DEFINITION:

An extraction is the removal of a tooth from the mouth. There are two types of extractions:

•Simple extractions are performed on teeth that are visible in the mouth, that are not excessively damaged by tooth decay, and that can be extracted without complications. The procedure, done under local anesthesia, involves the dentist lifting the tooth using an elevator and then proceeding to remove it using dental forceps.

•Surgical extractions involve the removal of teeth that cannot be easily accessed, that have very curved roots, or that are destroyed by tooth decay. The procedure requires the gum surrounding the tooth to be cleared away, as well as the bone tissue. The tooth may be separated in many pieces before the extraction, and stitches allows the integrity of the gum during the recovery.

There are a few possible complications that can occur during or after a dental extraction, such as:

•Infection. Antibiotics can be prescribed by the dentist if needed.

•Prolonged bleeding. The bleeding should stop shortly after the extraction, thought some blood might appear up to 48 hours after the procedure. The bleeding can be controlled by placing cotton gauze in the extraction area and by closing the mouth to create a pressure. A wet tea bag, helping the formation of blood clot, can also replace the cotton. Spitting and rinsing should be avoided for the first 24 hours to avoid causing a dry socket.

•Pain. The pain can last a few days; therefore pain killers recommended or prescribed by the dentist can be taken.

•Swelling. In cases of complicated extractions, there could be swelling of the face and even change of colour of the skin.

•Dry socket. A dry socket, a temporary condition, can appear when the clot formed on the bone cavity is dislodged or forms very slowly. It is characterized by intense pain, a bad taste in the mouth, and sometimes difficulty opening the mouth. Smoking should be avoided. It can lasts a few days and can be relieved by the placement of a dressing soaked in eugenol in the dental office.

•Paresthesia. During the extraction of a tooth, the nerve is very rarely touched. If it is the case, it can cause a loss of sensitivity, affecting the tongue or the bottom teeth. The loss of sensitivity is rare, and is generally temporary, though exceptionally could be permanent.

APPLICATIONS:

Extractions can be recommended for many reasons. The main one being a cavity that has destroyed a good amount of tooth structure which cannot be restored. Impacted teeth (i.e. wisdom teeth) are also routinely extracted.

SOURCES:     Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia (www.wikipedia.org).

                            WebMD, better information, better health (www.webmd.com).