Tooth Extraction at Star Dental Care
Sometimes when a tooth is extremely decayed, or if you are experiencing a toothache, then your dentist may recommend a tooth extraction. Tooth extractions, while they sound scary, can be done with anaesthetics that can make the procedure more comfortable. To avoid needing a tooth extraction, see your dentist often for a regular checkup and cleaning.
Why is a Tooth Extraction Necessary?
When a tooth reaches the point when it cannot be saved, or becomes hazardous to surrounding teeth, then a tooth extraction may become necessary. Decayed or abscessed teeth often need to be pulled out so that they do not infect other areas of the mouth by spreading infection or bone loss associated with gum disease.
Tooth Extraction After-care
Although getting your tooth pulled sounds like a big procedure, recovery time is generally only a few days. Your doctor will generally prescribe painkillers for the discomfort, and with proper care and sufficient hygiene, your mouth will heal and be back to normal quickly.
Here are several things that will help you recover after pulling a tooth:
To relieve pain and reduce swelling, apply an ice pack to the outside of your mouth where the tooth was removed.
To relieve pain and reduce swelling, 24 hours after your surgery, start rinsing your mouth out with salt water several times a day.
Avoid smoking.
Avoid rubbing the area where your tooth was removed with your tongue.
Stay away from hard foods that will cause discomfort when eating. Soft foods like soup or pudding will not cause any pain.
When you lie down, keep your head propped up to avoid prolonged bleeding.
After your surgery, when you leave the dentist you will be given gauze to cover the site of the extraction. You must change your gauze swabs, as they become saturated with blood, or dry out. Keeping your gauss clean and changing them is very important to ensure that your mouth heals properly and without infections. If you experience any nausea, intense bleeding, or vomiting you should contact your dentist immediately.
As normal, you should continue your routine of brushing daily and flossing, however, you should avoid the site of the extraction.
Still have questions? We are always here to answer any questions or concerns you may have. Call our office at 65836111 to speak with one of our dental professionals.