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Procedure for Tooth Extraction

Posted on 1/23/2023 by Dr. Christianne Lee

Teeth crowding, infection, or excessive decay can necessitate a tooth extraction procedure. An oral surgeon or dentist conducts the procedure in the outpatient setting. The expert may decide to use either general or local anesthesia. The following is the procedure for tooth extraction used by oral surgeons:

Anesthesia

The first step in tooth extraction is anesthesia. The dentist will inject a numbing compound into your gum and the surrounding tissues. The main aim is to numb the area and minimize pain intensity during the extraction process. General anesthesia is most recommended if you require the removal of several teeth, or some teeth fragments are dislodged in the gums. For the removal of one tooth, local anesthesia will work.

Extraction of your Tooth

The extraction process involves pulling the tooth from the jawbone. An extraction forceps is used to grasp and pull your teeth from the attached muscles and ligaments. The dentist uses the dental elevator, which resembles a screwdriver, and goes between your teeth and the surrounding bones. Using the elevator, separating your tooth from the ligament is possible.

Suturing the Extraction Site

After the removal of a tooth, the socket will remain open making it susceptible to infections. The dentist will start by eradicating any infected tissue on the socket and round off the sharp bone edges. A gauze is then placed on the extraction site to minimize bleeding. The last step is to stitch up the site.

After placing the sutures avoid picking or chewing food at the site. Interfering with the suture site will prolong the healing process.

Post-Extraction Care

When the extraction is finished, a dentist must advise on appropriate ways to increase the healing process and avoid any infections. Pain medications will also be issued to manage any mild pain. The dentist will recommend you avoid smoking or eating hard foods.

Dr. Christianne Lee

5394 Walnut Ave Suite E
Irvine, California 92604-2505

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