What is a Tooth Extraction?

Tooth removal is a surgical procedure that pulls teeth from the mouth. A dentist or oral surgeon usually performs this procedure.

Tooth extraction can be done for various reasons such as:

• A cavity or deep decay that has penetrated to the root and developed into a periodontal (gum) infection.
• A damaged, broken, or cracked tooth.
• An impacted tooth (a tooth that is not growing properly).
• A gum infection that has developed around food debris or bacteria. The infection can cause a tooth abscess, which can cause pain.

If you suspect a tooth abscess, you should see an emergency dentist in Lincoln right away to prevent an infection from reaching the surrounding tissues.

What Can You Expect After Tooth Extraction?

After tooth extraction in Lincoln, NE, you will experience bleeding, swelling, soreness, and pain. These problems will clear with time, but it is crucial to follow the instructions given by Dr. Brion Dalton to prevent complications.

Tooth Extraction Post-Op Instructions

How you care for the surgical area will determine how fast you recover.

• Avoid spicy and sugary foods.

Avoid spicy, greasy, or acidic foods as they can irritate the mouth and may cause you to experience discomfort and swelling.

Drink lots of water and avoid smoothies and other beverages rich in sugar. Sugar, especially simple sugar such as that found in fruit juices, can increase the swelling of the mouth and gum tissues after tooth extraction.

• Compression

If possible, you should immediately begin compressing the extraction site with a bandage or other soft, sterile bandage. This will help relieve the pressure applied to the extraction site and prevent swelling of the gums.

• Keep the site clean and dry.

You should avoid applying pressure on the extraction, as this can irritate the gums and cause bleeding. You should also avoid applying creams or gels to the extraction site. Keep the extraction site clean, dry, and free of debris.

• Brush carefully

After the tooth was removed, the tooth socket, or the site where the tooth was removed, will probably be a little swollen. The swelling clears in a few days, and you will notice that the tooth socket is pink in color. It is important that you gently brush the tooth socket with your toothbrush as gently as possible. Do not use a hard toothbrush, and do not scrub the tooth socket.

• Prevent dry socket

A blood clot form 24 hours after the extraction to facilitate healing. It is vital to prevent the clot from breaking to avoid a dry socket. A dry socket causes pain and bad breath and slows down the healing process. Avoid drinking beverages with a straw, which can break the clot. If you accidentally dislodge the clot, visit a dental office in Lincoln for assistance.

• Use an Ice Pack

An ice pack reduces swelling and discomfort after a tooth extraction procedure. When applied for 10 minutes every hour for the first 24 hours after a tooth extraction, ice packs can ease discomfort and help speed healing.

• Opt for a Soft Diet

The extraction site will be sensitive to the touch, so you should avoid foods containing many sticky or chewy elements. Eat foods that are soft since they won’t cause any problems. This will help to minimize the discomfort and swelling at the extraction site.

• Avoid sports or vigorous activities.

For the first week after the tooth extraction procedure, patients are advised to refrain from vigorous activities like playing sports. This is because vigorous activities can cause injury to the healing process and may further complicate the healing process.

• Reduce alcohol intake

Our dentist in Bethany also recommends that you do not drink alcohol for at least the first week after the tooth extraction procedure. Alcohol can cause discomfort and may interfere with the healing process.

• Take all meds as prescribed.

A dentist near you will prescribe medications to relieve pain and prevent infection. Avoid taking any medications that can cause bleeding or can increase bleeding risks while they are recovering from a tooth extraction.

Schedule an Appointment

Visit Lincoln Dental Associates for more information about tooth extraction and how to address the discomfort.