Extractions

Tooth extraction is the process of getting your tooth pulled out for some specific reason. The reason for tooth removal might be misaligned, impacted, broken, cracked, or extensively decayed teeth. The teeth that are associated with advanced periodontal disease or that cannot undergo root canal treatment also needs to be extracted.

What is the procedure of tooth extraction?

A tooth extraction procedure may be a simple extraction or a surgical extraction depending on the condition of the tooth. Teeth that may be decaying or placed at a more visible portion of your mouth could be removed with the help of a simple extraction procedure. Teeth that are impacted or broken inside the socket may require surgical extraction. In both cases, the dentist would administer local anesthesia before starting the procedure. For simple extractions, the dentist would use an instrument known as an elevator to smoothly loosen the tooth and have it removed with the help of forceps. For surgical extractions, the patient would either be administered with a local/intravenous anesthesia (based on patient preference). The procedure would involve creating a small incision in the gums and gently removing the broken tooth.

What are the things to be kept in mind after tooth extraction?

Soon after an extraction, you are sent home to recover in a few days. The following steps should be kept in mind to minimize discomfort, reducing infection, and to have a speedy recovery.

• The dentist might prescribe some painkillers that you need to consume.
• Do not bite on the gauze pad too hard that is placed by your dentist, to reduce bleeding. The pad also lets a clot to form in the tooth socket. You need to change gauze pads before they get soaked in blood. 
• After the procedure, apply an ice bag to the extracted area immediately to curb swelling. 
• Keep yourself away from your daily activities for at least 24 hours after the extraction. Just keep them limited for a day or two.
• Avoid dislodging the clot that develops in the socket by avoiding rinsing or spitting forcefully for almost a day.
• The very next day after the procedure, rinse your mouth with a solution made of half teaspoon salt and 8 ounces of warm water.
• Don’t drink from a straw for a while.
• Smoking can slow down the healing process. So, don’t smoke until it heals. 
• Prefer eating soft foods, like soups, pudding, yogurt, or applesauce after the procedure. Just add solid foods gradually to your diet.
• Lift your head with pillows while lying down as lying flat cause prolonged bleeding.
• Brushing and flossing your teeth should be done correctly, but also avoid the affected area. 

Find out more about tooth extraction as you visit our offices in Richmond and Henrico in Virginia. Call Fred A. Knaysi, D.D.S. today or request an appointment online.