Tooth extractions are a standard procedure dentists perform on patients of all ages. While tooth extractions are not ideal, they are sometimes necessary to preserve oral and overall health.

 
At Toothday Family Dentistry, the most common reason for which we prescribe extraction is severe tooth decay or damage that has caused the tooth to become infected. Teeth that are severely decayed or infected can cause severe pain and swelling. If left untreated, the infection can spread to other areas of the mouth and even cause serious health problems. 

An extraction may also be recommended if the tooth is causing crowding in the mouth. Overcrowding can lead to other teeth becoming crooked or misaligned.

The Procedure for Tooth Extractions

A tooth may be extracted for several reasons, including severe decay or infection, advanced periodontal disease, and to make room for orthodontic treatment. 

The extraction process in Alton, Donna, and McAllen, TX, begins with administering local anesthesia to numb the area and minimize discomfort. Next, the tooth is loosened using a special tool called an elevator and then removed with dental forceps. Once the procedure is complete, the dentist will suture the socket closed to promote healing. 

After an extraction, it is essential to follow all aftercare instructions provided by our dentist. This includes avoiding smoking, drinking through a straw, and eating hard foods until the area has healed. It is also essential to keep the area clean by rinsing your mouth with salt water after meals and brushing your teeth gently.

Tooth Extraction Aftercare

The aftercare instructions our dentist in Alton, Donna, and McAllen, TX, gives you after a tooth extraction are extremely important to follow. Our dentist may prescribe pain medication or antibiotics to help you manage discomfort or infection after the surgery. You may also be advised to take over-the-counter pain relievers.

You may also be instructed to avoid eating solid foods for a few days after surgery. Instead, it would help if you focused on drinking fluids and eating soft foods like yogurt, applesauce, and soup. Avoid chewing on the side of your mouth where the tooth was extracted until it has healed completely.

It would help to avoid smoking for at least 72 hours after your surgery. Smoking can delay the healing process and cause complications like dry sockets. You should also avoid using straws, spitting, rinsing your mouth vigorously, or drinking hot liquids for the first 24 hours.

Bleeding is normal after an extraction, so don’t be alarmed if you see blood in your saliva. To help stop the bleeding, bite down on the gauze pad your dentist will give you before you leave the office. Call your dentist immediately if the bleeding doesn’t stop within 24 hours.

Tooth extractions are sometimes necessary when a tooth is too damaged to save or it’s causing problems for your oral health. If you are experiencing pain or other issues with your teeth, visit Toothday Family Dentistry, or call us for more information.