What is a tooth extraction?
A tooth extraction is a dental procedure during which your tooth is completely removed from its socket. Sometimes, people refer to this as “pulling” a tooth.
When is tooth extraction recommended?
Dentists try their best to save your natural teeth, but sometimes other restorative methods like fillings and crowns are not enough. If your tooth is too damaged to be repaired, your dentist may recommend extraction.
- Severe tooth decay (cavities).
- A fractured tooth.
- An impacted tooth.
- Crowded teeth.
- Severe gum disease.
- Tooth luxation or other dental injuries.
Who performs tooth extraction?
Dentists and some dental specialists — such as oral surgeons and periodontists — can perform tooth extractions. While general dentists perform plenty of extractions, more complex cases are usually referred out to oral surgeons or periodontists.
What should I do immediately after my tooth extraction?
- Bite down gently on the gauze that was placed over your extraction site for 30-60 minutes. This helps to stop the bleeding and form a blood clot.
- If bleeding continues after one hour, place fresh sterile gauze over the site and reapply pressure for another 30 minutes.
- Be careful not to rinse vigorously for at least the first 24 hours after extraction, as this may prolong bleeding. Be sure to drink lots of water, but don’t use a straw for at least 48 hours after the procedure, as it could dislodge the blood clot that forms during the healing process.
- Also, don’t smoke for at least a week, as this too can dislodge the blood clot and hinder healing.
- If you are given medication by your dentist, be sure to take it as prescribed.
What should I eat and drink after my tooth extraction?
To help your tooth extraction site heal quickly and easily, eat soft foods that are easy to chew and swallow for the first few days. Avoid hard, crunchy, and chewy foods, as well as hot, carbonated, or alcoholic beverages, as these can irritate the extraction site and slow down healing.
How should I care for my teeth after my tooth extraction?
After your tooth extraction, it is important to brush and floss your teeth regularly, but be sure to avoid the extraction site. To keep the extraction site clean and free of infection, gently rinse with warm salt water three times a day.
What are the signs and symptoms of infection after a tooth extraction?
If you experience any of the following signs and symptoms after your tooth extraction, you may have an infection:
- Fever
- Redness and swelling around the extraction site
- Bad taste or odor in your mouth
- Pain that gets worse over time
If you experience any of these signs or symptoms, please contact your dentist immediately.
When can I go back to my normal routine after my tooth extraction?
You should be able to return to your normal routine within a few days after your tooth extraction. However, you should avoid strenuous activity for at least a few days. If you have any questions or concerns about when it is safe to resume your normal activities, please talk to your dentist.
Other tips for a speedy recovery
- Get plenty of rest.
- Eat a healthy diet.
- Stay hydrated.
- Avoid smoking and alcohol.
If you have any questions or concerns about your tooth extraction aftercare, please do not hesitate to contact our Sbenati Dentistry team. Schedule a consultation and let us help you with any of your dental needs! https://calendly.com/sbenatidentistry/interview
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