Extractions: WHY!?

We understand that there are a lot of unknowns about getting a tooth pulled. For that matter, it is our job to make this transition as smooth as possible through educating you about what to expect from the appointment. We have outlined below frequently asked questions about tooth extractions.

Why did I need to get my tooth pulled?

Whether you’re facing a wisdom tooth extraction or an extraction of any other tooth, it’s because that tooth has either become problematic or has reduced your oral health in some way. Typically, a wisdom tooth is extracted if it’s impacted or causing other nearby teeth to decay. Reasons for extracting any other teeth can vary as well. Whether it be cavities or a failed root canal be sure to ask your dentist before the procedure so that you both are on the same page.

What to expect during the procedure

To make this process as comfortable as possible, we will begin by applying numbing gel around the tooth to be extracted. After this settles in, we will slowly begin anesthetizing the tooth. Depending how impacted or crowded your toot is, we may need to drill the tooth. Naturally, you will hear some sounds and cracking noises as the tooth is elevated. Your dentist will be sure to go over these steps again prior to beginning so you both are on the same page.

Post Op Instructions

You will leave your extraction appointment with some gauze and a 6mL syringe. Be sure to keep biting down on the gauze and replace it as needed. Also take the 6mL syringe and clean the extraction site area with warm salt water. Be sure not to press on the syringe too hard as you may cause a dry socket to form. (More on this here). Be sure to ice your cheeks as much as possible and rest by taking a break from the gym or any other strenuous activities.

Bleeding

Bleeding after surgery is quite normal. You may see slight bleeding or oozing from the extraction site. If excessive bleeding persists for more than a day, please contact us immediately.

The best thing you can do to stop bleeding is firmly biting down on gauze or a teabag over the extraction site for half an hour. Check if the bleeding is slowing down and repeat this process if necessary.

Swelling

Swelling is also normal and expected around the extraction area, cheeks, eyes, and sides of the face. This is a normal reaction in your body’s process of healing. Swelling may start the day of the treatment and will reach its maximum two to three days after. If swelling continues past several days, do not be alarmed but call us to receive further instructions.

The best way to keep swelling down is by frequently ice the side of the cheek you had the procedure on. Fifteen minutes on and fifteen minutes off for three days should suffice. On days three and four, use a moist heat pack to further minimize swelling.

Pain

Although reports of pain varies from patient to patient, you can expect some degree of discomfort as the numbness wears off after your appointment. Be sure to take the medication prescribed by your dentist as indicated. Typically, your dentist will prescribe an NSAID and an opioid like hydrocodone. Since the dangers of hydrocodone are well documented, we advise that you only use the hydrocodone in an emergency situation. Medication may make you drowsy so we also recommend that you do not drive or work any heavy machinery during your recovery period.

Diet

Another common question we get is if you can drink alcohol during your recovery period. Since you will be on drugs, we recommend refraining from drinking any type of alcohol because mixing of these two can cause some serious side effects. Additionally, it is imperative that you stay away from using straws, carbonated beverages, and smoking since it can dislodge the clot forming in your extraction site. If this clot does dislodge, it can cause dry socket and increase the amount of time it takes for you to heal.

Stick to soft foods like fruit smoothies (without seeds), mashed potatoes, or porridge. Other great sources for nutrition are, ensure, milk, pumpkin puree, and yogurt. Also increase your fluid intake and drink slowly.

Brushing

Avoid brushing for at least the first 24 hours after your surgery. We know this sounds weird for your dentist to tell you not to brush, but it can cause your stitches to come undone and also disrupt the healing process. Also avoid mouthwash or rinsing with anything during the first 24 hours as well. Starting the day after surgery, you can gently rinse frequently with a salt water mix. Avoid the extraction site if you decide to brush, and do it gently.

Antibiotics

If antibiotics are prescribed, follow the instructions carefully and make sure you finish the entire bottle as instructed. Stopping your antibiotic medication can cause you to develop an infection so it’s crucial that you finish. Eating yogurt with your antibiotic can also help replenish good gut microbes and negate side effects that may arise with your medication.

Nausea and Vomiting

If you end up with severe nausea and vomiting, do not take any dentist prescribed medications for at least an hour. Sip on some tea, cider, or ginger ale. You can still take any diabetic meds, high blood pressure medication, or any other medication that was prescribed prior to your surgery unless your doctor has advised you otherwise. Be sure to call your doctor if symptoms of nausea and vomiting persists

Other complications

• Be aware that antibiotic medication can interfere with your birth control pills. Consult with your general physician and dentist about this.
• Avoid really hot foods if your lips, tongue, and cheeks are still numb after surgery. Since you cannot gauge the hotness of your food. This can cause severe burning of the mouth and cause serious injury.
• Stiffness of your jaw is quite common and may cause difficulty in opening your mouth.
• It’s possible that you may develop a sore throat and maybe even a slight elevation in temperature. While this is common, if these symptoms don’t subside in 2-3 days, call you dentist.
• Be careful when standing up as this may cause sudden dizziness from a lack of fluid intake.
• Avoid sneezing or blowing your nose as this can cause your blood clot to become dislodged.
• Sutures may come undone. If this happens, observe the extraction site and see if you are healed. Depending on the types of stitches your dentist placed, it may be a part of the dissolving process or something your dentist has to look at.
• Discoloration around the extraction site is quite common as your mouth goes through its healing process.