Tooth Extraction

What is a tooth extraction?

Tooth extraction is a dental process that removes a tooth from its socket in the jawbone. Although we always aim to preserve your natural teeth, there are situations where an extraction is required to maintain or enhance your overall dental health. These situations may include severe decay, infection, or preparing for a prosthodontic device such as dentures or implants.

Why might I need a tooth extraction?

Extractions are typically considered when other treatment options might not be feasible or when the tooth is compromising the health of your mouth.

There are several situations where extractions become necessary:

• Preparing your mouth for complete or partial dentures by removing teeth that are not suitable for restoration or are poorly positioned.
• Addressing teeth that are severely damaged from trauma or decay to the point of being irreparable.
• Managing dental overcrowding to facilitate better alignment and functionality.
• Extracting teeth that are problematic or have failed, which could compromise the integrity of future dental prostheses.

How do you ensure a gentle tooth extraction?

Understanding the anxiety associated with tooth extractions, we utilise a gentle approach that begins with a detailed explanation of the procedure, addressing all your concerns and questions. The actual extraction process is performed under local anaesthesia to ensure you feel no pain.

Dr Mulaudzi uses precise techniques and modern tools to minimise tissue disruption and promote a swift recovery. We focus on making the experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible.

What are the benefits of tooth extractions in prosthodontic dentistry?

Tooth extractions can be crucial in preparing your mouth for a prosthodontic treatment plan that will restore functionality and aesthetics. Benefits include:

• Eliminating pain from severely decayed or damaged teeth.
• Preventing the spread of infection and dental disease.
• Making space for well-aligned and functional prosthetic placements.
• Improving oral health and preparing your mouth for future dental work enhances your smile and chewing ability.

What should I expect after an extraction?

After a tooth extraction, we provide comprehensive aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth and comfortable recovery. These guidelines typically include advice on managing discomfort, preventing infection, and encouraging healing.

Patients are recommended to eat soft foods, avoid strenuous activity for a short period, and follow specific oral hygiene practices. Follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor your healing and proceed with any subsequent prosthodontic work.

How can I care for my mouth post-extraction?

Post-extraction care is vital for healing and preparing the site for any prosthodontic appliances. Important care tips include keeping the extraction site clean and avoiding disturbances, applying ice packs to the cheek to manage swelling, adhering to a soft diet, reintroducing other foods as healing progresses, and brushing and flossing your other teeth while avoiding the extraction site until fully healed.

If you’re considering tooth extraction, let us reassure you with our gentle, professional approach. Contact us today to arrange a consultation and discuss your options.