Tooth Extraction
At Brush Rinse Floss, we perform tooth extractions due to a number of reasons. From mouth crowding to infection, it’s often important to remove a tooth in order to protect your mouth from more serious consequences.
Some commons reasons for tooth extractions include the following:
- Mouth Crowding: If teeth are too crowded, extraction may be needed, especially in preparation for orthodontia which serves to align teeth.
- Risk of Infection: If your immune system is compromised due to chemotherapy or preparation for an organ transplant, extraction may be required to avoid risk of infection.
- Infection: Tooth extraction may be needed to prevent spread of infection in the event that it was not effectively treated with antibiotics.
- Gum Disease: If gum disease has caused a tooth to be loosened, your dentist may recommend extraction.
Tooth extraction is performed by a dentist or an oral surgeon, and typically begins with numbing the area around the tooth, or, if you’re having more than one tooth removed, general anesthetic may be administered.
After your tooth is removed, gauze is placed over the gum to control bleeding. A clot should form in the socket, which is important for healing. It’s vital that you not dislodge the clot, but rather replace the gauze should it become blood-soaked. Gauze should be kept in place for 3-4 hours after tooth is removed.
Once home, take it easy for a couple of days and only eat soft foods like soup or yogurt. As healing continues, you can add regular food to your meals. Continue to brush your teeth and tongue, but leave the empty socket alone. Don’t spit or rinse forcefully in the first 24 hours after extraction.
Call your dentist or oral surgeon if:
- The swelling gets worse instead of better
- You have fever, chills, or redness
- You have trouble swallowing
- You have uncontrolled bleeding in the area
- The area continues to ooze or bleed after the first 24 hours
- Your tongue, chin, or lip feels numb more than 3 to 4 hours after the procedure
- The extraction site becomes very painful as this may be a sign that you have developed a dry socket.
Contact us to learn more about our tooth extraction services, or to schedule an appointment today.
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At Brush Rinse Floss, we provide exceptional dental services to ensure long-term oral health. Contact us to learn more about our dental services or to make an appointment today.