Tooth extractions may be necessary for adults due to multiple scenarios. Knowing what to expect after tooth extraction can help ease your mind about the procedure.
Before Getting Your Tooth Extracted
There are several steps that will be taken before you get your tooth extracted. Your dentist will do a pre-treatment examination, which will likely include an x-ray. You will also have your medical history reviewed. Your dentist will ask you about any medications that you are taking.
What to Expect During The Procedure
A dentist will use a local anesthetic to numb the area before you get your tooth pulled. The anesthetic will prevent you from feeling any pain during the extraction. The dentist may have to remove bone tissue and gum before extracting the tooth. Your dentist will use forceps to grasp the tooth. After that, they will slowly move the tooth back and forth in order to pull it out.
If a tooth is hard to remove, then the dentist may have to remove small pieces of it at one time. A blood clot will usually form after the tooth is extracted. Gauze pads will be used to control the bleeding.
What to Expect After Tooth Extraction
It is important to know what to expect after tooth extraction. You will be able to leave the dentist’s office after you have gotten your tooth extracted. It can take a few days for you to recover. Your dentist will give you specific aftercare instructions before you leave the office.
You may have to bite down on your gauze pad for 45 minutes to one hour in order to control the bleeding. In order to prevent the blood clot from dislodging, you will need to avoid vigorous rinsing or spitting. You will also need to avoid consuming very hot liquids or food. Apple juice, oatmeal, mashed potatoes and supplemental nutrition drinks are great for you to eat after surgery.
You will need to avoid strenuous activities for the first 24 hours. Do not lift any heavy objects or bend. You may want to avoid work for at least one day and rest. Keep your head elevated.
It is normal to have pain and swelling after your extraction. You can use ice packs to minimize swelling. You can also use an anti-inflammatory medication to stop the bleeding. If you are a smoker, then you will need to avoid smoking for at least 48 hours. Smoking has a tendency to impede the healing process.
Try to avoid blowing your nose for the first 24 hours after extraction. The pressure that is created in the sinus area may cause the clot to dislodge. If you have to sneeze, then you should do it with your mouth open.
You may have to take antibiotics after your extraction. The purpose of the antibiotics is to treat or prevent an infection. Make sure that you continue taking the antibiotics until your dentist tells you that it is okay to stop.
Call Our Dental Office Today
If you believe you are in need of a tooth extraction, Mountain View Dental will be able to care for you. We can answer questions about the procedure that you may have and schedule a consultation with you. Contact us today at 385-324-3557.
