What Are the Complications of Tooth Extractions?

When it comes to keeping your smile healthy, preserving your natural teeth is usually the goal of most dental procedures. In some cases, removing a problematic tooth is the best way to prevent other complications. The friendly and professional team at Walnut Creek Dental East in Groveport, OH, is here to ensure your tooth extraction goes as smoothly as possible. Before scheduling your appointment, you should know about preventing complications after dental extraction.

Tooth Extraction Overview

A tooth extraction is a dental procedure that includes removing a permanent tooth from its socket. This could be necessary for a variety of reasons, including:

• The tooth is damaged beyond repair
• The patient is preparing for orthodontic treatment, and the tooth is in the way
• Removal of wisdom teeth to prevent dental problems or resolve an existing issue

What is the Process of Getting a Tooth Extracted?

While removing a tooth may sound scary, the process is typically fast and painless. At Walnut Creek, patients also have the option to use IV sedation for tooth extractions. Here’s what you expect during your tooth extraction procedure done at Walnut Creek Dental East by one of our dental professionals:

• The dentist will numb the area around the problematic tooth using local anesthesia.
• Then, he will carefully remove the tooth by grabbing it with a special tool and rocking it back and forth.
• After removing the tooth, the empty socket will be cleaned and disinfected.
• Finally, the socket will be closed with stitches.

What Does the Treatment After the Procedure Look Like?

In the first 24 hours after removing a tooth, it’s normal to experience mild bleeding and discomfort. Following the dentist’s instructions for caring for the incision site after your procedure is crucial to ensure that the area heals as quickly and smoothly as possible.

To keep your incision site in good condition during the healing process, be sure to:

• Rest during the first 24 hours
• Place ice packs on your face to reduce intense pain and swelling
• Eat soft foods (gradually introduce harder foods as the site heals)
• Be very careful brushing around the incision
• Take OTC pain medications as needed for discomfort
• Avoid smoking, using a straw, and drinking hot liquids 

Can There Be Complications From a Tooth Extraction?

While the risk of complications from a tooth extraction is rare, they can happen. Potential risks that can occur after a tooth extraction include the following:

• Dry Socket: This is the most common complication within the first three days after surgery. When the blood clot that naturally forms in the pocket of the gums becomes dislodged and exposes the nerves and bone of the jaw, this can result in severe pain and a slower healing process within the extraction socket.
• Infection: Signs of infection within the area due to bacteria or food particles entering the incension site.
• Nerve Damage: In rare cases, a patient may experience tingling or numbness in their mouth from a damaged nerve, which can be permanent.
• Bone Damage: If a tooth extraction isn’t properly performed, it’s possible for bone damage to occur, which can also negatively impact the sinus area. 

Schedule Your Tooth Extraction at Walnut Creek Dental East

Walnut Creek Dental East is the best place to visit to help maintain your dental health if you’re looking for dental care for your ideal tooth extraction. The team is well-equipped to ensure that your surgical tooth extraction is performed with exceptional care and that your healing process goes smoothly. To learn more about simple tooth extraction and how you can help maintain your oral hygiene, contact our office today to schedule an appointment. We look forward to helping you maintain a healthy smile for life.