Tooth extraction is not really something that you look forward to. You would rather have your tooth come off on its own instead of having it pulled out. Kids tend to look forward to the visit of the tooth fairy as opposed to the dentist. A wisdom tooth extraction is not really a happy picture to imagine.

A lot of patients are afraid of this procedure, especially first-timers. Understanding what to expect could help relieve some of the anxiety that you might be feeling.

It’s important to remember that these different dental procedures are in place to ensure your good dental health. They were not meant to cause you any harm or discomfort.

What to expect from a tooth extraction?

Dentists underwent special training to administer tooth extraction in London Ontario. Do not worry, you are in good and capable hands.

Here are steps of the tooth extraction procedure.

1. Your dentist will give you a local anesthesia to numb the tooth extraction site.
2. An impacted tooth means that your dentist will need to cut away some of the gum and bone tissues covering it.
   
   If you have an impacted tooth, it means that your tooth cannot break through the gums. A partially impacted tooth means that parts of it have been able to break through. Wisdom tooth extraction usually happens because the tooth is impacted.
3. After the gum and bone tissue removal, he will grasp the tooth with his dental tools to completely remove it. The dentist may need to remove the tooth in pieces in case of an irregular tooth root.

Reasons for a tooth extraction

The following are some of the different reasons why your dentist might recommend a tooth extraction.

• Your tooth might be suffering from severe decay.
  
• The tooth might be badly damaged from an injury like a blow to the face during sports activities.
  
• Crowded teeth are a problem. Sometimes your dentist will need to extract a tooth or two in preparation for orthodontic treatment.
  
  Orthodontics is the treatment of teeth irregularities. Examples of famous treatments under this area are traditional metal braces and Invisalign clear aligners. The goal of these treatments is to align your teeth into their correct position.
  
  Sometimes a wisdom tooth extraction happens because there is no room in the mouth for the tooth to erupt. The dentist will need to pull it out because it might cause discomfort.
• Mouth bacteria can enter into the teeth’s pulp, being the center of the tooth. It contains the nerves and vessels. If the tooth infection is too severe for a root canal treatment, then extraction would be the last option. This will prevent the spread of further infection.
• Gum disease infects the bones and tissues that support the tooth. When this happens, your tooth loosens and might need to be extracted.

Best tooth extraction aftercare tips

You need a few days to fully recover after a tooth extraction. Here are some tips to help you feel comfortable during this time.

• Apply an ice bag near the extraction site for about 10 minutes at a time to reduce swelling.
• Avoid smoking! This slows down the healing process.
• Eat soft foods like pudding, yogurt, and mashed potatoes. You can gradually return to your normal diet after a few days.
• It’s an imperative from your dentist to limit your physical activity after the first 24 hours. Use this time to relax and rest.
• Rinse your mouth with a solution of salt and warm water after 24 hours of the extraction.
• Take painkillers prescribed by your dentist.

Tooth extraction is sometimes a necessary procedure to protect your dental health. Talk to your dentist if you are having hesitations and feelings of anxiety. They will be happy to guide you throughout the whole extraction process.