While it’s understandable that you might not be terribly thrilled about learning that you need to have a tooth extracted, this procedure can be the best course of action for your oral health. One of your dentist’s top priorities is the preservation of teeth, and removing a problematic tooth can prevent further tooth loss and serious oral infections. Here’s a brief guide to how you will be kept comfortable during the tooth extraction process as well as a few tips for ensuring that your recovery period goes smoothly.
A Painless Process
After your dentist recommends tooth extraction, the staff will schedule you to receive the procedure during a later appointment. When you are in the treatment chair to have your tooth removed, your dentist will begin the process by administering an appropriate anesthetic treatment to ensure that you feel no pain. They will then use a special device called an elevator to lift the tooth out of its socket before grasping it and gently working it loose with forceps.
You will then be sent home with detailed aftercare instructions and any necessary prescriptions for antibiotics or painkillers. Depending on the type of anesthetic treatment you receive, you will probably need a trusted individual to give you a ride to and from the office.
Tips for a Complication-Free Recovery
After having a tooth removed, it’s important to strictly adhere to your aftercare instructions to ensure your healing process goes smoothly. Since each patient is different, the instructions you receive may vary slightly from those given to another extraction patient, but you can expect them to include:
- Take all medications as prescribed.
- Don’t brush or floss for the first twenty-four hours. Instead, rinse with a mixture of 8 oz of water and a half teaspoon of salt.
- Refrain from spitting or using a straw, as these actions can dislodge the blood clot protecting the healing surgical area, resulting in a severely painful condition called dry socket.
- Don’t smoke, as this will inhibit your gums’ ability to heal and fight infections.
- Get plenty of rest. To help you stay comfortable when lying down, prop up your head with pillows or a cushion.
Tooth extractions have helped preserve the oral health of countless dental patients. If your dentist recommends this procedure, you can rest assured that it is the best way to prevent further damage and infection.
About the Author
Dr. Mahmoud Homsi earned his dental degree from the Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine and has furthered his studies through the prestigious Las Vegas Institute. He is a proud member of the American Dental Association, the New Hampshire Dental Association, and the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. His office in Concord offers general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry such as tooth extraction services. If you are concerned that you may need an extraction, contact his office online or dial (603) 228-0123.