Tooth Extraction / Tooth Removal

Dental extractions, also known as tooth extractions, are dental procedures that involve the removal of a tooth or multiple teeth from the mouth. There are various reasons why a dentist may recommend a dental extraction, including:

1.Severe tooth decay that has damaged the tooth beyond repair.

2.Advanced periodontal disease, which can cause tooth loss.

3.Impacted wisdom teeth that are causing pain or crowding.

4.Infection or abscess that cannot be treated with a root canal.

5.Crowded teeth that need to be removed to make space for orthodontic treatment.

There are two types of dental extractions: simple and surgical. Simple extractions are performed on teeth that are visible in the mouth, while surgical extractions are required for teeth that have not fully erupted or are broken below the gum line.

DO'S AND DON'TS AFTER EXTRACTION

After a tooth extraction, it's important to take proper care of the extraction site to promote healing and prevent complications. Here are some general do's and don'ts to follow after a tooth extraction:

DO's:

1.Bite down on gauze: Bite down on a piece of gauze placed by your dentist on the extraction site for around 45-60 minutes. This will help control bleeding.

2.Apply ice: Apply ice to the affected area to reduce swelling. Apply it for 15 minutes and take a break of 15 minutes and repeat for       24 hours after the procedure.

3.Take medications: Take pain medication or antibiotics as prescribed by your dentist to manage pain and prevent infection.

4.Rest: Avoid any strenuous activity for the first 24 hours following the extraction.

5.Eat soft foods: Stick to a soft food diet for the first few days and avoid spicy or acidic foods.

6.Rinse your mouth gently: Gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water to keep the area clean and to promote healing.

DON'Ts:

1.Don't smoke: Avoid smoking or using any tobacco products for at least 24 hours after the extraction as it can slow down the healing process.

2.Don't drink through a straw: Do not drink through a straw for the first 24 hours as the suction created by using a straw can dislodge the blood clot and delay healing.

3.Don't rinse your mouth vigorously: Avoid vigorous rinsing for at least 24 hours to avoid dislodging the blood clot.

4.Don't eat hard or crunchy foods: Avoid hard or crunchy foods like nuts, popcorn, chips, and carrots that can irritate the extraction site.

5.Don't touch the extraction site: Avoid touching the extraction site with your fingers or tongue as it can introduce bacteria and delay healing.

It's important to follow these do's and don'ts to promote proper healing after a tooth extraction. If you experience any excessive bleeding, severe pain, or signs of infection, contact your dentist immediately

Frequently Asked Questions