Tooth Extractions in Penge, London
NHS & Private
At Green Lane Dental Practice, we, as dentists, always strive to save teeth whenever possible. However, saving a tooth might not be feasible in some situations, and extraction becomes the best option. We offer pain-free tooth extraction services in South London.
When is “Tooth Extractions” Necessary?
While we usually aim to save teeth through procedures like fillings and, in cases of nerve damage, a root canal, there are times when extraction is recommended. This includes cases where decay extends deep beneath the gum, the tooth is cracked, severe periodontal disease is evident, or when a tooth infection cannot be resolved.
Do All Wisdom Teeth Require Extractions?
No, they don’t. We employ digital X-rays to assess the health of your wisdom teeth. Some individuals retain their wisdom teeth throughout their lives without complications, even using them for chewing. However, if issues such as cavities, infections, or gum inflammation arise, tooth extractions of the wisdom teeth might be the best course of action.
Are Tooth Extractions Painful?
Contrary to common beliefs, tooth extractions are designed to relieve pain. The procedure is typically painless, as patients are numbed during the process. What patients might feel is some pressure. Instead of “pulling teeth, ” we apply gentle pressure to the tooth, prompting the ligaments holding it to release and remove the tooth traumatically. At our clinic, Dr. Max efficiently and gently extracts teeth, often in mere minutes.
Should I Replace the Missing Tooth?
After an extraction, other teeth might gradually shift into the vacant space. This movement is slow, taking over a year to become noticeable. Upper teeth might move downwards to fill the gap, while adjacent teeth could lean inwards. Generally, a dental implant is recommended as the best option for replacing a missing tooth. Typically, a dentist will wait around four months for the bone to regenerate before implant placement. In some cases, the implant can be placed immediately after extraction. There are also scenarios where a dentist may suggest a bone graft during extraction to facilitate future implant placement.
Post-extraction Pain
Pain levels post-extraction vary between individuals. Most experience minimal discomfort. The bone supporting upper wisdom teeth is softer, typically resulting in lesser discomfort after extraction. However, the dense bone supporting lower wisdom teeth may cause pain and discomfort for a day or two after extraction. We provide pain medications to help manage and reduce any post-procedure discomfort.
Will there be a hole after the extraction?
The gums usually heal within a few weeks, covering the extraction socket. There might be an initial unfamiliar sensation, but this typically subsides within days.
Aftercare Post Tooth Extractions
We advise patients to maintain a soft diet after an extraction. For the initial 24 hours, avoid spitting forcefully, smoking, and using straws for drinking. This is crucial because the forming blood clot is fragile during the first 24-48 hours. Actions like forceful spitting or smoking can displace this clot, leading to a painful condition called dry socket. If you experience pain lasting more than three days post-extraction, it’s essential to consult a dentist. A dry socket can be treated by placing a medicated dressing over the extraction socket, which alleviates pain and discomfort.