Tooth Extractions
In some cases, it is in your best interest to have a tooth removed. We work to make tooth extractions as easy as possible so you can focus on recovering quickly.
The Process of Tooth Extraction
Lifetime Dental & Implant Center offers tooth extractions for patients if they need a tooth safely removed. The process is typically fast with the most critical part being recovery. Controlling the bleeding after a tooth extraction is important for the healing process, so we will have you bite down on a gauze pad for 30 to 45 minutes to form a blood clot. You should not disturb the blood clot for the next 24 hours so it can heal properly. We recommend an ice pack to the outer cheek for the swelling. Once it has decreased, you can place a warm compress to the same area. Remember to rinse your mouth with salt water to clean the extraction area.
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Preventing Dry Socket
When a tooth is extracted, a blood clot forms shortly after the procedure – this is the beginning of the healing process. If this blood clot becomes dislodged before your mouth has healed fully, this causes pain and is called dry socket.
Avoid dry socket with these tips:
- Don’t drink out of straws or anything that creates suction
- Don’t smoke tobacco
- Only eat foods like applesauce, yogurt, etc. for the first couple of days
- Practice good oral hygiene to keep the area clean
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What can I eat after tooth extraction?
It’s important to stick to soft foods for the first couple of days following your tooth extraction. You don’t want to disturb the blood clot that has formed, so some foods you can eat are:
- Applesauce
- Yogurt
- Mashed potatoes
- Jello
- Pudding
- Ice cream
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What causes the need for tooth extraction?
A patient may need a tooth extracted when a tooth has become broken or damaged by decay. Other reasons for extractions include extra teeth growing in, baby teeth that haven’t fallen out, wisdom teeth and medical reasons.
More Questions?
If you have more questions about tooth extractions, please contact our office and we will be happy to discuss further. You can also request an appointment or see the other services we provide using the links below.