The main task of modern dentistry is to keep the patient's natural living teeth as long as possible. Even the removal of one tooth can have consequences: displacements and deformities, local atrophy of bone tissue, chewing problems. But sometimes tooth extraction becomes unavoidable.
Indications for tooth extraction
For the dentist, the absolute indication for removal is progressive purulent periodontitis, which could not be stopped with traditional treatment methods. In this case, there is a risk of developing abscesses, sinusitis, or acute osteomyelitis.
Besides that:
- significant destruction of the root or crown part, in which restoration is impossible
- root fracture
- tooth loosening
- misplacement (dystopian wisdom teeth)
- increased mobility
- pulpitis, periodontitis with complications
- granuloma or cyst formation on the root
Only the dentist makes the final decision on the need for tooth extraction.
Before tooth extraction:
It is important to eat a few hours before tooth extraction. This improves blood clotting and allows you to go without food for as long as necessary after surgery. Preparation for tooth extraction:
- examination and determination of the condition of the tooth
- x-ray to study the location and characteristics of the root
- mouth disinfection
- anesthesia.
During the consultation, the doctor selects the optimal anesthesia method, taking into account the patient's state of health.
After tooth extraction:
The main task of the patient is to ensure the fast healing of the tooth. To do this, follow the doctor's recommendations:
- after the bleeding stops (20-40 minutes), remove the gauze from the hole
- refrain from eating for 2-3 hours
- try not to disturb the hole where the clot is forming (including using a toothpick, hard brush)
- on the first day after tooth extraction, do not eat/drink very hard, hot or spicy foods/drinks
- do not drink alcohol or smoke
- follow oral hygiene carefully (you can brush your teeth after 12 hours at the earliest).
Adherence to the recommendations prevents negative consequences and ensures a quick recovery. In some cases, the dentist may prescribe pain relievers to relieve the pain.
Contraindications:
Tooth extraction is a complex procedure that is not recommended for patients in some cases. Contraindications are:
- acute inflammatory processes or infections
- blood clotting problems
- pregnancy.
In most cases, the contraindications are relative, tooth extraction can be performed after the patient's health has stabilized.