Tooth Extractions in Saskatoon
Dealing with a severely damaged or painful tooth can be stressful.
We always try to save natural teeth, but sometimes removing a tooth is the safest and most effective way to protect your oral health.
At Willowgreen Dental, we provide clear information throughout the tooth extraction process, ensuring you understand each step of your care.
When is a Tooth Extraction Recommended?
Our team only recommends removing a tooth if it is necessary for your health. Knowing what to do for severe toothache can help manage pain before your visit. If you are in severe pain, you may require emergency dentistry services to address the issue immediately. These can include:
- Severe tooth decay
- Advanced gum disease (periodontitis)
- An impacted tooth that cannot erupt properly
- To relieve overcrowding of teeth
- To prepare for orthodontic treatment
- A fractured tooth or root that cannot be repaired
- To eliminate a source of infection, such as a dental abscess.
Types of Tooth Extraction Procedures
There are two primary types of tooth extractions. After a thorough examination, our dentists will recommend the most appropriate procedure for your situation.
1.
A simple extraction is performed on a tooth that is fully visible above the gumline. Local anesthetic is used to ensure the area is completely numb and you remain comfortable throughout the procedure.
2.
Surgical extractions are required for teeth that are not easily accessible, such as a tooth that has broken at the gumline or a wisdom tooth that is impacted (stuck) beneath the gum. Our dentists are experienced in performing surgical extractions when required.
The Extraction Process
We design our extraction process to be clear and easy to understand for our patients. Meet our dentists, Dr. Dunlop and Dr. Hunter, who are focused on providing comprehensive care throughout this process.
Our dentist will conduct a comprehensive examination of your tooth and mouth, including taking X-rays, to plan the extraction.
We will numb the area around the tooth with a local anesthetic. We will not proceed until the area is fully numb and you are ready.
Using specialized dental instruments, your dentist will carefully and efficiently remove the tooth.
After the procedure, we will provide you with clear, detailed instructions on how to care for the extraction site to promote proper healing.
Caring for Your Smile After
Proper aftercare is essential for a smooth recovery. Here are some helpful tips:
- Avoid strenuous activity for the first 24 hours.
- Do not smoke or use straws for the first few days, as this can dislodge the blood clot.
- Beginning 24 hours after the procedure, gently rinse your mouth with a warm salt water solution a few times a day.
- Eat soft foods like soup, yogurt, and mashed potatoes for the first few days.
- Take any pain medication as directed by your dentist.
- Follow all specific instructions provided by our team to support healing.
Understanding the Risks
While tooth extraction is a routine and safe procedure, it is important to be aware of potential risks, as with any dental surgery. These can include:
Severe pain and swelling
These are typical post-surgical effects that can occur after a tooth extraction.
Bleeding
Some bleeding is normal after a routine extraction, but excessive or prolonged bleeding could be a sign of a problem.
Dry Socket
This painful condition occurs when a blood clot fails to develop in the tooth socket after extraction or if the blood clot becomes dislodged or dissolves too soon.
Infection
There's always a risk of infection following a surgical procedure, including tooth extraction.
Damage to Nearby Teeth
The extraction process could inadvertently cause damage to adjacent teeth.
Nerve Injury
This might result in numbness or altered lower lip, tongue or chin sensation.
Osteoradionecrosis
A rare complication usually associated with radiation therapy to the head and neck. It can cause severe damage to the jawbone.
Bite Collapse and Improper Alignment of Tooth
Remaining teeth can shift into the empty space. Prevent this by exploring options for replacing a missing molar tooth.
Perforation of Maxillary Sinus
This is particularly relevant in the extraction of upper molars, where the tooth's roots are often near the maxillary sinus.
Delayed Healing
Certain conditions, such as diabetes, can slow the healing process after a dental extraction.
At Willowgreen Dental, our team will review these risks with you and provide guidance to support your recovery. We will discuss all potential complications with you so you can make a fully informed decision about your care.
Your Partner for Tooth Extractions in Saskatoon
We understand that tooth extractions can be intimidating, and our team is here to support you through the process. Contact Willowgreen Dental to discuss your options for tooth extractions in Saskatoon.
Get In Touch With Us
Phone Number
Hours of Operation
Monday 7:30am – 4:30pm
Tuesday 7:30am – 4:30pm
Wednesday 7:30am – 4:30pm
Thursday 9:00am - 5:30pm
Friday 7:30am – 3:00pm