Tooth Extractions

What is it and when would I need it?

A tooth extraction (tooth pulling) is considered when the tooth is either severely decayed, fractured, or when periodontitis is causing problems. Common teeth pulled are wisdom teeth and baby teeth. Sometimes, when a tooth cannot be saved, a tooth extraction may be the best option to relieve any pain and prevent the spread of infection. While these procedures are generally successful, there is no guarantee that the proposed treatment will be curative and/or successful to your present condition.

What should I expect after the procedure?
It is normal to feel some mild discomfort and swelling for several days after extraction.

During the first 24 hours:
Bleeding may occur and can be managed with gauze.
Pain medication can be taken to manage any discomfort.

Things to avoid:
Avoid drinking carbonated, hot or alcoholic beverages, or sucking through a straw.
Avoid eating very hot foods or foods that contain small kernels, oats, seeds or nuts.
Do not smoke for at least 72 hours after extraction.
Avoid strenuous physical activity.

After 24 hours:
Resume eating normally as soon as it’s comfortable.
Resume brushing and flossing, but gently clean around the extraction site for about 1 week.
If antibiotics were prescribed, continue to take them for the indicated length of time – even if all symptoms and signs of infection are gone.
Further reduce swelling by rinsing your mouth gently with warm salt water. Mix one teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water. Gently rinse 2-3 times a day for one week following the extraction. After 36 hours following extraction, the application of moist heat to the sides of the face is beneficial to reduce swelling. Swelling usually starts to subside after 3-5 days.

For more details on what to expect after the extraction procedure, Download our Extraction Post Operative Instructions Here