A dentist’s first priority is to help restore, save and repair your natural teeth. However, sometimes a tooth needs to be removed due to decay, disease or trauma. Having a tooth removed or “pulled” is called a tooth extraction. Before the extraction, you will be given an anesthetic to reduce your discomfort. Your mouth will remain numb for a few hours after the extraction. While your mouth is numb, you’ll want to be careful not to bite your cheek, lip or tongue.
EXTRACTION TYPES
- A simple extraction – this procedure is on a tooth that can be seen in the mouth.
- A surgical extraction – this procedure, which is used if a tooth may have broken off at the gum line or has not erupted in the mouth. Usually performed by a oral surgeon who will make a small incision into your gum to surgically remove the broke.** You may have intravenous (IV) anesthesia, which can range from conscious sedation to general anesthesia. If so, your doctor will have give you instructions to follow. Healthy Smile offers light sedation, Nitrous( laughing gas), and for those who require treatment under general anesthesia, Dr. Ona is credentialed at Spectrum Health.
POST OP INSTRUCTIONS
After the extraction, do not eat any foods that require chewing while your mouth is numb. The numbness should go away within a few hours. If it doesn’t, contact your dentist. If you’re prescribed medicine to control pain and inflammation, or to prevent infection, use it only as directed. After a tooth is removed, you may have some discomfort and notice some swelling. This is normal. To help reduce swelling and pain, try applying an ice bag or cold, moist cloth to your face. Your dentist may give you specific instructions on how long and how often to use a cold compress. If you have any questions or concerns feel free to always contact the office.