Tooth Removal or Extraction
Tooth extraction is a common procedure among teens and adults when their wisdom tooth starts showing. However, this procedure can also be the last option to save neighboring teeth from tooth infection and tooth decay. When tooth decay reaches its final stage, the abscess stage, the dentist may decide to pull the tooth out entirely. This decision is best to prevent bacterial infection from spreading to the neighboring teeth, jack, neck, and other head areas. Moreover, patients may also suffer from high fevers, inflammation of the gums, and swollen lymph nodes.
Tooth extraction is a quick procedure, and patients are given local or general anesthesia to make the pain tolerable. Some tooth extraction procedures are simple, especially for visible teeth. However, more complicated tooth extraction is needed for impacted and broken teeth.
Patients should schedule an X-ray to have a clearer view of the problem. Patients must also disclose their medical records, medications, vitamins, and existing medical conditions, so the dentists can make informed decisions on what treatment will work best for them. Patients with diabetes, hypertension, heart defects, and other severe illnesses should have clearance from their doctors before the tooth extraction.
