral hygiene routine takes only 10 to 15 minutes. This small investment of time is all it takes to prevent infections, diseases and the need for additional dental work.
By prioritizing your dental care, you can maintain a healthy smile and avoid more extensive procedures in the future.