Healing After Tooth Extraction
A tooth extraction is a common dental procedure where the dental professional completely removes a tooth from the socket. Another term for an extraction is having a tooth pulled. Extractions are typically performed by dentists but may also be performed by a specialist including a periodontist or oral surgeon. Specialists are usually used in cases which are more complex extractions.
Causes
It is always preferred to preserve the natural teeth if possible. Dental professionals often use a filling or crown to restore and preserve a natural tooth. Sometimes, the tooth is damaged beyond repair and unfortunately must be removed. Below are common causes for a tooth extraction:
- Large cavities or severe decay
- Tooth fracture
- Impacted teeth
- Overcrowding
- Periodontitis or severe gum disease
- Injury, accident, or trauma
Procedure
A tooth extraction starts with the dentist administering a local anesthesia. This numbs the tooth and surrounding area to ensure patients remain comfortable. Special dental instruments are then used with gentle pressure to loosen the tooth and pull it out of the socket. In some cases, the dentist may make incisions in the gums in order to access the tooth. Following the removal, the dentist will clean and disinfect the socket. Bone grafts may be used to help prevent the loss of bone in the jaw. Stitches are then placed to close the extraction site and aid in the healing process.
Healing
Following the completion of the procedure, the dentist will place gauze over the extraction site and apply pressure. The gauze and pressure aid in slowing down the bleeding and helping form a blood clot. Clotting is an important part of the recovery which promotes healing and helps in the prevention of dry sockets. Once the bleeding slows down or stops, patients can remove the gauze. There may be some slight bleeding for up to 24 hours following the procedure. Patients should contact the office if they experience bleeding which gets worse or does not improve after a day.
Recovery
The recovery process can differ for patients based on various factors such as the complexity of the extraction. Most patients feel normal and have healed within a few days. They can then resume routine activities within two to three days. It will take the jawbone a few weeks to fully heal. Patients who are replacing the extracted tooth with a dental implant typically need to wait a few months to ensure the jawbone is fully recovered and healed.
Aftercare
Following the extraction, the dental team will provide patients with specific aftercare instructions which should be closely followed. General instructions to follow are summarized below.
- Clean: Maintain good oral hygiene to ensure the extraction site remains clean. The site should be rinsed with an antimicrobial mouthwash a few times daily. Do not brush on or around the extraction site until you receive approval from the dentist.
- Medications: Antibiotics and pain relievers may be prescribed by the dentist. Medications should be taken specifically as directed and prescribed. Most patients can manage any discomfort with an over-the-counter pain reliever.
- Rest: Avoid strenuous activity for the first 48 hours or more. An increased heart rate can dislodge the blood clot and cause complications. The dentist will advise when patients can resume exercise.
- Food: Hard, hot, and crunchy food should be avoided while the mouth heals. Soft foods such as yogurt, smoothies, Jell-O, applesauce should be consumed for the first few days while the mouth heals.
It is important to ensure these instructions and restrictions are closely followed to avoid complications and promote healing.
Patients who may require a tooth extraction should contact the office to schedule an appointment. The dentist can examine your mouth and determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure. This is a good opportunity to discuss questions and review the healing process.