An impact tooth extraction is usually only performed when the tooth cannot be saved. The dentist may also do an impacted tooth extraction to prevent crowding, infection, decay, cavities, and gum disease.
A tooth can become stuck in different positions, and dentists refer to these as distal, vertical, horizontal, or mesial impactions. If you are experiencing severe pain, you may need an emergency tooth removal. However, in most cases, you will be fully back to normal after seven to ten days.
What is an Impacted Tooth?
An impacted tooth can be fully or partially impacted and occurs when the tooth doesn’t break through the gum or only partially breaks through. They most often occur when there is not enough room for the tooth, and another tooth is in the way.
You may need an impacted tooth extraction because you are in pain, yet sometimes they cause no noticeable symptoms at all. Signs that you need an impact tooth extraction include swollen, red, or bleeding gums, a bad taste in the mouth, pain when biting, or difficulty opening your mouth.
In adults, an impacted wisdom tooth often requires dental removal.
What Does A Tooth Extraction Involve?
We understand that you may be nervous about an impacted tooth extraction. However, you won’t feel any pain, just a little pressure as the dentist performs the impacted tooth extraction. The dentist will numb the area with a local anaesthetic before any dental work.
The dentist may take an x-ray to assess the tooth’s condition and see if it could damage other teeth if not removed.
To alleviate any post-extraction symptoms, you can take over the counter painkillers and soothe any swelling with a cold compress. It is a good idea to cease using mouthwash for a day and avoid strenuous activity for 24 hours. It is also helpful to avoid eating hot food and take a little care not to dislodge the blood clot when eating or cleaning your teeth.
Many patients choose to rinse out their mouth with a salt-water mix. Simply add one teaspoon of salt to a glass of water and rinse out your mouth three or four times a day. If you smoke, you should avoid smoking as this slows down the healing process.
