Edentulous means without teeth

Electronic apex locator may be used during root canal treatment to verify the length of the root of a tooth.

Elevators These are instruments which are especially useful when extracting badly broken down teeth and roots. The elevator prizes the root out of the socket as opposed to pulling it out as is the case with forceps.

Enamel The highly calcified covering over the outside of the tooth. It is the hardest substance in the human body, however, is susceptible to caries.                                       

Endodontics see Root Canal Treatment

Endo-perio lesions These are infections which involve both the pulp and the periodontal tissues of a tooth.

Erosion is the progressive loss of hard dental tissues by a chemical process not involving bacterial action. Common causes are acidic food/drink e.g. “fizzy” carbonated soft drinks, fruit juice, citrus fruits, yoghurt, wine, vinegar etc. If any teeth are affected it is important not to brush them after ingesting any acidic foods/drinks as this can scrub the acid into to them. see attrition and abrasion.

Eruption This is when the new deciduous or permanent tooth breaks through the gum surface. Deciduous teeth erupt from around seven and a half months (at the front of the mouth on the lower jaw) with the final back deciduous teeth erupting when the child is around two years old. The adult (permanent) teeth begin erupting at around 7 or 8 years old and with the second molars erupting at around 11-13. Wisdom teeth can erupt anytime, usually around 17-21.

Examination This is when the dentist will look at your teeth and gums. Often a probe is used to feel for any imperfections in the tooth surface and a three in one tip used to blow cold air onto the teeth. Radiographs may be taken at the examination visit. Your teeth and gums should be routinely examined every six mouths, with some exceptions when 3 months - 12 months may be more appropriate.

Extraction The removal of a painful or badly decayed tooth or root with forceps or elevators.

Extraction Instructions This is advice which will help you to keep your mouth clean and comfortable whilst healing takes place following an extraction:Advice after extractions

Now that the tooth has been removed, the healing process has already begun. You will help the healing process happen more quickly by following these instructions.

Take it easy for the rest of today and tomorrow. By resting, relaxing and keeping your pulse at a resting level, the socket will heal quickly and comfortably.

Use an extra pillow tonight. This will elevate your head slightly and again will help the socket to heal quickly and comfortably.

Take any “Pain Killers” as advised by the dentist. Follow the dosage instructions on the packet. By taking the first tablet before the numbness wears off, you will ensure maximum comfort.

It is important that you care for the healing socket. After six hours rinse gently with a warm salty solution ( level teaspoon of salt stirred into a cup of luke warm water) Gently rinse after every meal, first thing in the morning and last thing at night for seven days or as advised by your dentist.

By chewing on the other side of your mouth for a few days, and keeping your tongue away from the socket, the socket can be left undisturbed to heal quickly.

You may feel the ridge at the edge of the socket – this will soon feel more comfortable. Unless you have been told otherwise all the tooth has been removed. Sometimes people notice small fragments of the thin bone which was around the tooth before it was extracted. These work their way out on their own. This is part of the natural healing process.

If excessive bleeding occurs………………..

Stay calm, this is easily corrected. Use some clean linen or gauze about 4cm wide to make a roll of 2cm thick, thus forming a firm pad, or use a clean handkerchief. Make a few such pads if necessary.

Keep sitting up or stand and clear the mouth of loose blood clots with a clean linen square or tissue so that you can find where the socket is bleeding. Place the pad across the bleeding socket from the tongue to the cheek side. If the socket is between two standing teeth constrict the pad to fit. Bite firmly to compress the pad on the bleeding socket for 10-15minute. Remember – you should sit or stand. Inspect the socket and replace the pad, or use another one. You can stop using the pads when the bleeding stops.

(If your efforts are unsuccessful after an hour or two, contact your dentist or NHS24 for further advice.)

Remember…………..

Now that the tooth has been removed the healing process is underway. By following these instructions you may be surprised by how quickly and comfortably the area heals. Any sensations you have over the next few days will be healing sensations.