Things To Know About Tooth Extraction

Tooth extraction is a procedure performed in dentistry.

The extraction of your tooth involves removing it completely from its socket. It is sometimes referred to as "pulling" your tooth.

Tooth extraction is mostly a safe procedure, but like any other medical procedure, it does involve some risks. While the rate of complications with the procedure is slightly higher, it’s still considered a routine and common practice. 

It is important to be informed of the details and facts before having the treatment. By discussing your concerns with your dentists and following their instructions carefully, you can ensure your comfortable recovery.

When to get a Tooth Extracted

Teeth extraction is a surgical procedure performed to remove one or more teeth. There are various factors considered when deciding when to have a tooth extracted, including the severity of the dental condition and the patient's age, health, and overall dental needs. 

Even though permanent teeth are meant to last a lifetime, and healthcare providers prefer to save natural teeth if possible. When other restorative measures like dental fillings and crowns don't work, tooth extraction is recommended. 

If your tooth has been badly damaged beyond the point of repair, a visit to the Tooth extraction clinic or Emergency extraction clinic might be necessary.

A dentist may also recommend tooth extraction if you have:

• Severe tooth decay (cavities).


• A fractured tooth.


• An impacted tooth.


• Crowded teeth.


• Severe gum disease.


• Tooth luxation or other dental injuries.

Signs you need to visit a Dentist

Dentists or oral surgeons perform tooth extractions.

General dentists perform most extractions, but more complex cases are referred to oral surgeons or periodontists.

If you are facing dental pain, sensitivity, and toothache, it might be time to visit either a walk-in dental clinic or a dental emergency care clinic near you.

Your dentist can help determine the cause and design a personalized treatment plan.

Here are some signs that indicate it’s time to visit your dentist: 

1. You're experiencing problems with molars or back teeth. 


2. You have a history of dental problems. 


3. You feel like something is caught in your teeth or gums. 


4. Your jawbone feels heavy when you move it side-to-side or front-to-back.

What to Expect During a Tooth Extraction

Preparation for Tooth Extraction:

Your Dentist will perform an assessment of the affected tooth and surrounding gums before tooth extraction is recommended. Your Dentist will also take a dental X-ray to check the extent of the damage and bone levels.  

Although getting a tooth pulled out is usually a safe procedure, it can allow harmful bacteria into the bloodstream. There is also the risk that gum tissue will become infected. Before and after the extraction, antibiotics may be required if you have a condition that puts you at high risk of developing a severe infection.

Before getting your tooth pulled out, you must let your Dentist know your medical history, the supplements and medications you take, and if you have any medical conditions such as the following:

• Damaged or artificial heart valves


• Congenital heart defect


• Impaired immune system


• Liver disease (cirrhosis)


• Artificial joints, such as a hip replacement


• History of bacterial endocarditis

Once all information is given to the dentist, the treatment and sedation options will be discussed with you in detail.

Sedation Options

• Nitrous oxide: Nitrous oxide is an excellent option for people who need light sedation. Nitrous oxide patients can drive themselves to ad from their appointments.


• Oral conscious sedation: This sedation is given about an hour before your dental appointment by mouth, usually in pill form.

If you have any questions about your upcoming dental appointment, please do not hesitate to ask your Dentist.

Tooth Extraction Process: 

The basic tooth extraction process starts with Local anesthesia, which is used to numb the surrounding gum tissue of your affected tooth. The dentists gently loosen your tooth and lift it from the socket. The socket is cleaned and disinfected once the tooth is removed. The stitches may be placed to help promote healing.

After a Tooth Extraction

The tooth extraction recovery typically takes a few days. 

Follow the instructions given by your Dentist or Dental extraction center to minimize the discomfort and risk of infection and to have a speedy recovery. 

• Take prescribed painkillers.


• Avoid any straining activities and relax.


• Do not rinse or spit forcefully for 24 hours after the extraction.


• Do not use straws for 24 hours.


• Do not smoke, which can inhibit healing.


• Follow the prescribed diet with soft foods.


• Prop your head with pillows while lying down.


• Doing so will help prevent infection. Be sure to avoid the extraction site while brushing and flossing your teeth.

 Feeling slight discomfort, swelling and pain after your tooth is pulled is normal.

However, if you experience the following situations, you should contact your Dentist or dental emergency care clinic.

• Swelling, redness or excessive discharge from the affected area


• Signs of infection, including fever and chills


• Cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, or severe nausea or vomiting


• Nausea or vomiting

Advantages of Tooth Extraction 

Tooth extraction helps reduce harmful bacteria, reducing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

If left untreated, decayed or damaged teeth can wreak havoc on your smile, leading to many problems. If you have an affected tooth, it's the best way to maintain optimal oral health.

Tooth extraction can immediately ease dental pain, especially if your tooth is severely fractured or infected.

Risks Involved in Tooth Extraction

Tooth extraction carries little risk of complications that may occur after surgery. Possible risks include:

• A delay in healing and a prolonged time for healing. 


• Nerve injury


• The postoperative infection


• Dry gum socket


• Perforation of maxillary sinus

Why choose Didsbury Smiles Dental

If you are suffering from dental issues and are looking for a dentist in Didsbury, AB. Reach out to Didsbury Smiles Dental Office in Didsbury, AB. 

At Didsbury Smiles Dental, we provide the quality dental care. We make a special effort to make sure patients feel welcome and get the perfect dental care they need in Didsbury.

We are also winners of the “Best dentist in Mountainview County” several times. 

So you can rest assured that our treatments are the safest and most trustworthy.

We provide the best treatment possible and a better and healthier smile.