In some cases, a tooth must be removed. Whether due to severe decay, impacted wisdom teeth or overcrowding, our dentists will do the procedure with care and comfort.

A local anesthetic will numb the tooth, jaw bone and gum tissue during a tooth extraction. Oral sedatives, nitrous oxide or intravenous conscious sedation might be used for more complex extractions.

Preparation

Often a dental extraction Kissimmee FL is needed for serious dental problems, such as unrepairable decay, advanced periodontal disease, overcrowding, or in preparation for orthodontic treatment. A tooth extraction can also be necessary when wisdom teeth have impacted or broken in a way that cannot be repaired.

Patients who need tooth extractions will be given pre-extraction instructions from their dentist, including specific post-op care guidelines. It’s important to follow these guidelines so that the healing process goes smoothly. They typically include avoiding strenuous activities that could dislodge blood clots from the extraction site, eating soft foods, and taking any painkillers that are prescribed.

If a patient is being treated under sedation, it’s wise to arrange transportation home after the procedure. Some types of sedation can make it unsafe to drive, so patients should have someone to accompany them and ensure that they’re able to get home safely. It’s also a good idea to take ice packs to the face near the extraction site to reduce swelling.

Sedation

Sedation is the administration of medication to help you feel calm and relaxed during a dental procedure. Sometimes called sleep dentistry, sedation allows you to remain awake but in a state of deep relaxation. This reduces discomfort and anxiety, and most patients do not remember their dental procedure once the treatment is over.

There are several types of sedation that we can administer to you during a dental extraction Kissimmee fl. Nitrous oxide, often referred to as “laughing gas,” is one of the most common. It is administered through a mask that pumps in oxygen and nitrous oxide. In as few as five minutes, you will begin to feel euphoric and less anxious. We will gradually decrease the flow of this medication.

For more extensive or complicated procedures, we may recommend intravenous (IV) sedation. This method delivers medication directly into your bloodstream, so it takes effect quickly and is ideal for reducing pre-surgical anxiety. It can also be used to treat patients with severe dental anxiety or those with a hyperactive gag reflex.

Extracting the Tooth

While preserving natural teeth is always the preferred option, there are situations in which tooth extraction is necessary to safeguard your dental health. Your dentist may decide to extract a severely decayed tooth; or an impacted wisdom tooth that is preventing the permanent tooth beneath it from fully erupting, leading to overcrowding or other dental problems.

Surgical tooth extractions can also be necessary when a baby tooth has not fallen out by the time your child is ready for his or her permanent teeth, and is preventing the adult tooth from coming in properly.

After the tooth is removed, a blood clot will form over the site, and it is important to avoid disturbing this clot by not rinsing or brushing vigorously or using straws. This could dislodge the clot and lead to a painful condition called dry socket. It is recommended to drink lots of water and eat soft foods while the tooth is healing, and to take pain medication as directed.

Post-Extraction Care

After a tooth extraction, it is important to protect the blood clot that forms in the socket. Biting firmly on the gauze pad that was placed is an effective way to reduce bleeding and halt any heavy oozing. The pad should be replaced after about an hour if it becomes soaked in blood. It is also important to avoid vigorous rinsing, using straws, smoking or other activities that could dislodge the clot and interfere with healing.

During a tooth extraction, the dentist may use a sedative to keep you relaxed and comfortable. They may provide oral sedatives, nitrous oxide or intravenous conscious sedation. These methods of sedation are safe and effective for most patients.

It is important to resume a regular dental routine after 24 hours, including brushing and flossing your teeth, as soon as you are comfortable. Rinsing your mouth with lukewarm salt water (1/2 teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of water) several times a day can help speed healing and keep the area clean.