Your dentist may find that you need a tooth extraction for a number of reasons. Some teeth are extracted because they have severe decay, others may have advanced periodontal disease or may have broken in a way that cannot be repaired. Other teeth may need to be removed because they are misplaced in the mouth (such as clenched teeth) or in preparation for orthodontic treatment.
Removing a single tooth can lead to issues related to chewing ability, jaw articulation and tooth shifting, which can have a significant impact on your dental health. To avoid these complications, your dentist will suggest alternatives to extractions, as well as options for replacing the extracted tooth.
WHAT TO EXPECT
At the time of extraction the doctor will numb the tooth, the jawbone and the gums surrounding the area with a local anaesthetic.
During the extraction process you will feel a lot of pressure. This is from the process of steadily swinging the tooth to widen the socket for removal.
You feel the pressure without pain as the anaesthetic has numbed the nerves, stopping the pain transfer, however the nerves that transmit the pressure are not deeply affected.
If you feel pain at any time during the export, let us know immediately!
POST-OPERATIVE INSTRUCTIONS
After tooth extraction, it is important that a blood clot is formed to stop the bleeding and start the healing process. Bite into a gauze patch for 30 to 45 minutes immediately after the appointment. If bleeding or bleeding persists, place another gauze and bite firmly for another 30 minutes. You may need to do this several times to stop the blood flow.
Once the blood clot has formed, it is important that the clot is not disturbed or broken off. Do not rinse vigorously, suck on straws, smoke, drink alcohol or chew food next to the extraction site for 72 hours. These activities can dislodge or dissolve the clot and hinder the healing process. Limit strenuous exercise for the next 24 hours, as this increases blood pressure and can cause more bleeding from the extraction site.
AFTER YOUR APPOINTMENT
After the tooth extraction you may feel some pain and experience some swelling. An ice pack or a closed bag of frozen peas or corn applied to the area will keep swelling to a minimum. Take the painkillers as directed. The swelling usually resolves after 48 hours.
Use painkillers as directed.
Call our office if the medicine does not seem to work. If antibiotics are prescribed, continue to take them for the indicated time, even if the signs and symptoms of the infection have disappeared.
Drink plenty of fluids and eat nutritious, soft foods on the day of extraction. You can eat normally as soon as you feel comfortable. It is important to continue your normal dental routine, including brushing and flossing. This will speed up healing and help keep your mouth fresh and clean.
After a few days you should feel well and be able to resume your normal activities. If you have severe bleeding, severe pain, constant swelling for two to three days, or a reaction to the medication, call your dentist’s office immediately.