Dental Trends of the Future: Leaving the Past Behind

One of the reasons people go to a dentist is for a tooth extraction. A tooth extraction paves the way for the healthy growth of new teeth. This procedure is sometimes done to prevent infection, pain, and discomfort. Here are some common myths about tooth extractions.

Tooth Extraction Is for Wisdom Teeth Only

One common myth about tooth extraction is that it is for those with wisdom teeth. However, a dentist will extract your tooth for several other reasons.

First, if other procedures for saving your tooth don't work. For example, a dental filling helps repair decay and minor fractures in the teeth. However, your dentist will recommend a tooth extraction if a dental filling or other restorative treatments don't work. In this case, a tooth extraction will help stop the infection and pain.

The other reason your dentist may recommend a tooth extraction is if there is a risk your tooth will erupt. This happens when the tooth is impacted in the gum tissue resulting in severe pain and pressure. 

Additionally, extractions occur before orthodontic treatments. For example, if your teeth are crowded, they affect adjacent teeth and may result in an underbite, overbite, or crossbite. An extraction may be necessary before your orthodontist recommends a tooth implant.

Tooth Extractions Are Painful

Another misconception about tooth extraction is that it is painful. Modern extraction methods use minimally-invasive methods and anesthesia to ensure patients are comfortable through the treatment.

The anesthetic numbs the area around the affected tooth to allow the dentist to loosen the tooth and remove it in one motion. Furthermore, recovery time from a tooth extraction takes a short period.

Alcohol Helps Accelerate Healing from Tooth Extractions

Many people believe alcohol will speed up healing after tooth extraction. However, alcohol can adversely affect oral health after tooth extraction.

After tooth extraction, a blood clot forms in the treated area. Blood clots cover the nerves and keep bacteria from an infection in the surgery area. Alcohol can prevent blood clot formation. Therefore, it increases your risk of infection. Avoid alcohol for a few days. Also, avoid smoking, drinking from a straw, and brushing the extracted area.

All Tooth Extractions Are Similar

When you envision a tooth extraction, you probably think of a procedure where a dentist numbs your mouth and removes your teeth with forceps. However, some people require surgical extractions.

During this procedure, your dentist will make incisions in the gums or apply other measures to remove the tooth. Surgical tooth extractions are performed by an oral surgeon for hard-to-reach diseased teeth. 

For more information, contact a local dentist's office.