Extracting the Truth: Understanding the Side Effects of Tooth Extraction

Side effects of tooth extraction

Are you considering removing one or more of your teeth? Before scheduling an appointment, it is essential to consider all the potential side effects of tooth extraction. Removing a tooth can have long-term consequences affecting oral health and overall well-being. Here is a detailed guide on tooth extraction process.

In this blog post, we will discuss the long-term effects of dental extractions so that you can make informed decisions on managing any necessary oral surgeries to maintain optimal oral health.

What is tooth extraction?

Tooth extraction is a surgical, dental process involving removing intact teeth from the jawbone and surrounding tissues. A dentist can perform a standard procedure to remove a damaged or decaying tooth, relieve overcrowding in the mouth, or prepare for specific orthodontic treatments. Tooth extraction requires careful planning by an experienced dentist and may involve local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia. Following an extraction, the patient needs to care for their wound appropriately and follow up as their dentist recommends to ensure proper healing.

The Procedure for Tooth Extraction:

An experienced dentist often performs the procedure after determining that the tooth cannot be saved through other methods, such as root canal therapy or dental filling. A local anaesthetic will be administered to numb the area around the tooth and reduce patient discomfort during removal to begin the process. When fully numb, the dentist uses forceps or specialised instruments to gently rock and loosen the tooth before being extracted from its socket. Following extraction, special care should be taken to prevent infection, such as taking prescribed medication and maintaining proper oral hygiene practices to promote healing.

Side Effects of Tooth Extraction

    • Pain and discomfort

Pain and discomfort are usual side effects of tooth extraction procedures. However, the severity of both can vary significantly from person to person. Some may experience only minor discomfort for a few days afterwards, while others may feel significant pain that can last longer and require additional care.

    • Swelling, bruising and bleeding

Swelling, bruising and bleeding are side effects to be aware of with tooth extraction. Swelling is often the first reaction after tooth extraction and may increase over the few days following the dental appointment. Although swelling can be concerning, it is an indicator that your body is in the healing process.

    • Dry socket

A dry socket is a possible side effect of tooth extraction that can be painful and cause discomfort. It occurs when the blood clot that initially forms over the extraction site breaks down, leaving an empty socket and exposing underlying nerves, bones and other soft tissue. Common symptoms associated with dry sockets include:

    • Facial pain that radiates to the ear.
    • An unpleasant taste in one’s mouth.
    • Increased bad breath.
    • Visible bone in the empty socket.
    • An unpleasant odour from the mouth.
    • Infection

Recently, the infection has been one of tooth extractions’ most common side effects. It can occur when bacteria enter the extraction site and multiply on an open wound, leading to serious health conditions. Good oral hygiene is essential and includes daily brushing and flossing to reduce the risk of infection after tooth extraction.

    • Nerve damage

Nerve damage is a known side effect of tooth extraction, although very rare. Damage to the inferior alveolar nerve can cause pain and numbness in various areas of the mouth, such as the gums, lower lip and chin. Patients may experience difficulty eating or speaking due to this nerve damage. It is vital that individuals seeking tooth extractions are aware of this potential risk so they can discuss alternatives with their doctors if necessary.

Tooth Extraction at Simply Dental Chatswood, Sydney NSW, Australia

It is necessary to consider all the pros and cons before getting your teeth extracted. Weighing out the good with the bad will help you decide whether or not this procedure is right for you. Asking your dentist questions and doing your research are both key in making sure that you make the best choice for YOU. They may be professionals, but at the end of the day, it’s YOUR smile.

To facilitate, we also have experienced dentists in Willoughby.

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