If your teeth are damaged, decayed, not properly aligned, or cannot pass through the gums, you will need to have them extracted.  Tooth extractions may also be recommended due to:

• Severe pain caused by an impacted (jammed, wedged or crushed) tooth
• Infected teeth or gums (tooth decay)
• Risk of infection (surrounding a tooth or people with high-risk health issues such as cancer)
• Periodontal (Gum) disease
• Overcrowding of teeth (teeth are too big for the mouth)

Tooth Extractions: What to Expect

Generally, tooth extraction procedures do not take long. The dentist will use a general anesthetic to numb the area where the tooth will be removed. If you have an impacted tooth, the gum and bone tissue that covers the tooth will need to be cut. Forceps may be used to loosen the tooth for an extraction. A blood clot forms in the socket where the tooth has been pulled. The bleeding socket is padded with gauze, and you must bite down on it to stop the bleeding. Depending on the size of the wound, you may need stitches to the socket to close the gum edges over the extraction site.

Make sure you inform your dentist of your medical history and prescribed medications and/or supplements before undergoing the procedure. Having ongoing health issues can lead to further health risks. Health issues that may put you further risk include:

• Heart disease
• Liver disease
• Impaired immune system
• HIV or AIDS
• Artificial Joints

Tooth Extraction Aftercare

You will experience some discomfort after the extraction, and it will take a few days for you to recover. Your dentist will provide you with aftercare instructions and prescribe painkillers to minimize your pain. Your rate of recovery depends on you following these tips:

• Avoid rinsing or spitting for 24 hours after the extraction
• After 24 hours, rinse your mouth with salt and warm water solution
• Change gauze pads before they become soaked with blood
• Do not drink from a straw for 24 hours
• Do not smoke
• Eat soft foods only
• Apply ice to the affected area to help keep down the swelling.
• Brush and floss your teeth but be sure to avoid the extraction area

Schedule An Appointment

Creekside Dentistry is committed to helping patients achieve and maintain good oral hygiene and health. Don’t wait until you are in severe pain to schedule a visit. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.