Everything You Need to Know About Getting Teeth Extracted

Extractions are generally considered a last resort if other treatments can’t save the tooth. But wisdom teeth are an exception. These vestigial molars often don’t fit well in modern jaws. 

Wisdom teeth emerge later than other teeth, in the late teens or early twenties. Many mouths don’t have room for them. This leads to impaction, where the tooth gets trapped under the gum or pushes against neighboring teeth. Impactions are painful and can damage other teeth. 

These are the steps you can expect during your extraction:

1. Local or general anesthesia gets you numb and comfortable.
2. Dr. Dalwai does a simple extraction if the teeth have fully emerged.
3. If they’re impacted, he will do a surgical extraction.
4. Gauze is placed in the socket to control bleeding.

Whether a tooth can be saved depends on how badly it’s damaged. Sometimes a root canal restores its function, completed with a filling and/or crown. But if a tooth is too far gone, extraction stops the infection from spreading. 

To get ready for an extraction, arrange transportation if you’ll be sedated. Take time off work or school so you can recover comfortably. The staff will tell you what you can eat and how to prepare. 

After your tooth is removed, Dr. Dalwai will discuss options like dental implants and bridges with you. The timing depends on your overall health and the healing process. Sometimes, implants can be placed right after extraction, but other situations may require a few months for the bone to heal.