About Tooth Extractions
Taking care of your teeth is important and beneficial to your health. But when unfortunate problems occur, tooth extractions may be the only alternative. A tooth extractions is a type of oral surgery that may or may not be extensive. It is only used when teeth are nonviable or dentures need to be placed. Dentists discuss why the tooth cannot be saved and why oral surgery is needed.
Types of Tooth Extractions
The types of extractions depend on how damaged or extensive the decay is.
- Simple extractions: These require local anesthesia and can be performed by a general dentist. Some dentists may use anti-anxiety medication for patients who are very nervous.
- Surgical extractions: This type requires the in-depth training of an oral surgeon. Surgical extractions are needed for wisdom teeth, impacted teeth or broken teeth. The surgeon has to cut through gum tissue to reach the tooth.
Types of Tools Used in Tooth Extractions
The tools used in the procedure also depend on whether or not the extraction is simple or surgical.
Simple extractions require:
- Extraction forceps - used to remove or pull out the tooth
- Periosteal elevator - is placed between the tooth and gum to loosen the tooth from the socket
Surgical extractions require:
- Extraction forceps
- Periosteal elevator
- Osteotome - is used to cut gum
- Periotome - is used to break the tooth into smaller parts before removing
Types of Anesthesia Used in Tooth Extractions
Some patients have very deep decay or impacted teeth. The type of anesthesia used depends entirely on the patient's condition.
- Nitrous oxide or commonly known as "laughing gas" is used to induce a relaxed state. It usually wears off right after being discontinued.
- Novacaine injections are used for non-surgical extractions. Patients are awake but will not feel any type of pain or discomfort.
- Oral pre-medication is more affective than nitrous oxide and usually takes up to an hour to take affect.
- I.V. sedation can put patients into a very relaxed frame of mind. They feel as though they are floating, loopy or very drowsy. Some patients can fall asleep; however, their vital signs are carefully monitored.