7 Best Ways to Tackle Burning Mouth Syndrome


Have you ever had a nice cup of hot coffee and suddenly felt a surge of burning sensation running through your mouth? If yes, don’t worry; it is common, and you are not alone. It is called “Burning Mouth Syndrome” (BMS).
 

What is burning mouth syndrome? 

Burning Mouth Syndrome, or BMS, is a chronic condition that affects the mouth, tongue, or lips, causing a burning sensation, dryness, and a metallic taste. Burning Mouth Syndrome can be painful, irritating, and confusing. It can occur anywhere in the mouth or throat. BMS frequently appears out of nowhere. There are numerous causes and therapies available. However, with the right combination of diet, medication, and professional consultation, you can get to the bottom of BMS and ease the pain. In this blog, we will discuss several ways to manage the symptoms of BMS and improve quality of life. 

How can I relieve myself of the burning mouth syndrome? 

Sucking on ice chips or chewing gum may help alleviate your discomfort. Prescription medicine, such as clonazepam, whether topical or systemic, may also help with pain relief. Working with the doctor on prescribed medicine is an important step towards relief. 

7 best ways to help you relieve the burning or tingling sensations 

  1. Practice good oral hygiene: Maintaining good oral hygiene can help alleviate the symptoms of BMS. Brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily to prevent infections and reduce inflammation.
  2. Avoid irritants: Certain foods and drinks can aggravate BMS symptoms. Avoid spicy or acidic foods, carbonated beverages, and alcohol. Also, avoid smoking and using tobacco products, as they can dry out your mouth and worsen the symptoms.
  3. Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help keep your mouth moist and reduce the burning sensation. It’s recommended to drink at least eight glasses of water a day.
  4. Use saliva substitutes: Saliva substitutes are available over the counter and can help relieve the dry mouth symptoms of BMS. These products mimic the action of saliva and provide a lubricating effect in the mouth.
  5. Try relaxation techniques: Stress and anxiety can worsen BMS symptoms. Try relaxation techniques like meditation, deep breathing, or yoga to help manage stress and improve your overall well-being.
  6. Consider medication: In some cases, medication may be necessary to manage BMS symptoms. The dentist may prescribe medications, such as antidepressants, anticonvulsants, or pain relievers, depending on the severity of your symptoms.
  7. Consult with the dentist: If you experience persistent burning sensations in your mouth, it’s essential to see a doctor or dentist. A dental expert can help diagnose the condition and suggest appropriate treatment options.

Conclusion 

In conclusion, BMS can be a frustrating and uncomfortable condition to manage. However, following these ways can reduce your burning sensation and improve your quality of life. And don’t forget to take regular oral check-ups at Bravo! Dental care is important for you to find relief from burning mouth syndrome.

7 Major Benefits of Root Canal Treatment


Did you know that this week is Root Canal Awareness Week? Yes, and that’s why we wanted to highlight the major benefits of root canal treatment.
 

Root canal therapy is a dental operation that alleviates pain caused by an infected or abscessed tooth (a pocket of pus caused by bacteria). The inflammatory pulp is removed during the root canal procedure. After cleaning and disinfecting the internal surfaces of the tooth, a filling is put in to seal the area. Root canal therapy is practically painless and usually causes fewer issues throughout recovery than having your original tooth pulled. However, that’s not all; getting a root canal treatment can help you in many other ways, and here are a few: 

Stops tooth loss 

There are several approaches to dealing with a decaying or cavity-ridden tooth. Some individuals prefer tooth extraction to remove painful teeth. However, tooth extraction leaves gaps between teeth, leading to problems. Patients do not have to worry about losing their teeth with a root canal, which helps to preserve the natural arrangement of their teeth. 

 Prevents infection 

The primary cause of decay in the tooth cavity is frequent pulp infections. If not treated, the diseased pulp continues to harbor such bacteria, which can rapidly spread to neighboring teeth. A root canal is consequently necessary for removing the diseased pulp that harbors germs, preventing their growth and spread. 

Maintains healthy teeth  

You only get one set of teeth in this life, so keeping them in good condition for as long as possible is critical. A root canal also helps to keep your teeth safe and healthy by halting the problem and preventing further damage. 

Eases the procedure 

A tooth extraction necessitates numerous lengthy and costly visits to the dentist for follow-up appointments for a denture, bridge, or implant, not to mention that these restorations may take weeks or even months to arrive from the lab. The implant procedure is so time-consuming that it can take up to a year before you have a tooth again. Who has the time for all of that? Root canals, on the other hand, can normally be completed in a single appointment lasting less than an hour. 

Prevents teeth shifting 

Did you realize that your teeth support each other? When a tooth is extracted or falls out due to disease, the good teeth around it can shift, limiting your eating ability and ruining your smile. At times like this, root canals can help you save your tooth from shifting to another place. 

Provides aesthetic appearance  

Everyone wants an appealing smile, but having broken or decaying teeth makes this difficult. A root canal will not only relieve pain and infection but will also help restore your smile. To complete the surgery, crowns, and fillings will be needed, which will also complete your look.  

Improves overall health  

Studies have shown that oral health is closely related to overall health. As a result, it is critical to take your dental problems seriously; they influence more than just your mouth and teeth. Enduring a root canal for an hour is preferable to ending up in the emergency room. 

Conclusion 

Despite the common misconception that root canals are painful and ineffective, it is a vital function in dentistry to preserve natural teeth. If you have dental pain, think about your oral and overall health. A little discomfort could save you a lot of trouble in the long run. So, book an appointment at Bravo! Dental if you experience any kind of tooth pain or discomfort. Spread this root canal awareness to your loved ones and friends to save all their smiles too.

Top 5 Benefits of Getting a CBCT Scan


Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) technology is a type of dental imaging that produces 3D images of a patient’s oral and maxillofacial regions (face and jaw). This technology is becoming increasingly popular in modern-day dentistry due to its many benefits.
 

In this blog, we will explore how getting a CBCT scans benefits patients. 

What is CBCT Technology? 

CBCT scanning system is used when standard dental or face X-rays are insufficient. In a single scan, this type of CT scanner generates three-dimensional (3-D) images of dental structures, soft tissues, nerve routes, and bone in the craniofacial region using specialized technology. In addition, cone beam CT images enable more precise treatment planning. 

How Does CBCT Technology Work? 

The CBCT scanner rotates around the patient’s head, taking hundreds of images from different angles. The images are then reconstructed by a computer, creating a 3D model of the patient’s mouth, teeth, and jaws. The whole process takes only a few minutes, and the result is a detailed image that allows dentists to see the patient’s anatomy in a way that was not possible with traditional 2D X-rays. 

Benefits of CBCT Technology 

  1. Accurate Diagnosis

The 3D images produced by CBCT technology allow dentists to diagnose your dental problems with higher accuracy. This is because they can see the patient’s teeth, jawbones, and other oral structures from all angles. As a result, even the most complex dental issues can be accurately diagnosed, leading to better treatment outcomes. 

  1. Improved Treatment Planning

CBCT technology enables dentists to create a detailed treatment plan that takes into account the patient’s unique anatomy. It helps your dentist to plan procedures such as dental implants or orthodontic treatment with greater precision, resulting in better outcomes. 

  1. Reduced Radiation Exposure and Non-Invasive

Compared to traditional CT scans, CBCT technology exposes patients to much lower radiation levels. The scanning process is quick, painless, and non-invasive. It does not require the use of contrast agents or needles, which can cause discomfort and complications in some patients. This makes it a safer imaging option, particularly for patients requiring multiple scans or more sensitive to radiation exposure or other chemicals. 

  1. Time-Efficient

CBCT scans take only a few minutes to complete so patients can get in and out of the dental office quickly. It is especially beneficial for patients who have a busy schedule and can’t afford to spend a lot of time at the dentist’s office. 

  1. Enhanced Patient Understanding

The 3D images CBCT technology produces enable dentists to show patients exactly what’s going on inside their mouths. This can help patients understand their dental issues better, which can lead to better compliance with treatment recommendations. 

Conclusion 

In conclusion, CBCT technology is revolutionizing the world of dentistry, helping patients get faster and more effective treatment. As technology continues to evolve, even more benefits will likely emerge. Bravo! Dental is one of the very few dental offices which uses CBCT. We always look for safe and advanced technologies to improve your oral health. So, take your CBCT scan at Bravo! Dental today.

Dental Best Practices and Tips for Healthy and Happy Teeth


Taking care of our dental hygiene is something that we often overlook in our daily lives. We brush our teeth quickly in the morning and sometimes forget to floss before bed, thinking it’s not a big deal. However, poor dental hygiene can lead to serious problems such as cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss. In addition, it is dental hygienist month, and what better way is there for us to celebrate than by sharing our knowledge with you on dental hygiene. 
 

So, let’s dive in and learn how to keep our teeth and gums healthy and happy!  

Brushing 

Brushing your teeth is one of the most important things you can do to maintain good dental hygiene. Here are some tips for brushing your teeth effectively: 

  • Use the right toothbrush with soft bristles and a small head to reach all areas of your mouth. 
  • Follow the right technique by holding your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gums and brush in a circular motion. Be sure to brush all surfaces of your teeth, including the fronts, backs, and chewing surfaces. 
  • Brush for at least two minutes twice a day. 

Flossing 

Flossing is just as important as brushing for maintaining good dental hygiene, which includes: 

  • Choose the right floss that is comfortable for you to use, whether waxed or unwaxed. 
  • Hold the floss tightly between your thumbs and forefingers and slide it gently between your teeth. Curve the floss around each tooth and use a back-and-forth motion to remove plaque and food particles. 
  • Floss regularly, at least once a day, preferably before bed. 

Mouthwash 

Mouthwash can be a helpful addition to your dental hygiene routine, but it’s not a substitute for brushing and flossing. Tips to effectively use mouthwash: 

  • Opt for a mouthwash that is designed for your specific needs, whether it’s for freshening breath, fighting cavities, or reducing plaque. 
  • Pour the recommended amount of mouthwash into a cup and swish it around your mouth for 30 seconds to one minute. 
  • Use mouthwash after brushing and flossing or at another time of day that works for you. 

Diet 

What you eat and drink can greatly impact your dental hygiene. Here are some tips for maintaining a tooth-friendly diet: 

  • Avoid sugary and acidic foods and drinks, leading to tooth decay and erosion. 
  • Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy products. 
  • Drink plenty of water that helps rinse away food particles and keeps your mouth hydrated. 

Conclusion 

Maintaining good dental hygiene is essential for your overall health and well-being. Following these best practices and instructions can keep your teeth and gums healthy and happy for years. Though you follow all these carefully, a regular dental check-up, at least twice a year, is always best. Visit our dental experts at Bravo! Dental to get your teeth checked up and maintain dental hygiene.

Dental aligners for seniors: What you should know


The first thought that might come to mind when you think of straightening teeth is a generation of teenagers wearing braces or aligners. But orthodontic treatments, such as braces or aligners, aren’t just for youngsters. Today, even senior adults are getting healthy smiles with orthodontics treatments.
 

Reasons why seniors need aligners? 

Orthodontics treatments like dental or teeth aligners for seniors can help you get the smile you’ve always wanted or treat dental health issues that have developed over time. It can also prevent the development of further orthodontic problems. Your teeth may have even been straightened when you were younger, but now that they have relapsed, you must restore them. 

Dental aligners can also enhance your quality of life. They can help you overcome jaw pain, headaches, or TMJ related orthodontic problems. 

Your dental and physical health both benefit from fixing crooked teeth or a faulty bite. You are less likely to develop dental decay, cavities, and gum disease if you have straight teeth since they are simpler to brush and floss. 

Now that you know why you need to get dental aligners as a senior, let’s dive into some of their major advantages. 

Advantages of dental aligners for seniors: 

Increases functionality: As a senior you might have trouble eating, it’s possible that your teeth don’t fit together properly in your bite. It might be challenging to chew food when you have an open bite or overjet, which is very frustrating. Your teeth can be stacked into alignment by realigning your bite using dental aligners, which will make eating easier once again. 

Improves dental hygiene: It takes more effort to effectively brush and floss around and between crowded, misaligned teeth; they are also difficult to keep clean. Moreover, poor oral hygiene increases your risk of developing cavities, gum disease, tooth decay, and even tooth loss in your older age. With dental aligners’ help, maintaining oral hygiene will be easy. 

Easy Restoration: As we age, our bites tend to get deeper. Moreover, a very deep bite can be difficult on the teeth and speed up tooth deterioration. A dental aligner helps your teeth to move to the proper position making your bite easier gradually and helps in teeth restoration. 

Prevents future problems: Maybe you’ve had a few minor tooth problems over the course of your adult life, but they haven’t interfered with your daily life or oral health. Yet, teeth continue to shift as we age, and as you age, your minor orthodontic issues may worsen. Orthodontic treatments like aligners for adults can stop problems from getting worse. 

End note 

If you’re worried, you’re already old to have a straight smile, relax; the truth is that you can get your teeth straightened at any age with the proper treatment. With dental aligners, you can achieve excellent results and straighten your teeth more subtly than with traditional braces, which involve brackets and wires.  

So, book your appointment now at Bravo! Dental and get the straighter teeth you’ve always desired. 

Why is Oral Cancer Screening Essential?


Cancer remains a major global health concern, and early detection is key in increasing the chances of successful treatment. Oral cancer often goes undetected until later stages. However, regular dental check-ups and oral cancer screenings can help with early diagnosis and potentially save lives. 
 

Many of us are unaware of oral cancer and the need to be screened for it early on. That is why, in observance of April’s National Oral Cancer Awareness Month, we would like to emphasize the importance of oral cancer screening tests in this blog. 

Oral cancer screening: What is it? 

It is a medical examination carried out to look for precancerous cells in oral cavity. It can accurately detect the different types of oral cancers. 

This is carried out during routine dental visits, especially if your dentist notices a problem with how your mouth feels. A dental health professional can find oral cancer early in about 84% of instances. 

How can I know I have a risk of developing mouth cancer? 

The following are some critical risk factors to help you be aware: 

  • Age (Those over 40 are more at risk).  
  • Using tobacco or smoking. 
  • Heavy drinking. 
  • H. Papilloma Virus (HPV). 
  • Gender (Men are more susceptible than women).  
  • Unhealthy eating. 
  • Excessive exposure to the sun.  

People diagnosed with oral cancer have at least one of the risk factors. 

But do you know an alarming fact? 

There has been a rise in cases where individuals with no risk factors are diagnosed with this condition. So, oral cancer screenings are still crucial to preserve your general health, even if you have none of the abovementioned risks. 

Understanding of Oral Cancer 

Most of the time, you might believe that your oral health is under control, but it is a must to be aware of other kinds of oral cancer. The typical types are: 

  • Lip cancer (caused by prolonged exposure to UV radiation). 
  • Tongue-related cancer 
  • Mouth cancer 
  • Gum cancer 

What are the advantages of taking a dental cancer screening? 

The tests may seem needless, yet they are crucial for the following reasons: 

  1. Early cancer detection increases the likelihood of a successful treatment outcome compared to waiting until later stages. 
  2. No one ever asks to develop cancer in order to establish risk factors. It is impossible to calculate your risk of oral cancer without screenings. 
  3. A screening session may reveal that you are cancer-free and help avoid mouth cancer. But, if you are a high-risk patient, this consultation with the dentist can be especially valuable in helping you take steps to prevent cancer. 

Like many other cancers, oral cancer can only be cured if detected early. The only way to do this is to have regular oral screenings.  

Consult our professionals at Bravo! Dental to always stay on the safer side. We take a keen examination with OralID cancer screening and ensure your oral health is in ship shape. So, on this Oral Cancer Awareness Month, let’s spread the need for and importance of taking an oral cancer screening test, prioritize our oral health, and work towards a healthier, cancer-free future.

Why do you need to get a dental X-ray?


Imagine sitting in the dentist’s chair, mouth wide open, while your dentist takes X-rays of your teeth. You might wonder, “What’s the point of all this?” Well, wonder no more! In this blog, we’ll explore the purpose and procedure of dental X-rays.
 

What are dental X-rays?  

Dental X-rays are images of your teeth and the surrounding structures your dentist uses to get a closer look at what’s happening inside your mouth. They are an essential diagnostic tool that can help your dentist identify problems that may not be visible to the naked eye. 

What can dental X-rays detect? 

Dental X-rays assist the dentist in diagnosing a variety of oral health conditions such as: 

  • Cavities. 
  • Degradation beneath old fillings. 
  • Deteriorating jawbone. 
  • Oral Infections. 
  • Impacted or unerupted teeth. 
  • Infected gums. 
  • Cysts or forms of tumors. 

Dentists also use X-rays to determine your eligibility for treatments such as dental implants, braces, or dentures. X-rays can also assist your dentist in monitoring recovery following some operations, such as dental bone grafts and root canal therapy. 

What are the types of X-rays? 

There are several types of dental X-rays used for different purposes. The most prevalent are intraoral X-rays, which include: 

Bitewing: Biting down on a specific piece of paper allows your dentist to examine how well the crowns of your teeth meet up. This is frequently used to detect cavities between teeth (interdental). 

Occlusal: This X-ray is taken with your jaw closed to determine how your top and lower teeth line up. It can also detect anatomical anomalies in the mouth floor or palate.  

Panoramic: The machine rotates around the head. The dentist may use this method to examine your wisdom teeth, arrange for implanted dental equipment, or evaluate jaw disorders. 

Periapical: This method concentrates on two teeth from root to crown. 

Extraoral X-ray: It is used when there might be abnormalities in places other than the gums and teeth, such as the jaw. 

Now, you might be thinking, 

Are X-rays dangerous? 

The truth is dental X-rays are perfectly safe when performed properly. The amount of radiation you’re exposed to during a dental X-ray is very low, and the dentist will take precautions to ensure you’re protected. For example, you’ll wear a lead apron to shield the rest of your body from the X-rays. 

So, how do dental X-rays work?  

The procedure is pretty simple. You’ll sit in the dentist’s chair, and a dental assistant will place a small, flat sensor in your mouth. The sensor is connected to a computer to capture the X-ray images. Then, the dentist takes a few different angles of X-rays to get a complete picture of your mouth. 

Depending on what was found, the dentist may recommend further treatment, such as fillings, root canals, or extractions. 

Getting routine dental X-rays is essential to maintaining oral health, like brushing and flossing. X-rays may be conducted every 1 to 2 years, depending on age, and health. So, the next time you’re in the dentist’s chair, don’t be afraid of those X-rays – they’re there to help, and so are our experts at Bravo! Dental.

Dental Fluorosis: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment & Preventive Tips


Dental fluorosis is a condition that affects the teeth and is caused by excessive fluoride intake during the tooth development stage. Although fluoride is essential for dental health, too much of it can lead to cosmetic and sometimes functional problems with the teeth. 
 

Symptoms of Dental Fluorosis: 

Dental fluorosis is primarily a cosmetic issue and is characterized by the following symptoms: 

  1. White Spots on Teeth – The earliest signs of dental fluorosis are the appearance of white spots on the teeth. These spots are typically found on the front teeth and can be barely noticeable. 
  2.  Yellow/Brown Stains – In severe cases of fluorosis, the teeth can have yellow or brown stains.
  3. Pitted or Grooved Enamel – Excessive fluoride can cause the enamel on the teeth to become pitted or grooved. 
  4. Poorly Developed Enamel – The enamel on the teeth may be poorly developed and more susceptible to decay. 
      

Causes of Dental Fluorosis: 

Dental fluorosis is caused by overexposure to fluoride during tooth development, typically before the age of 8. The most common causes of dental fluorosis could include fluoridated water, toothpaste, and supplements. 

Treatments for Dental Fluorosis: 

  • Microabrasion – This is a process where a dental professional uses a fine pumice-based abrasive material to remove the outermost layer of enamel. This can help to remove mild to moderate stains caused by dental fluorosis. 
  • Teeth Whitening – Professional teeth whitening treatments can help to lighten the appearance of stains caused by dental fluorosis. 
  • Dental Bonding – Dental bonding may be required for more severe cases of dental fluorosis. This involves applying a tooth-colored resin to the affected teeth to improve appearance. 
  • Crowns or Veneers – In some cases, the affected teeth may be covered with crowns or veneers to improve appearance and function. 

Prevention of Dental Fluorosis: 

The best way to prevent dental fluorosis is to limit the amount of fluoride children are exposed to. Some tips to help prevent dental fluorosis include: 

  • Use Fluoridated Water Sparingly – If your water supply is fluoridated, ensure that children do not drink excessive amounts of water daily. 
  • Monitor Toothpaste Use – Children should be taught to spit out toothpaste after brushing and not swallow it. 
  • Avoid Fluoride Supplements – Unless prescribed by a dentist, children should not be given fluoride supplements. 
  • Seek Professional Advice – If you are concerned about your child’s fluoride intake or notice any signs of dental fluorosis, speak to a dental professional for advice. 

In short, dental fluorosis is a cosmetic condition that should not be neglected and can affect your children’s dental development. While the condition is not harmful to health, it can adversely affect the appearance of your child’s teeth. The treatment options for dental fluorosis vary depending on the severity of the condition, and the best way to prevent it is to take regular dental check-ups. And the best place to take care of your child’s teeth is to schedule regular appointments at Bravo! Dental. By following these tips, you can help ensure your child’s teeth develop healthily and beautifully.

Everything you need to know about Dry Socket


You might have pulled a tooth recently and thought that’s it. Your gums would heal on its own. However, if you put off routine dental care simply because everything seems good, you risk experiencing severe pain that may even deteriorate over a few days and result in a dry socket or alveolar osteitis. 

What is a dry socket? 

A blood clot usually forms after a tooth is extracted from the bone and gums to shield the wound in your gums while it heals. Dry socket might develop if the blood clot does not form properly. Therefore, it’s critical to seek dental care if you have a dry socket since it might expose the nerves and bone in your gums. 

Who is most likely to get a dry socket? 

After tooth extraction, some people might be susceptible to developing a dry socket. There are also other reasons one can get dry socket and they are those who: 

  • Smoke  
  • Have removed their wisdom teeth. 
  • Experienced severe trauma during the extraction procedure. 
  • Take contraceptive tablets. 
  • Possess a history of dental issues.  
  • Have already experienced a dry socket after an extraction. 

What are the symptoms of dry socket? 

Dry socket symptoms and signs might include: 

  • Continued intense agony. 
  • An empty-looking (dry) socket at the site of the tooth extraction. 
  • Bone visibility. 
  • Pain that extends to your ear, eye, temple, or neck. 
  • A bad breath or taste.

What are the treatments for dry socket? 

The treatment of dry sockets typically involves managing the pain and promoting healing of the affected area. The dentist will first clean the tooth socket, clearing it of debris, then fill it with a medicated dressing or healing paste. Once the socket starts to heal and your pain subsides, you’ll likely need to return to the dentist’s office every few days for a dressing change. 

The dentist may prescribe antibiotics to stop the socket from becoming infected. It is advisable to daily rinse your mouth with salt water or a specific mouthwash to treat it at home. Additionally, it is important to practice good oral hygiene, avoid smoking or using tobacco products, and avoid consuming hot or spicy foods or drinks.

What preventive measures should we take? 

The best way to prevent dry sockets is to follow the dentist’s instructions for aftercare following a tooth extraction. This may include avoiding drinking through a straw, avoiding smoking or using tobacco products, and following a soft food diet for several days after the extraction. Good oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing regularly, can also help prevent dry sockets. 

Conclusion 

In conclusion, a dry socket is a painful dental condition that can occur following a tooth extraction. While the exact cause is unknown, several factors may contribute to its development as previously mentioned. If you experience any of the symptoms given above, seek your dentist immediately to manage the pain and promote healing. Our experts at Bravo! Dental are always here to help you.

Dental Extraction: Types, Risks and Recovery


Dental extraction, commonly referred to as tooth extraction or tooth pulling, is the removal of a tooth from its socket in the bone. Your dentist will recommend a tooth extraction for the following reasons:  
 

  • Extremely decayed or shattered tooth beyond repair.  
  • Implant, denture, brace, and other orthodontic treatments preparation.  
  • Infected tooth.  
  • Gum diseases.  
  • Baby tooth that did not fall out in time.  
  • Patients undergoing chemotherapy.  
  • Preparing to undergo an organ transplant.  

A tooth extraction can be nerve-wracking but understanding what to expect from a dental extraction will help you overcome your fears. Keep reading to find out what it is. 

Types:   

There are 2 main types of extraction: simple and surgical. The type you receive will be determined on the nature of your dental problem.   

Simple Extraction: A simple extraction is when a tooth that is visible in your mouth is extracted. The dentist will desensitize the tooth and gum tissue to loosen the tooth using an elevator and forceps. It can be extracted out in one piece by a dentist.   

Surgical Extraction: This is a more complex procedure for patients who have a broken tooth or one that has not yet erupted at the gum line, or an impacted tooth. Depending on the severity of your condition, the dentist will decide if a local, intravenous, or general anesthetic is required. During the procedure, a small incision on your gum will be created to access and loosen your tooth. If the damaged tooth is too large, it will be broken into tiny pieces to make removal easier. There are few other major dental conditions that could also require surgical treatments such as removing the whole root if needed. 

Risks:   

Fortunately, there aren’t many. Yet, because this is surgery, there is always the possibility that something can go wrong. Nonetheless, if the dentist suggests extractions, it signifies that the benefits outweigh the minor risks.   

 Few of its risks are:   

  • Dry socket caused by blood clot.   
  • Bleeding that continues for more than 12 hours.   
  • Fever and chills indicating illness.   
  • Nausea or vomiting.   
  • Cough.   
  • Shortness of breath and chest pain.   
  • Swelling and redness in the surgical area.   

If you experience any of these symptoms, contact the dentist right away.   

Recovery:  

The time it takes to recover from a tooth extraction procedure varies from case to case; it is primarily determined by the severity of the case as well as the patient’s tolerance. Some people recover in a matter of days, while others require longer time. Keep the extraction site clean, take soft foods, drink plenty of water, and avoid intense or exhausting activities during the first few days. To reduce swelling on the cheek, apply an ice pack. It would be best to not smoke or rinse your mouth vigorously for 24 hours following your extraction.   

You should be able to function normally again in 2 to 3 days, although the jawbone may take several weeks to fully recover. After that, the gap will be filled with new bone and gum tissue. However, missing a tooth might cause the remaining teeth to move, altering your bite and making chewing difficult. That’s why it is advisable to take regular dental check-ups before another complication arises.   

To know more about extractions and treatment offers, talk to our experts at Bravo! Dental.