What You Should Know About Tooth Extraction

Tooth extraction is the process of removing a tooth from its dental alveolus. There are several reasons for the procedure, but periodontal disease and caries are the most common. Read on to learn more about this procedure. You might also be considering this procedure if you have a toothache or are diabetic. In a recent study, aging and diabetes were the two leading causes of tooth extractions. For more information about tooth extraction, visit Wildwood Family & Cosmetic Dentistry.

Pain associated with tooth extraction

Postoperative pain is joint after tooth extraction. This discomfort usually begins 2 to 4 hours after the procedure and gradually diminishes over the following 24 hours. The pain can be characterized as mild to severe and can be categorized as 'no pain' (0 mm) or 'unbearable' (100 mm) according to the VAS scale. The pain can be assessed through a phone call with an independent assessor.

Common complications of tooth extraction

A dry socket is one of the most common complications following a tooth extraction. The socket becomes dry because a blood clot does not form or breaks off too soon after the extraction. As a result, the socket opens, exposing the jawbone and bone beneath. Typically, this occurs two to five days after tooth extraction, resulting in a foul odor and taste. If this happens, seek emergency dental care immediately.

Age and diabetes are risk factors for extractions

Among adults, age and diabetes are risk factors for tooth extractions. However, age and diabetes do not appear to be significant risk factors for tooth extractions as sex and smoking habits. A total of 554 teeth were extracted from 120 consecutive patients in a study of adult patients. The study included surveys of the general health status of the participants as well as potential risk factors. The study also found that diabetes is associated with a higher incidence of periodontal disease and tooth extractions.

Caries and periodontal disease are the most common causes of extraction in a relatively old study population

A recent study showed that caries and periodontal disease are the two most common causes of tooth loss among older adults. Interestingly, smoking and education levels did not affect the proportion of tooth extractions caused by periodontal disease or caries. However, patients with diabetes and a smoking habit had significantly more teeth extracted from both conditions. These results suggest that combined use of these two health risks can result in severe periodontal disease and tooth loss.

Infection is a complication of tooth extraction

One of the most common complications after a tooth extraction is infection. Because the mouth is full of bacteria, the extraction site is prone to infection. Your dentist will decide whether to prescribe antibiotics to prevent the infection from taking hold. However, if the bleeding or discomfort persists for more than 48 hours, it is time to visit the dentist. Infection is a serious complication after a tooth extraction and is treatable.