Dental Extractions

Dental Extractions

You and Dr. Dianati may determine that you need to have a tooth extracted. There are several reasons for this, for example: (1) severe decay; (2) advanced periodontal disease, (3) have broken in a way that cannot be repaired; (4) Other teeth may need to be removed because they are poorly positioned, e.g., impacted teeth, (5) to prepare for orthodontic treatment, or (6) resorption, i.e., when your own body is attacking a tooth.

However, the removal of a tooth can lead to chewing problems, jaw joint problems, shifting teeth, and may, in general, have a major impact on your dental health. Accordingly, Dr. Dianati will discuss alternatives to tooth extractions as well as the replacement of the extracted tooth.

What is the extraction process?

Dr. Dianati will numb your tooth and surrounding gums with local anesthetic. Also, this process can be performed with IV sedation. During the extraction process you will feel a lot of pressure as Dr. Dianati firmly rocks the tooth to widen the socket to allow for removal. However, remember, Dr. Dianati applies an anesthetic to help numb the nerves, which will reduce the pain, but not the feeling of pressure. If you feel pain during the extraction, then please let us know.

Sometimes a tooth will require what is called sectioning. This is a common procedure utilized when a tooth is strongly anchored in its socket, or when the root is curved which prevents the expansion of the socket. With sectioning, Dr. Dianati simply cuts the tooth into sections, removing each section one at a time.

What is the post extraction process?

After tooth extraction, it’s crucial for a blood clot to form to stop the bleeding and allow healing. Consequently, you will need to bite on a gauze for 30-45 minutes immediately after the appointment. If the bleeding or oozing still persists, place another gauze pad and bite firmly for another 30 minutes. You may have to do this several times to stop the bleeding.

After the blood clot forms it is important to not disturb the clot. For example, do not rinse vigorously, use straws, smoke, drink alcohol, or brush teeth near the extraction site for 72 hours. The reason is simple in that these activities may disrupt the clot and hamper the healing process. Further, avoid vigorous exercise for 24 hours.

After the tooth is extracted it is normal to feel some pain and have some swelling. An ice pack or an unopened bag of frozen peas or corn applied to the area will help reduce swelling. The swelling usually improves after 48 hours.

Also, don’t forget to take pain medications as prescribed and use them as directed. Feel free to call our office if the medication doesn’t seem to be working. If antibiotics are prescribed, then you must continue to take them for the indicated length of time, regardless of whether there are no longer any signs and symptoms of infection.

Take care of yourself. Drink lots of fluids and eat nutritious, soft food on the day of the extraction. You can eat normally when you regain your comfort.

It is important to follow a normal healthy dental routine after 24 hours, which includes brushing and flossing your teeth at least once a day. Good oral hygiene will advance the healing process.

After a few days you should feel fine and can resume your normal activities. If you have heavy bleeding, severe pain, continued swelling for 2-3 days, or a reaction to the medication, call our office immediately.

Call our office today at 818-584-1841 for a consultation to review enhancing your oral health.