Tooth Extraction
Port of Spain, Trinidad
While our primary focus is on preventative care, we also perform tooth extractions regularly. We are always looking for ways to avoid an extraction by keeping your oral health in good shape. We provide regular cleanings, discuss healthy dietary choices, and treat gum disease, cavities, and infections to keep your teeth healthy and intact. As a general dentist, we also restore damaged teeth, helping you maintain your natural teeth for years to come.
If you are experiencing discomfort or need a tooth repair, we invite you to schedule an appointment with our dental office. During your examination, we will determine if your tooth can be saved or if an extraction is the best option to prevent infection and alleviate discomfort. In our office, we take all necessary steps to ensure your comfort, so you feel relaxed regardless of the treatment option you choose.
The process of having a tooth extraction
If you require a tooth extraction, there are several approaches to the procedure. Initially, we numb the affected area to ensure your comfort. While you may feel some pressure during the process, you’ll remain relaxed and free from direct discomfort.
For mature teeth that have broken through the gums, we use specialized dental tools to carefully loosen and remove the tooth from its socket. Following the extraction, we thoroughly clean the area and apply gauze to control bleeding during your recovery.
In cases of impacted teeth or those still below the surface (common with wisdom teeth), oral surgery may be necessary. This typically involves creating a small incision in the gums to form a flap, which we gently lift to access the impacted tooth. Often, we can then loosen and remove the tooth from its socket.
Sometimes, if bone or tissue covers the tooth, we need to remove this obstruction first. For particularly stubborn teeth, we may need to break them into smaller pieces for easier removal.
After successfully extracting the tooth, we meticulously clean the area. If a gum flap was created, we reposition it and secure it with sutures. Finally, we apply gauze to manage bleeding and promote healing.
How to care for your mouth after a tooth extraction
We perform tooth extractions using minimally invasive techniques to promote faster recovery. Patients typically recover in our office for about an hour post-procedure, allowing us to monitor bleeding and ensure the anesthesia is wearing off properly. We generally advise arranging for someone to drive you home after the extraction.
Once home, rest is crucial, and a nap is often beneficial. Stay hydrated, but avoid extremely hot or cold beverages, as these may cause sensitivity in the first few days. We also recommend refraining from using straws initially, as the suction could reopen the wound.
Recovery time varies depending on the specific procedure, but swelling usually subsides after a few days. To manage discomfort and swelling, we suggest taking ibuprofen and applying an ice pack or cold compress for 15-minute intervals.
During recovery, focus on soft, nutritious foods. Smoothies made with vegetables, fruit, yogurt, and protein powder are an excellent option to maintain nutrition without requiring chewing. Gradually reintroduce softer foods like noodles before returning to your regular diet.
Oral hygiene remains crucial post-extraction. Brush your other teeth as usual, carefully avoiding the surgical site. Rinsing with a mixture of water and baking soda or an antibacterial mouthwash can help prevent infection.
A follow-up appointment may be necessary to ensure proper healing. Our team is committed to providing comprehensive care throughout your recovery process.
Port of Spain Tooth Extraction
What you should know about wisdom teeth removal
If you still have your wisdom teeth, you may need to consider having them removed. We encourage you to schedule an appointment at our dental office for a thorough examination and X-rays to determine whether wisdom tooth extraction is necessary for you. It’s important to note that not everyone needs to have their wisdom teeth removed; the decision depends on factors such as available space in your mouth and whether the teeth are growing in straight or are impacted.
Additionally, if you’ve had orthodontic treatment, wisdom teeth removal might be recommended to prevent them from pushing other teeth forward and potentially undoing the results of your braces.
The process of removing wisdom teeth is generally similar to other tooth extractions, with the main differences being the timing and reasons for the procedure. We typically recommend wisdom teeth removal during the teenage years. In contrast, general extractions are more common in older adults, often due to severe infections or significant tooth damage.
To determine whether you should keep or remove your wisdom teeth, we invite you to schedule a consultation with our experienced dental team. During this appointment, we can assess your individual situation, discuss any potential risks or benefits, and develop a personalized treatment plan if extraction is deemed necessary.
Regular dental check-ups are crucial for monitoring the development and positioning of your wisdom teeth. Our goal is to ensure your overall oral health and prevent any potential complications that may arise from problematic wisdom teeth.
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Definition of Dental Terminology
Cosmetic Dentistry
Cosmetic dentistry is generally used to refer to any dental work that improves the appearance (though not necessarily the function) of a person’s teeth, gums and/or bite.
Tooth Decay
Tooth decay is when the enamel of the tooth begins to decay and cause erosion from plaque and tartar on the teeth.
Dental Caries
Dental caries are also known as cavities and result from a lack of proper oral hygiene leaving plaque that forms tiny holes in the teeth.
Dental Checkup
A dental checkup is an appointment that involves cleaning the teeth, identifying any signs of infection and removing said signs of infection at least once every six months in the office.
Dental Filling
A Dental filling involves restoring the structure of the tooth by using metal, alloy, porcelain or plastic to fill the tooth.
Dental Prophylaxis
A dental prophylaxis is a professional and detailed cleaning that involves the removal of plaque, calculus and stains from the teeth.
Dental Sealants
Dental sealants contain a resinous material that we apply to the chewing surfaces of the posterior teeth to prevent dental caries.
Dentist
A dentist, also known as a dental surgeon, is a doctor who specializes in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases and conditions of the oral cavity.
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the inflammation of gum tissue that results from plaque, other infections in the mouth and poor oral hygiene.
Preventive Dentistry
Preventive dentistry is the dentistry that focuses on maintaining oral health in order to prevent the spread of plaque, the formation of tartar and infections in the mouth.
Tartar
Tartar forms when plaque builds up on the surface of the teeth and calcifies into a hard surface that is much more difficult to remove and will require professional treatment.
Tooth Enamel
Tooth enamel is the protective visible outer surface of a tooth that contains the dentin and dental pulp.