Tooth Extractions
We aim to preserve your natural teeth, but tooth extraction is sometimes the best option. Our team makes the process as easy as possible for a quick recovery.
The Process of Tooth Extraction
At Barrhaven Dental Studio, we strive to help you maintain all of your teeth for as long as possible. However, there are situations where a tooth extraction is the best option for long-term oral health. Although tooth extractions are usually quick, the recovery process is crucial. Controlling bleeding immediately after the tooth extraction to ensure proper healing is vital. For this, we will ask you to bite down on a gauze pad for 30 to 45 minutes to form a blood clot. Refrain from disturbing the blood clot for the next 24 hours is essential. Avoid using straws, as sucking can loosen the clot and cause a dry socket. We suggest using an ice pack on the outer cheek to reduce swelling. Once the swelling subsides, a warm compress can be applied to the same area for added comfort. Additionally, you can rinse your mouth gently with salt water to keep the extraction area clean.
-
How can I avoid getting a dry socket after having a tooth extracted?
When you have a tooth extracted, a blood clot forms in the socket, which begins the healing process. However, if this clot becomes dislodged before your mouth fully recovers, it can cause a painful condition called dry socket. To prevent this, here are six tips:
- Avoid using straws or anything that creates suction or large movements of air.
- Do not smoke tobacco, as the act of inhaling can dislodge the blood clot, and the chemicals in tobacco can prevent healing or cause an infection.
- Eat only soft foods such as applesauce, yogurt, and mashed potatoes for the first one or two days.
- Ask your doctor about your medications to ensure they do not harm healing.
- Use proper oral hygiene to keep your mouth clean, and consider using an antibacterial mouthwash.
- Follow your doctor’s instructions for proper oral care to improve your recovery.
-
When and why are wisdom teeth removed?
The wisdom teeth are the last molars to grow in the back of the mouth. Typically, they emerge during the late teenage years or early twenties. However, since these teeth tend to grow at an angle and often have little space, they may cause crowding and interfere with other teeth. Therefore, most people opt to have them removed. Around 85% of adults choose to have their wisdom teeth extracted.
-
What causes the need for tooth extraction?
Tooth extraction is a dental procedure that involves the removal of a tooth from its socket in the bone. This procedure is typically performed when a tooth is damaged or broken due to decay and the damage is too severe to be fixed with a filling or crown. However, teeth may also be extracted for other reasons, such as when extra teeth are blocking others, baby teeth have not fallen out in time for permanent teeth to come in, wisdom teeth need to be removed, or medical reasons.
More Questions?
If you have more questions about tooth extractions, please contact our office and we will be happy to discuss further. You can also schedule an appointment or see the other services we provide using the links below.
