Although it is best to preserve the natural structures of the teeth, sometimes, extracting them is necessary. Tooth extraction is among the most common dental procedures done to both kids and adults. This procedure involves the complete removal of a tooth out of the mouth. There are several reasons why a tooth must be removed. Reasons may include crowded mouth, severely infected or damaged teeth, risk of infection, gum disease, and severe dental trauma.
What is the procedure for a tooth extraction?
The tooth extraction procedure can either be simple or surgical, depending on the condition of the tooth, whether it is visible or impacted.
During a simple extraction, the dentist will offer patients with sedation options necessary for their needs, such as oral conscious sedation and laughing gas. Once the sedation has been administered and has taken effect, the patient will feel calm and relaxed throughout the procedure. Dentists typically use an instrument called an elevator to loosen the tooth and forceps to remove it.
Patients that need to undergo surgical extraction will also be offered with sedation options prior to the procedure for them to have a comfortable and relaxing oral surgery experience. Then, the dentist will make a small incision on the gums. They may also need to remove some bone around the tooth or cut the tooth before it can be pulled out.
Aftercare
Proper aftercare following an extraction is essential to recover faster. Usually, recovery takes only a few days after the tooth removal. We at Cypress Springs Family Dentistry have prepared the following tips to help minimize discomfort, reduce the risk of infection, and speed up recovery.
- Take the prescribed painkillers.
- After the tooth has been pulled out, the dentist will place a gauze pad on the affected area to reduce the bleeding and to allow the clot to form. Bite the gauze pad firmly but gently. Change them before they become soaked with blood. Otherwise, leave them in place for three to four hours after an extraction.
- Relax for at least 24 hours following the extraction and limit the activities for the next day or two.
- Avoid rinsing or spitting forcefully for a day following an extraction to avoid dislodging the clot that forms in the socket.
- Apply a cold compress to the affected area after the procedure to minimize swelling. Do this for 10 minutes at a time.
- For the first 24 hours following an extraction, do not drink from a straw because it can dislodge the clot that forms.
- After a day, rinse the mouth with warm salt water.
- It is recommended to eat soft foods the day after the extraction. Then, gradually add solid foods to your diet as the extraction site heals.
- Continue to brush and floss the teeth but avoid the extraction site as it can cause infection.
- Upon sleeping or lying down, elevate the head with pillows in order to avoid prolonged bleeding.
Looking for a safe and pain-free procedure? Here at Cypress Springs Family Dentistry, we have a caring and dedicated staff to help you feel pleasant during your Teeth Extractions in Cypress, TX. Book your appointment with us now!