Extraction is the removal of dentition. There can be many factors that contribute to the need for a tooth to be extracted, and our dentist will ensure that you have all of the information that you need to make an informed decision on your treatment.
Most extractions can take place in practice, using a local anaesthetic, however in some cases we may need to refer the patient to have to tooth removed by an oral surgeon. An oral surgeon has more experience in removing teeth that may be harder to reach or more complicated to remove. In some cases, general anaesthetic maybe needed.
Post-Operative Care Instructions After Having a Tooth Extracted:
Your Dentist will place a gauze for you to bite down on after the extraction, you will need to bite down on this gauze until the bleeding has stopped completely. They will also supply an extra gauze, encase the bleeding re-starts.
Some reasons for extraction are:
– Severe tooth decay
– Gum disease (Periodontal disease)
– A broken or fractured tooth that cannot be repaired
– An infection/abscess
– Failed Root Canal treatment
– Crowded teeth
– Impacted Wisdom teeth
Extraction Guidance
- Avoid exertion such as heavy lifting/going to the gym, for the rest of today.
- Avoid smoking or drinking of alcohol for at least 24 hours after your extraction, as this can delay healing.
- Avoid rinsing/spitting out/disturbing the socket, as the bleeding may start again.
- Avoid eating for 3 hours after your extraction. You can then eat soft foods using the other side of your mouth (if appropriate) e.g pasta
When the Anaesthetic wears off you may feel some discomfort. You can take pain killers such as Paracetamol and Ibuprofen (avoid if allergic to any of these).
*Avoid aspirin as this may encourage bleeding again. If you are receiving aspirin for a medical condition then please continue to take this as you normally would do.
What To Do If Bleeding Starts Again:
- Roll up some of the gauze bandage (provided), place it on top of the bleeding socket, and bite down firmly on the bandage for 15-20mins.
- If the wound still continues to ooze, repeat the above. If you’ve done this three times and it is still oozing blood, contact your Dentist or dial 111 for advice.
- If you run out of gauze, you can use a clean cotton rag/tea towel/kitchen paper. DO NOT use cotton wool as this will get stuck in the socket.
- You can eat normal hard foods.
- Start using hot, salty mouthwash as a gentle rinse every time after you eat. This will help prevent wound infection. To make it – Boil some water, let it cool to a comfortable hot temperature, dissolve 1-2 tsp salt in a mug/glass of this hot water and rinse your mouth with it.
If after 3 days, the pain doesn’t get better/becomes worse, contact your Dentist and make an appointment to be seen.
If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact the dental practice.
