Eights extraction — when is it advisable?

How is the procedure for removing the occiput?

1. Consultation and planning
   Before the procedure, the dentist or maxillofacial surgeon carefully assesses the patient's situation, often ordering X-rays.
2. Anesthesia
   Depending on the degree of complication and the patient's preferences, local, intravenous or general anesthesia is used.
3. Access to the tooth
   If the tooth is partially or completely hidden in the gum, an incision is made to expose the tooth and bone.
4. Bone removal
   In the case of teeth that are blocked by a bone, the surgeon removes a fragment of the bone to get into the octagon.
5. Tooth split
   Sometimes the tooth splits into smaller parts, which makes it easier to remove.
6. Tooth extraction
   The tooth is gently moved and removed using appropriate tools.
7. Cleaning and sewing
   After the tooth is removed, the surgeon cleans the wound and places sutures if necessary to aid healing.
8. Convalescence
   After the procedure, discomfort, swelling and bleeding are possible. The doctor will prescribe the appropriate medication and give tips on diet and oral hygiene.
9. Control visit
   After a few weeks, a check-up is carried out to assess the healing process.

How long does it take to remove the occiput?

The duration of the procedure depends on many factors: the position of the tooth, the degree of its immersion, the presence of complications or the number of removed eights. As a standard, the removal of one eighth takes from 20 to 45 minutes. If it is planned to remove all four eights in one visit, the procedure may take from 1 to 2 hours. This time should be added to the preparation for the procedure and the time to recover after the operation. The final time is best discussed with your doctor during the consultation.

Does the extraction of the figure eight hurt?

The procedure itself is carried out under anesthesia, so the patient does not feel pain. The type of anesthesia is selected individually. After the operation, discomfort, swelling and tenderness are possible, which are relieved by painkillers. Proper wound care, avoiding sucking, brushing your teeth carefully, and avoiding hard foods help minimize complaints. If the pain is severe or persists longer than expected, a doctor should be consulted.

Indications for the removal of the occiput

Not every eight needs to be removed. The decision depends on individual factors and should be made after consultation with a specialist. Typical indications for the extraction of eights are:

• Lack of space in the dental arch — leads to crowding or displacement of other teeth.
• Tooth submerged (retained) — cannot come out properly, causing pain and infections.
• Improper arrangement — eights growing at an angle can damage adjacent teeth and cause jaw pain.
• Infections and inflammations — recurrent infections in the occipital region.
• Caries — difficulties in maintaining hygiene favor caries.
• Diseases of the gums — congestion makes it difficult to clean, leading to inflammation.
• Preparing for orthodontic treatment — removal of the eights may be necessary before putting on the camera.
• Cysts and tumors — the presence of pathological changes around the occiput.
• Chronic pain When other treatments are ineffective.

Contraindications to the procedure

Not always removal of the eights is possible or advisable. Contraindications include:

• Correct tooth position and absence of symptoms It is not always necessary to remove a healthy eight.
• Serious systemic diseases — e.g. blood clotting disorders.
• Proximity to important nerve structures — risk of nerve damage.
• Advanced age of the patient In the elderly, the risk of complications may be higher.
• General health Chronic diseases may require additional evaluation.
• Bone condition — too dense or abnormal bone can make the procedure difficult.
• Radiation in the head and neck area — increases the risk of complications.

summary

The decision to remove eights should always be preceded by an individual assessment by an experienced dentist or maxillofacial surgeon. Indications such as crowding, infections or incorrect tooth position must be weighed against the potential risks and the patient's health condition. Understanding all aspects of the procedure and working closely with your doctor to make an informed oral health decision is key.