Tooth Extractions

Do You Need A Tooth Extraction?

Situations do arise where a tooth extraction is the only option. My Emergency Dentist believe it’s important that our patients are aware of all the details, and you can be assured that we’ll look after you as much as we can.

A Caring Approach

Procedures In Detail

Before an extraction, a patient will be in constant contact with their dentist to provide:

A Simple extraction

The most common form of tooth removal, the dentist will use a local anaesthetic and remove the tooth in one piece with the aid of forceps.

A Sectional extraction

Sectional procedures are conducted upon the molars – which have multiple roots. Your dentist will separate the roots and remove them individually then extract the tooth.

A Surgical extraction

Generally performed under a general anaesthetic, surgical extraction is the removal of ‘impacted’ teeth (teeth that are not visible). An experienced dentist will undertake this procedure as it is an advanced technique. An incision is made and gum and bone tissue removed, the tooth is loosened and extracted with forceps. An experienced dentist will undertake this in a quick and efficient manner. Bleeding will occur until a clot forms, and the site closed with dissolvable stitches.

Why You May Need An Extraction

There are some common issues that might make a tooth extraction necessary, and include the following.

Damage

Trauma or decay can damage a tooth beyond repair. In situations where alternative procedures are not an option, your dentist may advise that your tooth needs to be removed.

Crowding

Teeth are removed where overcrowding is present, and is usually required for orthodontic procedures. At other times the mouth may simply be too small, and room needs to made for teeth to sit correctly on the gum.

Infection

Dentists may choose to remove a decayed tooth if the deterioration has exposed the pulp of the tooth; bacteria that lives in the mouth may cause infection.

Good Preparation

Tooth extractions may be necessary in preparation for people receiving orthodontic work, radiation therapy and chemotherapy. Medication can have a negative effect upon immunity and make them vulnerable to infection.

Non-functioning teeth

A tooth can be detrimental to overall oral health simply because of its position, and may need to be extracted. This is a preventative measure that stops other problems arising in the future.

Erosion Cavity

When the wisdom tooth hits the neighbouring molar, it can cause infection.

Cysts

Cysts can destroy the bone and damage other teeth. Cyst formation is uncommon.

Crowding

Crowding occurs when the wisdom tooth pushes hard against other teeth causing crowding.

Infection

When an impacted wisdom tooth pushes through the gum, an infection can form around the top of the tooth.

Good Preparation

When Is An Extraction Appropriate?

We like to make sure that our patients are safe at all times, so in some instances we don’t recommend an extraction.

What Are The Risks?

There are some risks post-surgery and your dentist should be contacted if:

Other complications are more likely to stem from a poorly conducted surgery. These include:

After an extraction there will be a gap in a patient’s mouth and other teeth may shift along the gum. A dentist will advise whether an implant or dentures are necessary.

What About Afterwards?

Post care is very important for a good result and there is complete healing after a fortnight.

After surgery, patients should:

Take painkillers as prescribed to them by their dentist/surgeon.
Chew on gauze for 3-4 hours post-surgery. Ensure that this gauze is changed before it becomes saturated with blood.
Use an icepack to prevent swelling but only for 10 minutes at a time.
Take 1 day-off for rest and recovery and do not engage in any strenuous work for 2 full days.
After 24 hours, mix 1.5 tsps of salt with warm water and gently rinse.
While sleeping, prop head up with a pillow to reduce bleeding.
Only sleep flat on your back.
If there is jaw swelling, use a warm compress.
Complete any course of antibiotics prescribed.

The blood clot should remain in the wound to protect the jawbone and nerves which are exposed as a result of the surgery and not dislodge. An episode of dry socket can lead to vulnerable to illness and intense pain.

To avoid this:

What Are The Alternatives?

Your dentist should only recommend it to you if there is no other choice . Patients should consider alternatives if:

One possible alternative is root canal surgery, where the nerve and pulp is removed from a badly decayed or infected tooth. The inside of the tooth is cleansed and placed back into the mouth without the nerve inside, but remains in the mouth for alignment and aesthetic purposes. This surgery is a viable alternative where tooth removal is necessary due to decay.

FAQs for Tooth Removal Procedures

Will I be able to drive myself home from the procedure?

With a local anaesthetic, yes,- if a general anaesthetic is used, then no. Patients undergoing surgery involving sedation will require a carer to drive them home.

Is this procedure covered by Medicare?

Medicare does not cover dental examinations. Under some circumstances the Australian Government may provide financial assistance for example, children who are eligible for Child Dental Benefit Scheme or those who have been issued vouchers to undergo dental treatment.

How long will the swelling from the surgery last?

It varies. The worst of the swelling usually passes by the second day but it can continue for a week or so. Icepacks and warm compresses should be used to try and reduce swelling.

Should I use mouthwash to disinfect my mouth during the recovery process?

No. Gentle rinses with salted water are strongly advised. Mouthwashes should be avoided.

Can a child have a tooth extracted?

Yes. This procedure is generally safe for children. However, each person is different and the specifics of a child’s case should be discussed with a dentist prior to organising a procedure. It is important to note that removing a baby tooth may be unnecessary based on the fact that it will eventually fall out and be replaced by a permanent version.

How long will the anaesthetic last?

Generally, a few hours. As such, patients should be wary of accidently chewing on their tongue or cheek in the immediate aftermath of the surgery as they may not be able to feel this pain.

Will anything quicken the recovery process?

Rest is most ideal. However, a healthy diet and Vitamin C supplements can help significantly.

I have undergone surgery, returned home and am in significant amounts of pain – what should I do?

Contact your dentist. It is likely that you have dry socket. Stick to the painkillers your dentist has prescribed until he/she varies their advice.

Why Choose My Emergency Dentist?

When conducted properly tooth removals are simple and uncomplicated. Our highly-qualified team of dentists and assistants at My Emergency Dentist will make the process of tooth removal as simple as it can be while also providing you with constant support for the 2-week recovery period. Our Perth locations are open 6 days a week from 8am until 6pm. This means that we can conduct the procedure at a time and place that suits you and your schedule. Good dental care begins with a simple check-up and conversation with a dentist. Book an appointment via our website or ring us now!