When it comes to the prevention of a decayed or cracked tooth from causing more oral health issues, extraction might be the final step necessary. However, in cases involving an impacted wisdom tooth or crowding, it might be required to avoid future problems. All in all, tooth extraction is nothing to fear when done by an experienced dentist.
The following is how it often works:
- An x-ray exam is done so that your dentist can determine the tooth’s exact position, as well as any potential issues.
- Evaluation of your medical and drug history is next, giving your dentist an opportunity to review your overall health and figure out your options for anesthesia. You may only need local anesthesia for a simple tooth extraction, not sedation unless the procedure is complex.
- After applying anesthesia, the tooth is removed.
- Afterward, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics or over-the-counter pain medications for a few days or so.
Many people believe that teeth are set into the bone, making extraction appear painful in nature. However, that is further from the truth! The truth is your our teeth are connected to a set of fibers known as the periodontal ligament, which can be carefully manipulated to dislodge a tooth with ease.
While it is normal to experience bleeding, swelling, bruising, and discomfort after surgery, most patients recover quickly. Nevertheless, knowing exactly how to take care of each of these side effects will help expedite the healing process.
In order to prevent possible problems after wisdom teeth extraction, here are important post-surgery healing instructions:
- Bleeding – Cover the extraction area with a gauze for at least half an hour after surgery. If you are experiencing heavy bleeding, either clamp down the gauze pad with your teeth or hold it down using your fingers for 30 minutes before removal.
- Swelling – Place an ice pack outside of your mouth for 20 minutes, then leave it off for half an hour. Continue doing so for two days to reduce swelling, bruising, and any sort of discomfort. However, if your tooth was infected before the extraction, your dentist may ask you to use warm and moist compresses instead of ice.
- Diet – In two hours post-surgery, you must limit eating, drinking and talking. Instead, simply rest for the day. If you want to drink, a straw helps to avoid dislodging the blood clot. Avoid any vigorous rinsing.
- Mouth care – 12 hours after the surgery, you can use diluted mouthwash (water and mouthwash) or a saltwater rinse to lightly rinse. Brush your teeth carefully later that night, but avoid the extraction area as much as possible.
- Medications – Your dentist may prescribe you with medication and/or antibiotics. Do not consume alcohol while medicating.
If you are interested in requesting an appointment from our Austell dentist for tooth extraction, contact Austell Dental Associates today.