When you are experiencing severe pain from a tooth and the pain only gets worse over time, your dentist may call for a tooth extraction. A tooth extraction removes the tooth from its place in the bone. In most cases, tooth extractions will remove teeth that are significantly damaged beyond repair. However, your dentist may also recommend that you have a tooth extraction if you are in need of removing your wisdom teeth or if they notice that your mouth needs more room for proper tooth alignment.
Overall, the most common reasons for tooth extraction include:
- Bone loss around the tooth
- Fracture of the tooth/tooth root
- Impacted wisdom tooth
- Irreparable tooth decay
The difference between a root canal and a tooth extraction
You may be wondering what the difference between a root canal and a tooth extraction is – and what’s ahead if you qualify for either procedure.
A root canal is a treatment that is designed to repair a badly damaged or infected tooth without removing it. During the procedure, your dentist will numb the area of the tooth, make an opening in the damaged tooth, and remove the disease or dead pulp. After the pulp has been removed, the pulp chambers will be cleaned to eradicate all bacteria left behind. Your dentist will then fill the area with “gutta-percha,” a dental material that replaces your damaged pulp. You’ll be informed whether or not you’ll need a crown placed on top of the tooth to restore its appearance and strength.
In severe cases, when a tooth is extremely impaired and there is no way of saving it, a tooth extraction will remove the tooth entirely.
Can my tooth be saved?
It is advised to speak with your dentist to see whether or not you are eligible for a root canal treatment. If a tooth extraction is highly recommended, then there will be no way to save that tooth. The good news is that removing severely infected teeth can prevent the disease from spreading, which would consequently affect more of your teeth.
Tooth extraction: during and after
In a tooth extraction procedure, your dentist will start off by numbing the infected area, then they will loosen the tooth with a lever-like appliance, and then use forceps to extract the tooth. During the procedure, you will feel pressure but you should not experience any pain.
Light bleeding is common to experience after tooth extraction and acute facial swelling. Overall, it should take two weeks for the extraction site to completely heal. It is suggested that you consult with your dentist immediately if you are experiencing significant bleeding or pain.
Don’t wait for the pain to get worse
It’s no surprise that many individuals wait to see a dentist, only until the problem becomes a severe issue. We encourage you to simply set up a consultation to discuss any discomfort you may be feeling, whether mild or severe. Our North Pointe Dentists have over 40+ years of experience in improving smiles and treating “worst-case-scenarios”. If you have been experiencing discomfort in your mouth, simply give us a call to set up a consultation! Click here to get in touch!
