Tooth Extraction

Calgary Tooth Extractions

A tooth extraction is the removal of teeth from the socket of the jawbone. Dentists may perform tooth extractions for a variety of reasons including for cosmetic dentistry procedures such as Invisalign or when wisdom teeth are impacted and removal is necessary.

A dentist may recommend a tooth extraction if:

• Your tooth is too damaged by a fracture or deep cavity to repair
• You have a sizable tooth infection that cannot be solved by a root canal alone
• You have teeth (extra or baby) preventing other teeth from coming in
• You have opted for a cosmetic dentistry procedure such as Invisalign and you need to get rid of a tooth that is crowding others.

At Dr. Korol Dental, our dentists provide comprehensive and pain free tooth extraction services, including wisdom tooth removal, to help you maintain a healthy and beautiful smile.

What is the Tooth Extraction Process?

The tooth extraction process, when performed by a qualified dentist, is a simple and quick procedure. It includes the following steps:

1. Your dentist will inject a local anesthetic into the area around the tooth/teeth that are being extracted.
2. Once the anesthetic has taken effect, your dentist will widen your tooth socket and gently rock your tooth from side to side until it is loose enough to pull out.
3. You may feel some pressure in your mouth but your dentist will help relieve any discomfort.

REMEMBER: if you do feel any pain, it is important to tell your dentist straight away.

Tooth Extraction Aftercare

When you have had a tooth extraction or a wisdom tooth removal procedure, it is very important to follow the aftercare instructions provided by your dentist to promote healing and prevent any infection.

The following steps may help speed up your recovery after a tooth extraction:

• Don’t rinse your mouth for at least 24 hours. This is because it could disturb the blood clot that may have formed, causing you to start bleeding again.
• After 24 hours, start rinsing gently with a salt water mouthwash. This will keep the treated area clean and prevent infection.
• When you feel ready to eat, start with sips of warm soft/pureed food that you don’t need to chew. DO NOT eat on the side where you had the tooth extraction.
• If your gums bleed, bite down on a sterile pad of material such as cotton pad for at least 15 minutes.
• Don’t drink alcohol for at least 24 hours after your extraction and don’t smoke for as long as possible (at least 24 hours.)

What are the Alternatives to Tooth Extraction?

If you don’t want to have your tooth extracted, your dentist may be able to suggest alternative treatments (such as a root canal treatment.) They may also explain how not removing your tooth could affect your oral health.

While you can take painkillers to ease any discomfort, pain or swelling, this will only relieve your symptoms temporarily. Your dentist will be able to discuss all of your options with you during a consultation.

BOOK A CONSULTATION WITH OUR CALGARY DENTIST

Learn More

To learn more about our tooth extraction services including wisdom teeth removal, contact our Calgary dentist at 403-245-9099.