How a Tooth is Extracted
Several factors affect the type and significance of a tooth extraction, including the location in the mouth, the state of the tooth’s roots, the type of damage sustained, and other general health issues.
That said, tooth extractions at our Grande Prairie clinic generally follow these steps:
- An initial exam to determine whether the patient’s past medical history could cause potential issues during the procedure.
- X-rays of the area will be taken to determine how to precisely extract the tooth.
- Determining the type of pain relief that will be used according to the patient’s needs and preferences. This can be local anesthesia or some other form of sedation dentistry.
- The gum near the affected tooth will be opened by making a small incision.
- Remove any bone debris around the tooth if necessary.
- Gently extracting the tooth.
- If needed, replace some of the bone with lab-processed bone material.
- Small stitches may be used to close the site if it is needed.
After a Tooth Extraction
Here are some tips to follow that will help ensure that the recovery goes smoothly:
- Reduce swelling by pressing an ice pack against your cheek. Do this in 10-minute intervals so as not to damage the skin tissue.
- You’ll be asked to tenderly bite down on a square of gauze to reduce bleeding after the procedure. Follow your dentist’s instructions on the replacement process and duration of time.
- Take pain medications as needed and prescribed.
- Take antibiotics as prescribed, and do not stop taking them until the entire prescription is completed.
- Remain less active for 24 hours to allow more complete healing.
- Avoid rubbing the socket with your tongue.
- Avoid usage of straws, as the sucking may dislodge the clot.
- Avoid smoking for 72 hours at the minimum as this reduces your immune response.
- Prop your head up with pillows
- Eat soft foods and don’t chew near the area until it’s fully healed.
- Take several days to go back to your regular diet.
Consequences of the Procedure
Extractions are a common restorative dental procedure and generally have limited negative outcomes. However, here are some adverse effects that can occur of which patients should be aware of:
- Bleeding that lasts longer than 12 hours
- Chest pain
- Cough
- Fever or chills, which can result from an infection
- Nausea or vomiting
- Shortness of breath
- Swelling at the procedure site
Recovery from a tooth extraction near you involves giving your mouth time to heal and allowing a blood clot to form over the socket. If a clot does not form or is dislodged, contact your dentist in Grande Prairie right away, as this will expose the bone and may result in a “dry socket.” To prevent this, the dentist will put a sedative dressing over it while the new clot forms (usually about 3 days).