Tooth Extractions
Although our primary objective is to preserve and care for your natural teeth, there are situations where the best course of action is to extract a tooth. We work to make extractions as easy as possible so you can concentrate on a quick recovery.
Tooth Extractions in Pinson, AL
Tooth extraction is typically a quick and painless procedure, as we use anesthesia to ensure your comfort throughout. The most critical part of the process is recovery. Our priority is to control bleeding and promote proper healing immediately after the extraction. we’ll have you bite down on a gauze pad for about 30 to 45 minutes to allow a blood clot to form. It’s crucial not to disturb this blood clot for the next 24 hours. To address any swelling, we recommend using an ice pack on the outer cheek. Once the swelling subsides, applying a warm compress to the same area can provide additional comfort. Gentle rinses with warm salt water also help keep the extraction area clean.
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How do you prevent dry socket after tooth extraction?
When you have a tooth extracted, you develop a blood clot shortly after the surgery to begin the healing process. If this blood clot becomes dislodged before your mouth has fully healed it can expose the bone and can cause pain, this is called dry socket.
Tips For Preventing Dry Socket
- Avoid straws or anything that creates a suction movement of air and cheek muscles.
- Avoid smoking tobacco, marijuana or vaping as fast inhalation can dislodge your blood clot and the chemicals may prevent healing or cause an infection. We would strongly encourage you to wait until more than one week after extraction.
- Only eat soft foods like applesauce, yogurt, and mashed potatoes for the first day or two.
- Ask us about any medicines you’re taking to ensure they don’t negatively impact the healing process.
- Practice proper oral hygiene to keep your mouth clean and use an antibacterial mouthwash.
- Follow your doctor’s instructions on proper oral care to improve recovery time.
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Does dry socket heal on its own?
Dry socket can be extremely painful and poses an elevated risk of infection, potentially prolonging the healing process. However, our office is equipped to help alleviate this discomfort. We can provide a medicated gauze specifically designed to reduce pain in the affected socket. Dry sockets will recover naturally as long as proper care instructions are followed and an infection is avoided.
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When and why are wisdom teeth removed?
Wisdom teeth, the final set of teeth to develop, typically emerge at the back of the mouth. This usually occurs during the late teens or early twenties. However, due to their tendency to grow at awkward angles and potentially cause crowding by bumping into other teeth, most people opt to have them removed. The limited space available in the mouth further contributes to the need for extraction. As a result, approximately 85% of adults eventually undergo the removal of their wisdom teeth.
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What causes the need for tooth extraction?
Tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth from its socket in the bone. Tooth extraction usually occurs when a tooth has been broken or damaged by decay and there is too much damage for the tooth to be repaired by a filling or crown.
However, there are other reasons for tooth extraction including, extra teeth growing in that are blocking others, baby teeth that haven’t fallen out in time for the permanent teeth to come in, braces, or wisdom teeth that are commonly removed for medical reasons.
Questions About Tooth Extractions?
If you have any questions about tooth extractions or for a consultation—contact us or schedule your appointment using the link below, or explore the numerous other dental services we offer.
