Reasons for Dental Extraction
Most people believe permanent teeth are supposed to serve them permanently.
Well, that’s not always true. Natural teeth can get seriously sick to the point that saving them is no longer possible.
According to the Brisbane Paediatric dentist, Tooth extraction is sometimes necessary to improve oral health or aesthetics.
Your dentist may decide to have one or multiple teeth extracted for the following reasons:
- Your tooth is damaged beyond repair, probably due to tooth decay or cavities.
- There is a risk of infection spreading in your mouth from a decayed tooth.
- Your tooth is badly fractured or broken and cannot be saved.
- Baby teeth that have not fallen out yet prevent your adult teeth from erupting.
- If you have severe gum disease, your dentist may pull your teeth to prevent the infection from affecting your jawbone.
- Your dentist may need to remove one or multiple teeth before orthodontic treatment.
- You have impacted wisdom teeth that are causing trouble for the neighbouring teeth. Impacted wisdom teeth may make oral care challenging because food debris can get stuck around them and cause decay or gum disease.
Overcrowding can also be one of the reasons why dentists may decide to perform tooth extraction surgery.
How to Prepare for a Tooth Extraction
Tooth Extraction Preparation
Some dental procedures, such as tooth extractions, may evoke uncomfortable feelings in some people. While tooth extraction is typically a safe and straightforward dental procedure, preparation can’t hurt.
Gaining enough information and getting prepared before tooth extractions can put your mind at ease and help you have a smooth procedure and a faster healing process.
Here are ways you can be prepared before having your tooth extracted:
Ask Questions
Do not shy away and express your concerns with your dentist before the procedure.
Asking questions before going through medical or dental procedures can clear away all the doubts and help you be more prepared for the procedure.
It is your mouth, and you have every right to know the steps involved in the tooth extraction procedure, the risks, and the type of anesthesia you are receiving.
Because extracting teeth is not usually preferable, you may need to know why you must have your tooth extracted rather than preserving it.
You can prepare a list of your questions or concerns that are occupying your mind and discuss them with your dentist.
Share your complete medical history with your dentist or oral surgeon.
Make sure you inform your dentist if you have allergies, recent surgery, and any medications you are currently using before tooth extractions.
Being aware of the patient’s medical history allows the dentist to make more informed decisions and can prevent complications during and after tooth removal.
Some people prefer to get a complete medical assessment done by a physician and let their dentist know if they have certain conditions requiring precautions before an extraction. Inform the dentist if you have diabetes, hypertension, or a weakened immune system.
Some health conditions make people more prone to infection, so the dentist needs to know if the patient has any of the following conditions before extracting their teeth.
- congenital heart defect
- history of bacterial endocarditis
- artificial joint replacements
- impaired immune system
- liver disease
- artificial or damaged heart valves
You need to let your dentist know what type of medicine or supplements you are taking so that they can reduce the risk of drug interactions.
Blood thinners may interfere with forming a blood clot at the extraction site and increase the risk of bleeding during tooth extraction. Your dentist may suggest you stop taking blood thinners if you are having your tooth pulled.
