Tooth Extraction Procedure
Before any tooth extraction, you will have a consultation with Dr. Lee. He will examine your teeth and take x-rays to ensure an extraction is the right treatment option for your needs. If there is an alternative solution to tooth extraction, he will discuss the pros and cons of each option with you. We offer a number of restorative treatments that can restore your tooth back to health without the need for an extraction.
However, if you believe extraction is your best treatment option, or it’s the only treatment option, he will proceed with the treatment. We want to make sure you feel comfortable during the entire treatment process. If you’re prone to dental anxiety or need help relaxing for the procedure, Dr. Lee will provide you with sedation dentistry in addition to local anesthesia. You will feel relaxed and no pain at all during the procedure.
Teeth that aren’t impacted are much easier to remove. Dr. Lee may remove your tooth in pieces if necessary. For impacted teeth, Dr. Lee will cut a flap in the gums and then through any bone material to reach the tooth. Then he will break the tooth and remove it in pieces. After removing the tooth, he will clean the area and suture the flap back in place. He will then place gauze over the socket to stop the bleeding.
Wisdom Tooth Extraction
A common type of tooth extraction that most people experience in their life is wisdom tooth extraction. Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars that typically erupt in the late teens or early twenties. Some people never get their wisdom teeth, some only get one, and others can have all four. When the wisdom teeth begin coming in, you may experience pain and discomfort in the back of your mouth.
Most people need their wisdom teeth extracted because there’s either not enough room in the mouth to accommodate the teeth, or the teeth are impacted. Impacted teeth are teeth that will not grow straight. Without extraction, wisdom teeth can cause severe pain, infection, and harm surrounding teeth and cause crowding. Extracting wisdom teeth is essential to prevent more severe problems from occurring down the line.
When you visit us for regular cleanings and exams, we will always look at your x-rays to see if the wisdom teeth are coming in. This will also tell us when it’s the right time to extract them.
If you think you need a wisdom tooth extraction, please book a consultation with Dr. Lee.
Extraction Aftercare
After your extraction, it’s crucial to take good care of the extraction site so you don’t experience a dry socket or infection. We recommend that patients who get sedation dentistry arrange for a ride to and from their appointment. Additionally, we recommend the following aftercare tips:
- No smoking or drinking through a straw (no sucking)
- Take over the counter pain relievers regularly to reduce swelling and pain
- Apply ice packs to the jaw in 15-minute increments to prevent swelling
- Avoid brushing in the extraction site while it heals
- Eat only soft foods
Dr. Lee will provide you with specific aftercare instructions before your procedure. By following our aftercare tips, you can look forward to a speedy recovery.
Find Out if Tooth Extractions in Baulkham Hills are Right For You
Do you think you need a tooth extraction? Has another dentist said you need one? If you think you’re in need of a tooth extraction, please contact our Sydney dentist to learn if it’s the right treatment option for you. Please call (02) 9686 7375 to book an appointment at My Hills Dentist today.