A severely decayed or badly damaged tooth can sometimes be repaired with restorative procedures. But in some cases the damage is too extensive and the tooth will need to be extracted.
How do you know if your tooth is damaged beyond repair? How bad does a tooth need to be before it's extracted? Here’s a general idea of when you can expect to need tooth extraction.
A Tooth May Be Saved If:
- It has a cavity. A tooth with a small cavity can easily be filled. Even a few cavities or a large cavity in a tooth can often be filled or restored with a crown.
- It has a small crack. A cracked tooth can be repaired as long as the crack is above the gumline.
- It is chipped. A chipped tooth can usually be restored using composite bonding or a crown.
- It is infected. An infected tooth can often be saved with a root canal.
A Tooth May Need To Be Extracted If:
- It is cracked below the gums. If the crack begins or extends under the gumline it will not be repairable in most cases and will need to be extracted.
- There is extensive damage. If there is too much damage to a tooth, either from decay or fracture, it may need to be extracted.
The Extraction Procedure
The procedure for tooth extraction is very simple. Local anesthesia is applied to numb the nerves in the tooth and gum tissue surrounding it. The tooth is gently loosened from the socket and removed. A few sutures may be used to close the gum tissue over the socket. These will dissolve in a few days as the tissue heals.
Replacing the Tooth
It is usually in the best interest of your oral health to replace an extracted tooth with a prosthetic. Options for tooth replacement include:
- Dental bridge. A dental bridge can replace one or two teeth in a row using crowns that fit over the teeth on each side of the gap. Artificial teeth are suspended between the crowns to replace the missing teeth.
- Dental implant. A dental implant is an artificial tooth and root system that is surgically placed in the jaw. It replaces the natural root of the tooth as well as the tooth itself.
- Dentures. When some or all of the teeth need to be extracted, partial and full dentures can replace them.
- Implant supported prosthetics. When multiple teeth are extracted and need to be replaced, implant supported bridges and dentures can provide larger restorations that are supported by dental implants placed in the jaw.
Schedule an Evaluation Today
If you have a tooth that you think may need to be extracted, schedule an evaluation with Hamden Dental Arts today. We can assess the condition of the tooth and provide restorative treatment if possible, or extraction and replacement if necessary.
Call 203-248-7400 or contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tooth Extraction
How long does a tooth extraction take?
The procedure for extracting a single tooth can usually be done under an hour and closer to 30 minutes. If multiple teeth need to be extracted at the same time, the procedure could take a few hours.
How long is the recovery period after tooth extraction?
You can expect to be almost fully recovered from tooth extraction in about a week. You may experience some discomfort for the first few days following the procedure, but over the counter pain medication is typically sufficient.
A tooth extraction is the process of removing a tooth from the mouth. A tooth may need to be extracted due to severe decay or damage that cannot be repaired. When a tooth can’t be saved, extraction is the best option for your oral health.
Sometimes teeth need to be extracted for other reasons. Teeth that are crowded or impacted (stuck under the gums) may need to be removed to prevent damage to the jaw bone or other teeth.
If you have an upcoming tooth extraction procedure, you may have some questions. Can I drive after getting a tooth extraction? What type of anesthesia will I need? Learn the answers to these questions and more about tooth extraction.
The Tooth Extraction Process
The process for getting a tooth extraction is relatively simple:
- Anesthesia is administered.
- The tooth is gently loosened.
- The tooth is removed from the socket.
- The gum tissue may be sutured if needed.
- Pressure is applied until the bleeding has stopped.
What Types of Anesthesia Are Used for Tooth Extraction?
The type of anesthesia used for a tooth extraction depends on a variety of factors.
- Local anesthesia. Local anesthesia is applied directly to the area of the extraction. It temporarily numbs the nerves so that you won’t feel any pain during the procedure. Most basic tooth extractions can be done with just local anesthesia.
- IV conscious sedation. IV conscious sedation is a medication administered intravenously that allows you to be relaxed and mostly unaware of the procedure. You are technically conscious and responsive, but you most likely will not remember anything about the procedure afterwards. IV conscious sedation may be used for more complex extractions, such as impacted wisdom teeth.
Planning For Your Tooth Extraction Appointment
The type of anesthesia you will have will determine whether or not you can drive after your appointment. If you have local anesthesia, your mouth will be numb but you are still fully conscious and capable of driving yourself home.
If you have IV conscious sedation you will need to have someone drive you to and home from your appointment. IV conscious sedation can leave you feeling sleepy or groggy and it would not be safe for you to drive. Plan to rest at home for the remainder of the day after any procedure that requires IV sedation.
Who Performs Tooth Extractions?
Simple tooth extractions can be performed by a general dentist. Some dentists also perform more complex tooth extractions, such as wisdom teeth. Other dentists may refer you to an oral surgeon for an extraction if the tooth is impacted or if there are circumstances that require a greater level of expertise. Oral surgeons specialize in tooth extractions and other types of oral surgeries that are more invasive in nature.
Why Choose Hamden Dental Arts for Tooth Extraction?
Hamden Dental Arts provides tooth extractions for patients of all ages from children to adults. After a brief evaluation, we can determine the best course of treatment for an at-risk tooth. In some cases a tooth may be saved, and in other cases it will need to be extracted. Together we can discuss anesthesia options to make the experience as comfortable as possible for you. We also provide tooth replacement options to restore natural function and appearance.
To learn more, call 203-248-7400 or contact us today to schedule an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tooth Extraction
How long does a tooth extraction take?
The length of the procedure depends on a variety of factors, such as the number of teeth being extracted, the size of the tooth, and whether or not it is impacted or has erupted. A larger or impacted tooth will take longer to extract, possibly an hour or more. A simple extraction can be done in 30 minutes or less.
How long is the recovery after a tooth extraction?
In most cases the extraction site is comfortably healed about 2 weeks after a tooth extraction. If you are still experiencing pain, swelling, or bleeding after 2 weeks, please contact us.
Tooth extractions are sometimes necessary for dental health purposes. If a tooth is too severely decayed or damaged to be saved, it may need to be extracted. Teeth are sometimes extracted for orthodontic purposes, to alleviate crowding or to allow a permanent tooth to come in.
Whatever the reason, a tooth extraction is a relatively simple process. But it does often result in some minor bleeding. Here’s how bleeding is controlled after a tooth extraction.
What is the Process for Tooth Extraction?
A typical tooth extraction can be done with local anesthesia to numb the area. Once the anesthesia has had time to take effect and the patient is not able to feel anything in that part of their mouth, the tooth will be loosened from the socket and carefully removed. Steps are then taken to stop bleeding. Once the bleeding is under control and you are feeling well enough, you can go home.
Steps Your Dentist Takes to Stop Bleeding
After extracting a tooth, your dentist may take the following steps to control bleeding:
- Gauze pads. Gauze pads will be applied to the area to absorb blood and prevent it from being swallowed. The gauze pads will be replaced until the bleeding is under control.
- Pressure. Pressure is applied to the area to stop the bleeding. Consistent pressure can help keep bleeding under control.
- Sutures. A few sutures (stitches) may be used to close up the socket and stop bleeding. These sutures will usually dissolve over time, but may need to be removed if not.
Steps You Can Take to Stop Bleeding
If you are still experiencing some bleeding after you leave the dentist’s office, the following steps are recommended:
- Continued pressure. Bite down on the gauze pads and keep them in place for constant pressure to the socket. Keep constant pressure for 45 minutes to an hour.
- Additional gauze pads. Add additional gauze pads and replace saturated gauze pads with new clean gauze until it comes out clean.
- Elevate your head. It is best to prop your head up somewhat if you are lying down after a tooth extraction. Or if you feel up to it, stay in a seated position.
- Bite on a tea bag. Black tea contains natural coagulants (blood clotting properties). Bite down on a wet black tea bag to stop bleeding.
When to Call Your Dentist
If bleeding is not under control within a few hours of arriving home or if bleeding continues to worsen, contact your dentist. It may be necessary to go back to the office for additional treatment. If the patient becomes lightheaded or loses consciousness, call 911 or seek emergency medical assistance.
How to Keep Bleeding From Resuming
Once the bleeding has stopped, there are things you can do to keep it from starting again:
- Avoid drinking from a straw. It is important not to use a straw after a tooth extraction. It can dislodge the blood clot in the socket and cause bleeding to resume.
- Eat soft foods. Eat only soft foods that won’t reopen the wound where your tooth was extracted.
- Drink cold beverages. Cold beverages can help control bleeding as they restrict the blood vessels.
- Allow food to cool. Don’t drink or eat anything hot. Allow all food and beverages to cool to lukewarm or room temperature before consuming.
- Keep your head elevated. Don’t lay down completely flat to sleep. Keep your head elevated with pillows for the first 24 hours.
Hamden Dental Arts Provides Tooth Extraction Services
If you need to have one or more teeth extracted, Hamden Dental Arts provides extraction services. Using gentle, minimally invasive techniques, we minimize bleeding and discomfort.
Call 203-248-7400 or contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.
Tooth extraction is a common dental procedure. A tooth may need to be extracted if it is damaged beyond repair, such as a severely decayed or broken tooth. While tooth extraction is a minimally invasive procedure, there still may be some inflammation and discomfort in the area after the tooth is removed.
If you’ve recently had a tooth extracted, you may be wondering when you can drink hot liquids again. When you’re used to having a cup of coffee or tea every day, it can be difficult to go without it. Here’s an idea of how long you should wait after a tooth extraction before drinking hot beverages.
How Long To Avoid Hot Beverages
It would be in your best interest to wait at least 24-48 hours after your tooth extraction procedure before drinking anything hot. This also applies to hot food. Whatever you eat after your procedure should be allowed to cool almost to room temperature before eating.
Why Should I Avoid Hot Food and Drinks
The reason for avoiding heat is that the gum tissue is likely inflamed and possibly a bit sore after being forcibly disconnected from the tooth. You may even have a stitch or two holding the gum tissue closed to prevent bleeding. Eating or drinking anything hot could irritate the already inflamed tissue and slow down the healing process.
Many soothing drinks and comfort foods are served hot, which is why this warning is necessary. Tea, soup, warmed milk, and other common foods eaten during recovery should all be avoided for the first few days.
What Should I Eat and Drink After Tooth Extraction?
There are many ways to have your favorite foods and beverages cold. Iced coffee and tea instead of hot may be a workable solution. Just be sure to avoid drinking from a straw for at least a week following tooth extraction, as the sucking motion can cause a condition called dry socket. Cold soup such as gazpacho is an alternative to hot soup.
Cold, soft foods such as yogurt, smoothies, pudding, jello, cottage cheese, and other similar items work well to reduce swelling and inflammation. Once you’ve had more time to heal, you can try more solid foods that are still on the softer side, such as pasta, eggs, cheese, cooked vegetables, and soft fruits.
When Can I Eat and Drink Normally Again?
Most people experience adequate tissue healing in about two weeks. By this time you should be able to eat and drink as you did before your procedure for the most part. You may still need to avoid particularly hard or crunchy foods in the area where your tooth was extracted.
What Should I Do if I Still Have Discomfort After Two Weeks?
If you’re still feeling discomfort in the area of the extraction after two weeks, contact your dentist. This may be a sign of postoperative infection. If you develop a fever at any point following your extraction, contact your dentist as fever is a telltale sign of infection.
Why Choose Hamden Dental Arts For Your Tooth Extraction?
Tooth extraction is a relatively simple procedure in most cases. Hamden Dental Arts uses advanced technology to make tooth extraction quick and comfortable. We use a minimally invasive approach to accelerate your recovery so that you can eat and drink normally again as soon as possible.
Call 203-248-7400 or contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.
Tooth extraction is sometimes a necessary dental procedure. A tooth may need to be extracted due to severe decay or damage. Teeth are sometimes extracted for orthodontic purposes to make more room in the mouth for the teeth to fit in better alignment. Most people will get their wisdom teeth extracted in their late teens or early twenties.
Whatever the reason for tooth extraction, if you have an upcoming appointment, you may have some questions about follow-up care, such as how long to use gauze and when it's safe to eat and drink. Learn the answer to these questions and more.
What Does an Extraction Entail?
Depending on the situation, a tooth may be extracted using local anesthetic to numb the area. Once the anesthesia is applied and has had time to take effect, the tooth is gently loosened using special dental tools and then removed. A few sutures may be used to close the gum tissue to reduce bleeding.
In the case of a more invasive extraction, such as wisdom teeth that are impacted, other forms of anesthesia may be used that provide a deeper level of sedation. IV sedation is a common form of anesthesia used during wisdom tooth extractions.
How to Use Gauze
The first thing you will be asked to do following your tooth extraction is to bite down on gauze pads to help stop the bleeding. Your dentist will provide you with plenty of gauze to take home with you so that you can continue to use it until the bleeding stops completely. There is not a definite period of time that you will need gauze, as people have different rates of blood clotting. But you should discard the gauze and replace it with new gauze every so often until the gauze comes out clean.
When is it Safe To Eat and Drink?
Once the gauze comes out clean it is safe to try drinking something. Start with water and rinse your mouth out first before swallowing. Then take small sips of water until you see how you feel. When you are ready, it is ok to drink other beverages as long as they are not hot. Also, it is very important that you avoid drinking from a straw. The sucking motion required for straw use can dislodge the blood clot in the socket where your tooth was extracted, resulting in a condition called dry socket. Dry socket can be painful and inhibit healing.
You can eat soft foods when you feel ready. Avoid chewing in the area where your tooth was extracted to prevent damage or irritation to the healing tissues. Things like yogurt, pudding, jello, mashed potatoes, cottage cheese, and other soft foods are best for the first 24-48 hours. Then you can gradually start eating more solid foods as you feel ready.
When to Call Your Dentist
If you experience any of the following problems after your tooth extraction, contact your dentist:
- Uncontrolled bleeding. If you are unable to get your bleeding to stop after extraction, call your dentist for further instructions.
- Resumed bleeding. If your bleeding has stopped for a period of time and then begins again, call your dentist.
- Severe pain. Pain following a tooth extraction should be manageable with over the counter pain medication in most cases. Your dentist may prescribe a stronger pain reliever if necessary. If you still experience extreme pain after taking prescription pain medication or if the pain doesn’t subside in a few days, call your dentist.
- Fever. If you develop a fever after tooth extraction, call your dentist right away. Fever is a sign of possible infection.
Hamden Dental ArtsProvides Tooth Extractions
If you need to have a tooth removed, Hamden Dental Arts provides safe and gentle tooth extractions. We make the tooth extraction process as comfortable as possible and provide the necessary follow-up care you may need after the procedure. Feel free to contact us with any questions or concerns.
Call 203-248-7400 or contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.
Tooth extraction is sometimes a necessity to improve dental health. Extractions may be recommended for a variety of reasons from severe decay to orthodontic benefits. When a tooth can’t be saved with restorative procedures, it will need to be extracted and replaced with a dental prosthetic of some kind. When teeth are extremely crowded in the mouth, extracting one or more teeth can make more room for the existing teeth to straighten out and come in properly.
If you’re in need of tooth extraction, you may be wondering how long the procedure takes. Learn how long you can expect to be in the dental chair and other information about the extraction process.
Average Length of a Tooth Extraction Procedure
The procedure for extracting a tooth is relatively short. On average, the entire procedure from start (administering anesthesia) to finish (placing sutures) in the dental chair is between 20 and 40 minutes. This is based on extraction of a single tooth that is visible above the gum line. There are other factors that may lead to a longer extraction procedure.
What Factors Can Contribute to a Longer Procedure?
The length of a tooth extraction procedure may be affected by the following:
- Number of teeth to be extracted. Each additional tooth that is being extracted will extend the length of the procedure. Additional anesthesia will need to be applied for each additional tooth as well, which increases the total time in the dental chair.
- Location of the tooth. Teeth in the back of the mouth are more difficult to access, which could mean that the procedure will take longer than it would for a tooth near the front.
- Size of the tooth. Size also impacts the procedure length. The larger the tooth is, the more difficult it may be to remove. Sometimes larger teeth need to be taken out in parts.
- Impacted teeth. Teeth that are still under the gums or trapped beneath other teeth are more difficult to remove, which can make the procedure take significantly longer.
- Use of sedation. Most tooth extractions can be performed with local anesthesia, but in some cases sedation may be used, either for more invasive extractions or to ease anxiety. The use of oral or IV sedation can extend the length of the procedure due to necessary recovery time. But in other ways it can speed up the process as the dentist can work more quickly if the patient is sedated. Overall you can expect the procedure to take 1-2 hours if sedation is used.
- Tooth replacement plans. In most cases you will need time to heal after an extraction before the tooth is replaced, if that is the plan. Ridge preservation may be included in your extraction, which means that a bone graft may be placed in the socket after your tooth is extracted to preserve the bone tissue for a dental implant to be placed later. You may also have a dental implant placed right after your tooth is extracted in the same appointment. These added steps will increase the length of your extraction procedure.
Follow-up Care After Tooth Extraction
Your instructions for follow-up care may vary depending on your individual situation. One important tip that applies to all extractions is to avoid drinking from a straw, as this can dislodge the blood clot and lead to a condition called dry socket.
You may need to bite down on clean gauze after your extraction to minimize bleeding. A few stitches may be used to close up the gum tissue and reduce bleeding. These stitches will typically dissolve on their own as the tissue heals. Depending on how you feel and what type of anesthesia was used, you may need to rest for the remainder of the day after your extraction.
Golia Dental Provides Tooth Extraction
If we recommend a tooth extraction, we can provide you with an estimate for how long the procedure will take so that you know what to expect ahead of time. Most dental extractions are routine procedures that take very little time. We provide sedation options if you need it to help you feel more relaxed and comfortable during your extraction.
To learn more, call 203-248-7400 or contact us today to schedule an appointment.