DENTAL EXTRACTION

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EXTRACTION (DECAY)

Extraction when a tooth is severely decayed, sometimes the best treatment is to remove the tooth. Although most decayed teeth can be treated successfully with a filling or crown, these treatments work only when there is enough tooth structure above the jawbone to support the restoration. However, some teeth are so severely decayed that there isn’t enough tooth structure left to hold a restoration, and they must be extracted. To determine if an extraction is right for your situation, we’ll do a thorough examination, which typically includes x-rays. If the tooth cannot be saved, it’s important to extract it as soon as possible to prevent infection in the tooth and jawbone. In many cases, we recommend replacing an extracted tooth to preserve the jawbone and stabilize your bite, so we’ll talk with you about your replacement options. Extracting a severely decayed tooth is sometimes the best choice for relieving pain and preventing the spread of infection.

Extraction Dry socket

Dry socket occurs after a tooth extraction when the blood clot that forms in the socket becomes dislodged or does not form properly. The clot is necessary to protect the socket, stop bleeding, promote the development of new jawbone and gum tissues, and prevent pain. However, when the clot is lost prematurely, the inflamed socket and underlying nerves and bone suddenly become exposed.

Extraction – Symptoms of dry socket:

Does not respond to pain medication
Starts 1 to 4 days after extraction
Radiates into ear
Foul odor or taste in mouth
Several things can cause the premature loss of a blood clot, particularly within the first 24 hours after an extraction

Causes of Clot Loss:

Smoking and tobacco use
Spitting
Sucking through a straw
Sneezing and coughing
Carbonated, hot, or alcoholic drinks
Rinsing mouth too soon
Touching clot with fingers or tongue

To determine if you have dry socket, we’ll talk with you about your symptoms and perform a thorough examination, which may include an x-ray of the extraction site. Treatment for dry socket often includes a gentle rinsing of the socket with a medicated solution. We may also pack the site with a gauze dressing that contains a soothing anesthetic. You’ll probably need to return to our office several times over the next week or two, so that we can change the dressing and monitor the effectiveness of your pain medications. Prompt diagnosis and treatment of dry socket will allow the blood clot to fill back in, and the area will begin to heal normally once again.