An extraction means to have a tooth removed, usually because of disease, trauma or crowding.
If you need an extraction, Dr. Marler, or Armstrong will first numb the area to lessen any discomfort. After the extraction, we will advise you of what post extraction regimen to follow. In most cases a small amount of bleeding is normal. Your mouth will slowly fill in the bone where the tooth root was through the formation of a blood clot.
Here are some tips to follow to make recovery easier:
- Avoid anything that might prevent normal healing.
- Don’t smoke or rinse your mouth vigorously.
- Avoid drinking through a straw for 24 hours.
- Follow the diet suggested by our office.
For the first few days, if you must rinse, rinse your mouth gently. If you experience swelling, apply a cold cloth or an ice bag and call your our office right away. Ask about pain medication. You can brush and floss the other teeth as usual. But don't clean the teeth next to where the tooth was removed.
There are certain teeth and situations that require a referral to an oral surgeon. Dr. Marler or Armstrong will perform an exam prior to the tooth being extracted. If it needs to be referred, they will explain the situation and refer you to to proper office.
