DECIDING TO GET A TOOTH EXTRACTED
You and Dr. Lauvetz-Enmeier may determine that you need a tooth extraction for any number of reasons. Some teeth are extracted because they are severely decayed, others may have advanced periodontal disease, or have broken in a way that cannot be repaired. Other teeth may need removal because they are poorly positioned in the mouth (such as impacted teeth), or in preparation for orthodontic treatment.
The removal of a single tooth can lead to problems related to your chewing ability, problems with your jaw joint, and shifting teeth, which can have a major impact on your dental health.
To avoid these complications, in most cases, Dr. Lauvetz-Enmeier will discuss alternatives to extractions as well as replacement of the extracted tooth.
SECTIONING A TOOTH
Some teeth require sectioning. This is a very common procedure that is done when a tooth is so firmly anchored in its socket or the root is curved and the socket can’t expand enough to remove it.
The doctor simply cuts the tooth into sections then removes each section one at a time.
AFTER TOOTH EXTRACTION
After tooth extraction, it’s important for a blood clot to form to stop the bleeding and begin the healing process. Bite on a gauze pad for 30 to 45 minutes immediately after the procedure. If the bleeding or oozing still persists, place another gauze pad and bite firmly for another 30 minutes. You may have to do this several times to staunch the flow of blood.
After the blood clot forms, it is important to not disturb or dislodge the clot. This means not rinsing vigorously, sucking on straws, smoking, drinking alcohol or brushing teeth next to the extraction site for 72 hours. These activities may dislodge or dissolve the clot and hinder the healing process.
Limit vigorous exercise for the next 24 hours, as this increases blood pressure and may cause more bleeding from the extraction site.
After the tooth is extracted, you may feel some pain and experience some swelling. An ice pack or an unopened bag of frozen peas or corn applied to the area will keep swelling to a minimum. Please take any pain medication as prescribed. The swelling usually subsides after 48 hours.
If antibiotics are prescribed, continue to take them for the indicated length of time even if signs and symptoms of infection are gone. Please contact our office if the medication doesn’t seem to be working or if you are experiencing an adverse reaction to it.
Drink lots of fluids and eat nutritious, soft food on the day of the extraction. You can eat normally as soon as you are comfortable.
It is important to resume your normal dental routine after 24 hours. This should include brushing and flossing your teeth at least once a day. This will speed healing and help keep your mouth fresh and clean.
After a few days, you should feel fine and can resume your normal activities. If you have heavy bleeding, severe pain or continued swelling for two to three days call our office immediately.
If you live in the Stillwater, OK and have questions about tooth extractions or think you need to have a tooth extracted, please contact our office to speak with one of our friendly office staff.
