Tooth extraction is the removal of tooth from the alveolar (bone) socket. It is one of the most routine dental procedure but also one of the most terrifying procedures for patients. We at The Dental Specialists have well trained Oral surgeons who perform these extractions and make it a painless process.

When Do You Need Tooth Extraction

• If the tooth infection is so severe that antibiotics and RCT do not cure it, extraction may be needed to prevent the spread of infection.
• Advanced periodontal disease in a tooth leading to tooth mobility.
• A tooth after endodontic treatment which still has pain has to be extracted.
• Extraction of teeth that are done as a part of orthodontic or prosthodontic procedures are called therapeutic extractions.
• Patients with cancer undergoing radiation therapy have to get potentially problematic teeth extracted before radiation therapy. This is done so as to reduce chances of osteo necrosis.
• Retained Tooth Roots.

Tooth Extraction Procedure

• Injection of a local anesthetic to numb the area where the tooth will be removed.
• Extraction of Tooth with forceps and elevators.
• Placement of cotton or gauze in the extraction site to promote clot formation and healing.

The Procedure is as simple as that!!

Pre Extraction Instructions

• Tell us if you have any have a condition that puts you at high risk for developing a severe infection such as-
  • Damaged or Prosthetic heart valve
  • Congenital heart defect or impaired immune system
  • Liver disease (Cirrhosis, Fatty Liver)
  • If you have undergone artificial joint replacement, such as a hip replacement
  • History of bacterial Endocarditis.
• Have food at least an hour before the procedure.
• Bring someone along for the procedure.

Post Extraction Instructions

For the First 24 Hours After Tooth Extraction

• Control bleeding with gauze or cotton by biting firmly on the gauze or cotton for 45-60 minutes. Make sure the gauze or cotton is tight enough and large enough that when you bite down on it, it’s able to apply pressure directly on the extraction site.
• If bleeding seems to persist then a moist tea bag can be used as a superior alternative to gauze.
• After extraction the area around extraction site will be numb for few hours after extraction. During this period try not biting or chewing on the extraction site. This is to prevent inadvertent injury to the tongue or cheek.
• Avoid vigorous rinsing and spitting so as to prevent the dislodging of the primary blood clot.
• Swelling is a normal occurrence after surgery and will not reach its maximum until 2-3 days after surgery. It can be minimized by using a cold pack or ice bag and applied firmly to the cheek adjacent to the surgical area. This should be applied twenty minutes on and off during the first 24 hours after surgery. If you have been prescribed medicine for the control of swelling, be sure to take it as directed.
• Pain- Unfortunately most oral surgery is accompanied by some degree of discomfort. You will usually have a prescription for pain medication. If you take the first pill before the anesthetic has worn off, you should be able to manage any discomfort better.
• Remember that the most severe pain is usually within six hours after the local anesthetic wears off; after that your need for medicine should lessen. If you find you are taking large amounts of pain medicine at frequent intervals, please call our office
• Oral Hygiene: It is important to keep the mouth clean. You should brush your teeth the night of surgery, but be gentle around the surgical sites. If there is minimal bleeding, saltwater rinses may begin 24 hours after surgery. Swish gently and allow the water to drip into the sink. Rinse your mouth 2-3 times a day, especially after eating.
• Avoid strenuous work or exercise after extraction. You should also avoid bending over or lifting heavy objects. In general, it’s not a bad idea to just take it easy for the rest of the day following your surgery.
• Stay away from hot liquids (such as tea and coffee) as they tend to dissolve the clot.
• Avoid Smoking, using a straw and blowing your nose. These tend to create a pressure difference which may dislodge the blood clot

For the Second and Third Day After Extraction

• Healing – Normal healing after tooth extraction should be as follows: The first two days after surgery are generally the most uncomfortable and there is usually some swelling. On the third day you should be more comfortable and, although still swollen, one can usually begin with a more substantial diet. The remainder of the post-operative course should be a gradual and steady improvement.
• Discoloration or bruising – The development of black, blue, green or yellow discoloration is due to bruising beneath the tissues. This is a normal post-operative occurrence that might appear 2-3 days after surgery. Beginning 36 hours after the surgery, moist heat applied to the area may speed up resolution of the discoloration.
• Sharp Edges – If you feel something hard or sharp edges in the surgical areas, it is likely you are feeling the bony walls which once supported the extracted teeth. Occasionally small slivers of bone may work themselves out during the following week or so. If they cause any discomfort, please call the office.
• Sore Throat: This is not uncommon after oral surgery. The muscles get swollen and this may make swallowing painful. This should go away on its own in 2-3 days.
• Stiff Jaw Muscles: This may cause a limitation in opening the mouth wide for a few days after surgery. This is a normal post-operative event that usually resolves during the week after surgery. Stretching these muscles may help to speed up resolution of this problem.