What are the facts, Mississauga asks, about tooth removal

The concept is simple – removal of a tooth from its socket in the jaw bone. However, there is a little more to the procedure than that. Dr. Rina Kotecha, the dentist Mississauga families trust for reliable information and advice, shares these facts about tooth removal.

Purpose of tooth removal

Millions of teeth are extracted each year for reasons such as:

• To make space in a crowded bite.
• To aid in the effectiveness of orthodontic treatment.
• To removed badly decayed teeth.
• To eliminate problematic wisdom teeth.

Sadly, extractions are sometimes requested for economic reasons. Dr. Rina believes that every patient deserves a healthy natural smile, so she offers payment plans and financing options to preserve teeth when there is a reasonable alternative to extraction.

Other important information about extractions

• Preparation – If the infection is present, Dr. Rina may prescribe a pre-procedure course of antibiotics. If you have had heart surgery, placement of a shunt, or joint replacement please ask your physician if you must take antibiotics prior to extraction. Stop taking blood thinners (including aspirin) for three days prior to your appointment and wear comfortable clothing for the visit. Dr. Rina will let you know if you should forego food or water prior to the procedure, and if you will need a driver.
• Technique – In most cases Dr. Rina is able to loosen the tooth with an instrument called an elevator; then lift and remove it easily with forceps. Because your wellbeing is her top priority, if the extraction is very complex, she may provide a referral to a qualified oral surgeon.
• Aftercare – It is vital for a blood clot to form at the socket of an extracted tooth, to protect delicate nerves from air and food contamination. To encourage clot formation bite gently on a pad of sterile gauze for a few hours after extraction. Do not drink with a straw, rinse, spit, or smoke for at least 24 hours. Eat soft foods and avoid vigorous exercise for a few days. Clean your mouth gently with a soft toothbrush but do not scrub the extraction site.
• Normal results – You may have facial swelling, stiff jaw muscles, and minor mouth discomfort. Use ice packs for the first 72 hours, then moist heat and gentle jaw exercise. Dr. Rina may recommend over the counter analgesics or prescription pain medication. The wound typically closes in about two weeks, and bone and soft tissues fully restructure within six months.
• Potential risks – As with any medical procedure, there is some risk of secondary infection. Other potential complications include temporary numbness, jaw fracture, or dry socket. Be assured that Dr. Rina and her team at Dentistry on 10 maintain the highest sanitary and patient care standards to minimize risk of complications.

If you are in pain or contemplating tooth removal for other reasons, get the facts you need to make an informed decision. Call Dentistry on 10 at (905) 455-9262 for an appointment with Dr. Rina – your trusted partner in oral health.

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