Tooth Extractions
 A tooth extraction is the procedure done to remove a tooth from its socket in the jawbone that is damaged beyond repair.
Our office is very selective of what extractions we do. If the doctor feels like a tooth is something that he cannot remove we will refer you to the oral surgeon.
A tooth may have to be extracted for a number of reasons:
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Severely decayed
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Periodontally diseased ("gum and bone disease")
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Fractured in such a way that it is impossible or impractical to repair
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Badly positioned (impacted wisdom teeth)
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Non-functional or poorly functional teeth |
Extractions are generally classified as either non-surgical (also known as "simple") or surgical (involving cutting procedures). A simple procedure can quickly become a surgical procedure if the tooth fractures or refuses to loosen under pressure. We perform these procedures only after making the extraction site(s) profoundly numb.
Tooth Extraction Post-Operative Instructions
Following tooth extraction you may experience bleeding, oozing, soreness, or moderate to severe pain.
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Bleeding should stop by 8-12 hours following the extraction. If you experience significant bleeding past this time please call our office immediately. Oozing of pink fluid for 1-2 days is normal.
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Pain following the tooth extraction is best managed with a mild analgesic like Tylenol, Advil, or Aleve. If you experience severe pain that lasts more than 2-3 days after your extraction please call our office.
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Healing should be as smooth as possible following tooth extraction. It is important to disturb the extraction site as little as possible. Remember to eat a soft diet for 24 hours following the extraction. Avoid vigorously rinsing with any type of liquid for the first 24 hours.
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After 24 hours, rinse with strong warm salt water for 1 minute a couple of times daily for 3-4 days. This will reduce the number of bacteria in your mouth and will promote better healing. |
If you have any further questions please feel free to call us. |
