Standard Tooth Extractions
Tooth extractions are standard procedures dentists perform to remove a tooth that is decayed, infected, broken, impacted, or causing overcrowding.
Using local anesthesia, dentists loosen and remove the tooth, sometimes making an incision in the gum. After removal, a gauze pad is placed over the socket to control bleeding.
After your procedure, bite down on the gauze for a few hours. Follow the care instructions to help your healing and prevent infection. You may feel pain, swelling, and bleeding in the days after the procedure, but you can manage these with medication. Avoid hard foods, smoking, and vigorous exercise for a few days. If you experience dental issues, see a dentist to check if you need an extraction.
Wisdom Teeth Extractions
Wisdom tooth extraction is a standard procedure that involves removing one or more wisdom teeth, often due to impaction, pain, or infection.
Wisdom teeth usually emerge in late teenage years or early adulthood. During extraction, local anesthesia or sedation is used. The dentist makes an incision in the gum, removes any obstructing bone, and may divide the tooth for easier removal.
After extraction, the gum is stitched, and recovery may involve some swelling, pain, and bleeding, which can be managed with medication. Patients generally return to normal activities in a few days.
See a dentist or oral surgeon for consultation if you’re experiencing issues with your wisdom teeth.
Teeth extractions and what to expect at the dentist?
Dental Tooth Extraction Procedure
Tooth removal, or tooth extractions, is a standard dental procedure dentists perform to remove a damaged or decayed tooth.
Here are the general steps involved in a tooth extraction procedure:
Evaluation
Local Anesthesia
Extraction
Post-operative care
Follow-up
Following your dentist’s post-operative instructions carefully is important to ensure a smooth and successful recovery from teeth extractions.
Know more about Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the last to emerge, usually between 17 and 25. Since there’s often limited space in the mouth, these teeth can become impacted, meaning they can’t fully break through the gums. This can lead to pain, swelling, infections, and damage to nearby teeth. While some people may have no issues with their wisdom teeth, they are harder to clean and can increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
If your dentist finds that your wisdom teeth are problematic or likely to cause issues in the future, they may recommend removal.
Tooth extractions for teeth alignment
Teeth may need to be removed if there isn’t enough space in the mouth for proper alignment. Crowded or crooked teeth can lead to cleaning difficulties, increased risk of decay and gum disease, and bite alignment issues. By removing one or more teeth, there’s more room for the remaining teeth to shift into alignment.
Tooth extraction may improve the appearance and function of your teeth and lower the risk of oral health problems. Tooth removal is often part of a larger orthodontic treatment plan, such as braces. Your dentist will evaluate whether tooth removal is necessary and discuss the risks and benefits with you. If a tooth extraction is needed, your dental team will provide instructions for caring for the extraction site and managing discomfort or swelling.
Does private health insurance cover dental tooth extractions?
Private health insurance coverage for dental tooth extractions varies by policy. While many plans include dental coverage, the specifics can differ. Some may cover extractions, while others may have limitations or waiting periods. Specific plans might restrict coverage to simple extractions or require pre-authorisation for complex ones. Reviewing your policy to understand the covered procedures and any out-of-pocket costs is essential. Our dental team can assist you in understanding your insurance options and payment plans. Feel free to inquire for more information.
What are the risks of having a tooth removed by a dentist?
Tooth extraction is a standard and generally safe dental procedure, but it does carry some risks. These include:
- Pain and Swelling: Discomfort and swelling are typical post-extraction. Follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions to manage this.
- Infection: There’s a risk of infection at the extraction site. Your dentist may prescribe antibiotics and give wound care instructions to minimise this risk.
- Damage to Adjacent Teeth or Tissues: Rarely, nearby teeth or tissues may be harmed during the procedure.
- Nerve Damage: In rare cases, nerves near the extraction site can be affected, leading to numbness or tingling in the lips, tongue, or chin.
- Bleeding: Some bleeding is normal, but excessive bleeding can happen. Your dentist will guide you on how to manage it.
- Dry Socket: This painful condition may occur if the blood clot in the socket dislodges or dissolves prematurely.
Before the procedure, our dental team will review the risks and benefits with you and take measures to reduce complications. If you experience severe pain or excessive bleeding after the extraction, contact your dentist immediately.
Can I try to remove my own teeth at home?
No, it is not safe to remove your teeth at home. Tooth extraction should only be done by a trained dental professional, such as a dentist or oral surgeon. Trying to pull out your own teeth can result in serious complications, such as infections, damage to nearby teeth, and severe pain. It can also harm your jawbone and other mouth structures. If you’re in pain or discomfort, make an appointment with a dentist to find the cause and get proper treatment.
What do I do if my gums still bleed after having a tooth removed?
It’s normal to have some bleeding after a tooth extraction. If your gums continue to bleed for several hours or days, try these steps:
- Bite on a gauze pad: Use a clean gauze pad provided by your dentist. If bleeding persists, replace it and bite down firmly for 20-30 minutes.
- Apply a cold compress: Place a cold compress on your cheek near the extraction site for 10-15 minutes to reduce swelling and help stop the bleeding.
- Avoid vigorous activity: Avoid exercise or heavy lifting for at least 24 hours.
- Don’t smoke or use a straw: Both can dislodge the blood clot and hinder healing.
If the bleeding continues heavily or you experience severe pain, contact a dentist immediately for evaluation and treatment.
What are the risks if I leave my wisdom teeth in?
If your wisdom teeth aren’t causing problems, your dentist may suggest leaving them alone. However, there are some risks to consider:
- Crowding: Wisdom teeth can push against other teeth, affecting your bite and making cleaning difficult, which increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
- Impaction: Wisdom teeth can become impacted, meaning they can’t fully emerge. This can lead to pain, swelling, and infection, often requiring surgery.
- Gum Disease: Located at the back of the mouth, wisdom teeth can be hard to clean, increasing the risk of gum disease, which can result in bleeding and infection.
- Sinus Issues: The roots of upper wisdom teeth are close to the sinuses. Infections or improper extractions can lead to sinus pain and congestion.
If you’re experiencing pain or swelling related to your wisdom teeth, seeing your dentist is essential. They can evaluate your teeth and recommend the best treatment, whether monitoring, extraction, or other options.
Excluding wisdom teeth, what are the cons of getting a painful tooth removed and not replaced?
Removing a painful tooth without replacing it can lead to several problems:
- Chewing Difficulties: You may struggle to chew properly if the missing tooth is a molar or premolar. This can cause digestive issues or lead to nutritional problems.
- Shifting Teeth: Teeth will move toward gaps in your mouth. If you don’t replace the missing tooth, nearby teeth can shift, creating bite issues and requiring braces later.
- Jawbone Loss: Teeth help keep your jawbone healthy. Losing a tooth can cause the bone around it to weaken, leading to further tooth loss and may even change the shape of your face.
- Speech Issues: Depending on where the tooth is missing, it might be harder to say certain words clearly. This can cause speech problems and harm your self-confidence.
- Aesthetic Concerns: Missing teeth can affect your smile and appearance, making you feel self-conscious and lowering your confidence.
- Dental Emergencies: Gaps in teeth can make it harder to keep your mouth clean, increasing the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and other dental issues.
In summary, while removing a painful tooth may give you quick relief, not replacing it can harm your dental health and overall well-being. Talking to local dentists to find the best options for your situation is important. We accept all major health funds.
We accept all major health funds