What to expect from a tooth extraction?

Dentist Stanhope Gardens carry out tooth extractions under local anaesthetic, so the patient remains awake and can follow simple commands such as "bite down" or "don't swallow." However, sometimes a general anaesthetic may be used, especially in a child who is younger than six years old or if a second upper tooth is being extracted. In these cases, the patient is asleep and doesn't remember anything during the procedure. 

After administering a local anaesthetic to the outside surface of the gums near the teeth to be extracted, your dentist will make incisions inside the gum tissue with a scalpel. He then will use dental forceps to remove the tooth. If a lot of bone needs to be removed, your dentist may use a drill or other instruments. 

-If you are having a wisdom tooth extracted, your dentist will incise the gum tissue over the top of the tooth and loosen the tooth with dental forceps. He will then remove the tooth with a drill. 

-If you are having a baby tooth extracted, your dentist may loosen the tooth with dental forceps and pull it out. 

After the extraction, your dentist will pack a gauze pad over the area where the tooth was removed to control bleeding. You may be prescribed pain relievers. Ensure to follow the directions on your medication so you know when to take it. 

Aftercare tips for tooth extraction

You will experience swelling and bleeding after tooth extraction. It would help if you continued to use whatever method of ice or heat you have been using to comfort the area, as well as your prescribed medication for pain. 

-The gauze pad covering the extraction site will need to be changed often. Don't hesitate to call your dentist if a lot of bleeding occurs or if you see any other sign of discomfort. 

-Drink plenty of fluids to help your mouth heal, but avoid hot liquids which can cause the gum tissue to bleed. Rinse with saltwater solution several times a day, which will also help control bacteria in the area and prevent infection. 

-Bite down lightly on gauze pads for 30 minutes after each time you eat to help control bleeding. 

-Avoid smoking, as it can delay healing. 

-Avoid strenuous physical activity, which can increase bleeding. 

-You should be able to resume your normal activities within a few days. However, avoid eating hard or crunchy foods until the socket has healed completely. 

-Your dentist will schedule a follow-up visit to check on your recovery and remove any packing material. In addition, he may prescribe antibiotics to prevent infection. 

Tips on what to do after tooth extraction

-There will be swelling, which can last up to one week, so try not to touch the area as it may cause you pain. You can use ice packs to help reduce swelling. 

-You may have bleeding for up to one week after tooth extraction, so avoid rinsing or spitting in the area the dentist touched before you bite on some gauze pads. This will help control the bleeding while waiting for it to stop completely. Once you can't feel any more blood on the gauze pads, you can stop using them. 

-Take any medication prescribed to you for pain relief as directed. 

-You should be able to resume your normal activities within a few days but avoid eating hard or crunchy foods until the socket has healed completely 

-Your dentist will schedule a follow-up visit to check on your recovery and remove any packing material. In addition, he may prescribe antibiotics to prevent infection. 

-If you have any other questions or concerns, be sure to contact your dentist. 

-Remember that every person heals differently, so don't be alarmed if you experience some of these symptoms longer than others. Just continue to follow the instructions provided by your dentist. 

-And finally, give yourself time to heal. Don't be too harsh on yourself, and let your body rest and recuperate. Tooth extraction is an extensive procedure, and it will take some time for you to feel like your old self again.