Emergency Tooth Extraction Dental emergencies can occur unexpectedly, causing severe pain and requiring immediate attention. When preservation of a natural tooth isn't possible, an emergency tooth extraction may be necessary to protect your overall oral health. At our dental practice in Scarborough, ME, we provide compassionate and efficient emergency tooth extraction services to relieve your pain and prevent further complications. Our oral surgeons and dental professionals are experienced in handling all types of emergency extractions, including wisdom tooth extractions.What is Emergency Tooth Extraction?Emergency tooth extraction is a dental procedure performed urgently to remove a severely damaged, infected, or problematic tooth that cannot be saved through other treatments. Unlike planned extractions, emergency procedures are typically performed within 24-48 hours of contacting the dentist, often to alleviate extreme pain, stop the spread of infection, or address trauma. Emergency extractions may either be a simple extraction or a surgical extractions. Simple extractions are performed on teeth that are visible in the mouth and can be removed using specialized dental instruments. These extractions are typically straightforward and require only local anesthesia. Surgical extractions are required for teeth that are not easily accessible, such as impacted wisdom teeth or teeth broken beneath the gumline. These procedures often involve making a small incision in the gum tissue and may require sedation options in addition to local anesthesia. Common Reasons for Emergency Tooth ExtractionSeveral situations may necessitate an emergency tooth extraction in Scarborough, ME: Severe Tooth Decay or DamageWhen tooth decay reaches the pulp (the center of the tooth containing nerves and blood vessels), it can cause severe infection and pain. If the damage is too extensive for treatments like fillings or root canals, extraction becomes the only viable option to prevent the spread of infection to surrounding teeth and tissues. Impacted Wisdom TeethWisdom teeth (third molars) often become impacted when there isn't enough space in the jaw for them to emerge properly. This can lead to intense pain, swelling, and potential damage to adjacent teeth. Emergency wisdom tooth extraction in Scarborough, ME may be necessary when an impacted tooth becomes infected or causes significant discomfort. Advanced Periodontal DiseaseProgressive gum disease can destroy the supporting structures of teeth, including bone and connective tissues. When teeth become severely loose due to periodontal disease, extraction may be recommended to prevent further bone loss and prepare for restorative options. Dental TraumaAccidents and injuries can result in teeth that are fractured beyond repair, especially when the break extends below the gumline. In these cases, emergency extraction followed by replacement options becomes the most effective treatment approach. Severe InfectionDental abscesses and other serious infections may require immediate extraction if antibiotics and root canal therapy cannot resolve the issue. This helps prevent the infection from spreading to vital areas like the bloodstream or brain. Signs You Need an Emergency Tooth ExtractionRecognizing the signs that you might need an emergency tooth extraction can help you seek timely care from an oral surgeon in Scarborough, ME. Contact your dentist immediately if you experience:
How to Prepare for an Emergency Tooth ExtractionWhile emergency extractions happen quickly by nature, there are steps you can take to ensure the procedure goes as smoothly as possible. Contact your oral surgeon in Scarborough, ME immediately. Describe your symptoms in detail so the office can prepare appropriately for your arrival. Provide a complete medical history - be prepared to share information about any existing health conditions, medications, supplements, and allergies. If sedation will be used during your extraction, you'll need someone to drive you home afterward. Your dentist may recommend fasting for several hours before the procedure if sedation will be used, or taking antibiotics if infection is present. Stock up on soft foods, pain medications (as recommended by your dentist), and ice packs for the recovery period. Don't hesitate to ask questions about the procedure, anticipated pain levels, or recovery expectations. For wisdom tooth extraction in Scarborough, ME, additional preparation may be necessary depending on the complexity of your case. What to Expect During an Emergency Tooth Extraction ProcedureFor your comfort, appropriate anesthesia will be administered. Local anesthesia numbs the immediate area around the tooth. Sedation options may be offered for more complex extractions or patients with dental anxiety. General anesthesia might be used in rare, extremely complex cases. During a simple extraction, your dentist will:
For surgical extractions often performed by an oral surgeon in Scarborough, ME, the process includes:
Immediate AftercareBefore leaving the office, you'll receive:
Most emergency tooth extractions, including wisdom tooth extractions in Scarborough, ME, take between 20-60 minutes depending on complexity, with simple extractions on the shorter end of that range. Recovery from an emergency tooth extraction typically begins with 24-48 hours of significant rest, followed by a gradual return to normal activities over the next few days. Complete healing of the extraction site may take several weeks, during which time your dentist will monitor your progress and discuss potential tooth replacement options if appropriate. When faced with severe dental pain or trauma, knowing where to turn for emergency tooth extraction in Scarborough, ME, (207) 945-7840, can provide peace of mind. Our experienced team at Coastal Maine Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery is committed to providing prompt, compassionate care to resolve your dental emergency and set you on the path to recovery. |
