Dental professionals do everything they can to avoid extracting your tooth, but some situations will require one. Issues like impacted, overcrowded, broken, or severely decayed teeth are some of the most common reasons a patient needs their tooth pulled out. Trust the experts at Brawley Dental Clinic to keep you in the best state of mind as we perform a tooth extraction.

What Happens During a Tooth Extraction?

A dentist will remove a tooth during an extraction for various reasons. Depending on the tooth’s shape, size, position, and location, patients would need to either get a simple or surgical extraction. A simple tooth extraction removes what’s visible above the gum line, while a surgical one removes the tooth and the bone underneath. Sometimes, surgical extractions require removing the impacted tooth in pieces.

People may need a tooth extraction for the following reasons:

How to Prepare

Before your tooth extraction, you will need to have a consultation that involves thoroughly going over your medical history and what medications you’re taking. You may also need certain painkillers or antibiotics after the surgery. Below are some of the best ways to prepare for your tooth extraction.

Don’t Smoke Before the Procedure

Smokers are advised to stop smoking as soon as possible before and after the procedure. Not only can it disrupt the healing process, but it can also introduce various issues.

Stop Taking Blood Thinners

It’s crucial for you to let us know if you’re on blood thinners prior to your tooth extraction. They will interfere with your body’s ability to stop the blood blow at the extraction site. Clotting is what makes the healing process go by smoothly.

Arrange for Someone to Drive You Home

You will be under anesthesia during a tooth extraction, so you will need to arrange for a responsible adult to drive you to and from your appointment. This person should also be available to help take care of you for at least the next 24 hours after the procedure.

Get All the Information You Need to Know About the Procedure

During your consultation, you’ll want to get all the clarifications you need before going in for your surgery. Knowing what to expect has made the process much easier for patients and has helped them better prepare for their tooth extraction.

Healing After a Tooth Extraction

Now that the affected tooth has been removed, it’s time to focus on healing. Aftercare is crucial because how you take care of the extraction site will determine how long and how well it heals. Follow these instructions after your procedure for a smooth and successful healing process.

Control Swelling by Applying Ice to the Area

Some swelling is expected after getting your tooth removed. Applying ice to your face where the tooth was extracted can help to minimize it. If you notice excessive swelling and have a fever or pain, call the office immediately.

Do Not Disturb the Extraction Site

If you want to ensure a successful healing process, leave the extraction site alone! Avoid chewing on the side where the surgery was performed and eat softer foods for the next three days. Brushing, flossing, and rinsing with mouthwash are fine as long as you’re gentle with it. You should avoid spitting or sucking through a straw for a few days after the surgery.

Avoid or Limit Physical Activity

You’ll heal much quicker when you rest. For the first 24 hours after the extraction, limit your physical activity. When you get home from the appointment, you’ll want to lay with your head elevated and take it easy for the rest of the day.

Use Pressure to Control Bleeding

Bleeding for the next 24 hours after the extraction is expected. To control this, you’ll want to use a moist cloth or a teabag to apply firm pressure on the extraction site. If your bleeding is excessive or does not stop after applying pressure for 20 minutes, please call the office.

Do You Need a Tooth Extraction in Schulenburg, TX?

If you’re in or near Schulenburg, TX, and need a tooth extraction, Brawley Dental Clinic is ready to help! Please give us a call if you’d like more information about this service.