A dentist or oral surgeon usually performs tooth extraction. Still, other medical professionals, such as an oral surgeon, can sometimes do it. Although tooth extraction is often a routine procedure, it is done when necessary. The primary goal of most dental offices is it preserve your natural teeth. However, there are times when the dentist may recommend tooth extraction in Peoria, and this includes:
Some of your teeth are being removed and replaced with dentures or other prosthetic replacements if you’re undergoing an extraction. The procedure itself isn’t harmful; however, discomfort may be associated with it because of the change in how your mouth looks and feels after surgery.
The dentist in Peoria, AZ, may perform either simple or surgical procedures depending on the visibility of the teeth. If the teeth are above the gums, the dentist will do a simple extraction that involves pulling the teeth with forceps. The surgical extraction is done for impacted teeth and involves opening the gums to access the teeth.
Tooth removal aftercare and recovery depend on how you care for your teeth.
Keep the affected area clean and dry.
The first step to caring for your mouth after a tooth extraction is keeping the affected area clean and dry. Clean your teeth twice daily, but don’t rinse with mouthwash or eat or drink anything until the bleeding stops. This will help prevent infection in the affected area by keeping bacteria away from it.
Smoking cigarettes may also lead to bad breath and halitosis. Try not to smoke before, during, and after the treatment, as it can irritate the gums and affect gum healing. Also, avoid chewing hard foods like steak or raw meat until after three days—this can irritate if not avoided carefully!
Treat pain and swelling with an ice pack.
To help relieve pain and swelling, you can use an ice pack for 15 to 20 minutes at a time. This treatment should be used for the first 48 hours after the procedure, but it can also be useful when you wake up in the middle of the night with a sore jaw or teeth.
Ice reduces swelling by constricting blood vessels and reducing inflammation. It’s best not to apply the ice directly to your skin because this could cause frostbite if left on too long or too close together. You should also avoid using an electric blanket as it may contain chemicals that could irritate your skin further if left on too long (the same goes for heating pads). The pain and swelling should clear within a few days, but visit a dental office near you if the pain is severe.
Avoid using straws for a few days.
Do not use a straw for a few days after tooth extraction. After the extraction process, a blood clot will form to facilitate healing. Using s straw can dislodge or break the clot, which can cause dry mouth, and bad taste and lengthen the healing process. Use a glass or cup instead, but avoid the surgical area until your first post-operative visit with your Peoria dentist.
After your tooth extraction, do not eat hard foods for a couple of days is important. This is because the force of chewing can damage the newly formed socket and gums.
In addition to avoiding hard foods, you’ll want to make sure that your diet is soft and gentle on your mouth. Try eating smaller portions first, so you don’t overdo it and end up with an upset stomach or other digestive issues.
Following your dentist’s instructions will hasten the recovery period. Visit Westbrook Village Dental for more information on how to hasten the recovery procedure.