There are many reasons why a patient may be in a position to have teeth removed. Removal may be done to:
- Remove problematic or unwanted wisdom teeth
- Prepare for the placement of full dentures
- Remove a tooth that has a large cavity or cannot be saved with endodontic treatment
- Prepare for upcoming orthodontic work, primarily to address overcrowding issues
There are two types of tooth removal methods, including simple and surgical. Simple tooth removal removes a tooth that has already erupted through the gumline. The tooth is quickly and easily wedged out of the natural jaw bone using special instruments by our dental staff. A surgical extraction requires the dentist to cut into the soft tissues of the mouth and access the tooth before it has erupted through the gumline. This is a more invasive procedure and requires longer healing times.
What should I do (and not do!) after tooth extraction?
Here are a few recommendations for proper healing and recovery.
Do:
- Allow for clotting to occur, as this facilitates faster healing and reduces the risk of dry socket.
- Get enough rest after treatment, elevating the head and avoiding exercise and other vigorous activities for a few days.
- Control swelling with ice packs on the face.
- Take any prescribed medications to reduce infection and control discomfort.
Don’t:
- Eat solid foods until advised, as this can impact necessary clot formation and be extremely painful.
- Smoke cigarettes, as this can increase the risk of dry socket and extend healing times.
- Avoid the dentist if problems arise or concerns develop, as this can impact recovery.
Schedule your appointment at New Smiles Dental today!
Sherwood, Oregon patients ready to work with a dental team that promotes good oral health and wellness, while offering a wide range of services under one roof, are invited to request a visit with the team at New Smiles Dental. Our practice is conveniently located at 17680 SW Handley, Ste. #1 and an appointment can be made with our front office team by calling (503) 925-9595.
