Tooth extraction is a dental procedure that involves removing your teeth from their socket. Extraction can be necessary due to gum disease, overcrowded teeth, tooth infection or decay, damage to your teeth, or impacted teeth.
Tooth extraction can either be surgical or simple and is done by your dentist or an oral surgeon. At the procedure, the dentist will inject you with anesthesia to numb the area and reduce the pain that you may experience during the process. If the extraction is simple, your dentist will use a dental device called an elevator to move your tooth back and forth until the tooth loosens, after which the tooth will be removed using forceps.
If your tooth is impacted, this will need a surgical extraction. First, your dentist will cut away the gum and bone tissue covering your tooth. They will then use a pair of forceps to rock your tooth back and forth until it breaks away. If the tooth is difficult to extract, then it has to be removed in pieces.
After the tooth is removed, a blood clot will usually form in the socket. Your dentist may place a gauze pad on it to stop the bleeding. Sometimes stitches are also necessary.
Read more on how to take care of your mouth after tooth extraction and the precautions taken to ensure speedy healing.
The Consequences of Tooth Extractions
Besides the formation of a blood clot in the socket, there are other risks involved with tooth extraction, including:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Bleeding which lasts more than 12 hours
- Cough
- Severe chills and fever which may signal an infection
- Shortness of breath and chest pains
- Redness and swelling of the surgical site
If you experience any of the above symptoms, contact or visit a dentist near you for assistance.
Tooth Extraction Aftercare – Managing the Pain
Pain, discomfort, and soreness are the most common symptoms you will have after tooth extraction. It is also normal for some parts of your face to appear swollen. Your dentist will provide you with painkillers to help you alleviate the pain. They may also recommend over-the-counter drugs.
Precautions and Aftercare for Tooth Extraction
The aftercare depends on the type of extraction or the location of the extracted tooth. You can expect to heal in a matter of 7 to 10 days. It is important to keep your blood clot in place in your tooth’s socket. Dislodging the blood clot can cause a dry socket, which is very painful.
There are steps you can take to help speed the healing period. These include following all directions provided by your dentist, as well as the following:
- Taking prescribed painkillers
- Do not remove the initial gauze pad until about four hours after the procedure.
- Rest for 24 hours after the extraction and limit your activities for a couple of days.
- Apply an ice pack to the affected site immediately, for a maximum of 10 minutes.
- Do not rinse, spit, or use a straw for 24 hours after the procedure. This will help prevent dislodging the blood clot.
- Rinse your mouth with a salt solution after 24 hours. The salt solution should be made with half a teaspoon of salt and 8 ounces of warm water.
- Prop your head with pillows when sleeping as lying flat may prolong healing.
- Avoid smoking.
- Brush and floss your teeth to prevent any infection, but avoid the extraction site.
- Eat soft foods such as yogurt, pudding, applesauce, and soup. You can also add smoothies, but you will have to eat them using a spoon.
Where Can You Find Tooth Extraction in St. Pete Beach?
If you have a dental problem such as an impacted tooth, over-crowdedness, or a damaged tooth that requires tooth extraction, you can visit Dental Arts. Our amazing staff offers the best dental services to you and your family members. We also have a children’s dentist to take care of teens and children. Our dental office in St. Pete Beach is strategically placed at the center of the town and can be accessed by everyone.
