A tooth extraction might be recommended when a tooth has been damaged to a point it cannot be repaired with any of the treatments currently available, or if it becomes infected and threatens other parts of the body.
The thought of having to get a tooth extraction can be nerve-wracking for many people. In reality, tooth extractions are not as bad as they might seem. Despite the discomfort and bleeding, tooth extractions are actually pretty simple and straightforward. Local or general anesthetics are used during the process so the patient does not feel anything, thus eliminating the chance for pain.
The two types of extractions commonly performed are surgical and simple extractions. Simple extractions are a more straightforward approach. The technique is used when there is enough of the tooth visible to pull it out of the mouth. Surgical extractions are used when the dentist needs to make an incision to reach the tooth. It is often used when extracting teeth that are stuck in bone or gum tissues. A dentist might opt to break a tooth into smaller pieces during a surgical extraction if that makes it easier to pull out the tooth.
It can take up to two weeks to recover from a tooth extraction. The most crucial part of the healing process takes place during the first three days. Patients might experience pain and discomfort as the anesthetic used wears off after an extraction. The site of the extraction will likely bleed for a couple of hours until a blood clot stops the bleeding. Biting down on gauze helps to slow down the bleeding.
Dentists recommend only eating liquid and soft foods for the first week after a tooth extraction. Such foods are less likely to irritate the site. Avoid brushing or flossing the arear around the extraction for the first few days since that can lead to irritation as well. Rinsing the mouth with salt water after meals helps to keep it clean during this period.
Prescription or over-the-counter painkillers can be used to manage any pain and discomfort experienced after having a tooth pulled. Patients are free to return to their oral hygiene routine after the first three days have passed. They should avoid the site of the surgery while doing this to prevent dislodging the blood clot that forms in the socket. Using a straw or spitting can also lead to the clot coming off.
Keeping the mouth as clean as possible reduces the risk of infection as the tooth extraction site heals. Habits like smoking can reduce the immune system's ability to fight off infection, which is why it is essential to avoid it.
While pain and discomfort are both parts of the recovery process after a tooth extraction, the procedure is typically performed to address a bigger issue that can cause significantly more pain and discomfort. Call or visit our Marietta clinic if you have an oral problem that might require extraction.
Request an appointment here: https://www.mytotaldentistry.com or call McCarthy Dentistry at (740) 546-5178 for an appointment in our Marietta office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
Dental crowns are a widely used tooth restoration solution in general dentistry. However, it is common to have questions about crowns if it is your first time getting one. Exploring the answers to these questions is the first step in helping you prepare for an upcoming dental crown appointment.Dental crowns are caps that fully encase…
A cosmetic dentist focuses on improving the appearance of the teeth and gums while also maintaining oral health. In some cases, such as teeth straightening, they can even make it easier to maintain the health of the smile. From correcting discoloration to reshaping and aligning teeth, cosmetic dentistry can be subtle or transformative — it…
Children’s dental care is the primary concern of family dentists. While dental care is crucial for all ages, it is particularly important during childhood. Establishing a consistent relationship with a trusted dental provider encourages regular visits and helps children feel at ease in the dental setting as they grow up. Early familiarity with a family…
Dental crowns are a common restorative treatment used in general dentistry. They can restore severely damaged teeth, saving patients from the pain, time, and cost of extraction and replacement. Further, crowns come in a variety of safe, biocompatible materials. Exploring the facts about dental crowns can make you feel more confident in getting one.Dental crowns…
Dental crowns are a widely used tooth restoration solution in general dentistry. However, it is common to have questions about crowns if it is your first time getting one. Exploring the answers to these questions is the first step in helping you prepare for an upcoming dental crown appointment.Dental crowns are caps that fully encase…
A cosmetic dentist focuses on improving the appearance of the teeth and gums while also maintaining oral health. In some cases, such as teeth straightening, they can even make it easier to maintain the health of the smile. From correcting discoloration to reshaping and aligning teeth, cosmetic dentistry can be subtle or transformative — it…