Tooth extraction is the permanent tooth removal from its socket and is most prevalent in cavity cases. Imagine cavities in your teeth and the excruciating pain from it. In such cases, dentists pull out the teeth so that it does not spread to any other set of teeth. Here is everything you need to know about cavity tooth extraction.
Can Cavities Be Extracted?
When you visit your dentist, you learn about the current condition of your oral health. If you suffer from severe tooth decay and other dental health issues, your dentist might recommend a tooth extraction. Generally, a tooth extraction tends to refer to a definite dental procedure that involves the complete removal of a tooth from its socket. Sometimes, it so happens that dentists are forced to extract the tooth due to severe cavities to avoid further mishaps.
Is Cavity Tooth Extraction Painful?
There have been several mixed reviews regarding tooth extraction, whether painful or not. Even if you are getting a simple or a surgical extraction done, it begins with administering anesthetic for the tooth and gum. While some people find it very painful to get their teeth extracted, some tend to state that it is painless. This might be because of the anesthetic that is given to the patients. However, one might feel post-operative swelling, which heals in two weeks.
What Happens After Cavity Tooth Extraction?
Once your tooth is extracted, the socket is cleaned and further disinfected. In most cases, dentists often want to place a dental bone graft, which helps prevent bone loss. After completing the tooth extraction procedures, your dentist will put a piece of gauze on the extraction site. You need to close down your jaw and put steady pressure on it to stop the bleeding, which will help form blood clots. You might experience light bleeding for 24 hours and need to keep changing the gauze as per requirement.
How Long Does A Cavity Tooth Extraction Take To Heal?
Generally, a cavity tooth extraction site takes over 3-4 weeks to heal. Your oral surgeon or dentist will ask you to relax after completing the dental procedure. The first 24 hours are crucial for the bleeding in the extraction site needs to diminish. Sometimes it might also take a few months to heal. During a surgical extraction, a large part of tissue and bones are cut underneath the gum line, a beast of which the healing process takes time.
Cavity Tooth Extraction Aftercare Tips
- You need to keep the extraction site clean. For this, try to change the gauze every time you feel it is soaked with blood.
- The extraction site will likely have light to heavy bleeding in the first 24 hours. So you must ensure that the bleeding stops and blood clots form correctly.
- Rinse the area gently using an antimicrobial mouthwash at least thrice a day.
- Medications suggested by your dentist need to be followed. It will help you to ease the pain of the dental procedure and the swelling of the gums.
- Avoid any sport or strenuous activity which might affect the extraction site. Try not to put any pressure on the site, for it might start bleeding heavily.
The Final Verdict
Cavity tooth extraction is essential because it helps to prevent tooth decay and keep your teeth healthy. Cavity tooth extraction is typically done to remove a tooth severely damaged by decay. This procedure is also sometimes necessary to prepare the mouth for dental implants or to make room for orthodontic treatment. Don’t hesitate to visit your nearby dentist and get to know if you need to get your tooth pulled out because of cavities; after all, prevention is better than cure.
