Extractions

An extraction means removing a tooth, usually due to illness or trauma or because there are crowded teeth.

What should you expect when you have a tooth extraction scheduled?

The dentist will sleep the area to reduce discomfort. After the extraction, it will advise you on the regimen to follow. In most cases, it is normal to bleed a little. The mouth will slowly fill in the bone where the tooth root was located by forming a blood clot.

Here are some tips to follow to make recovery easier:

• Avoid anything that can impede normal healing.
• Do not smoke or rinse your mouth vigorously.
• Avoid drinking through a straw for 24 hours.
• Follow the diet prescribed by the dentist.

During the first few days, if you need to rinse, do it gently. If you have swelling, apply a cold cloth or ice pack and call the dentist immediately. Ask her for some pain medicine. You can brush your other teeth and floss your teeth as usual. But do not clean the teeth next to the one that has been extracted.

When you have an extraction, remember that current modern procedures and follow-up treatment (recommended by the dentist) are intended for your benefit and comfort.