Everything You Need to Know About Tooth Extraction: Procedure and Recovery

If you have a severely decayed or cracked tooth, dental trauma, or dental crowding, you may need a tooth extraction. This involves removing a tooth from its socket in the jawbone, which can be done in a simple or surgical manner. Our guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of tooth extraction, tailored for dental patients in Australia, as well as what to do before and after the procedure.

Step 1: Numbing your tooth

The dentist will administer an anaesthetic injection to numb the tooth, gum tissue, and bone surrounding it. This is crucial for minimizing discomfort and pain during the tooth extraction procedure.

Step 2: Extraction of the tooth

The dentist will use extraction forceps and elevators to remove the tooth from the socket. If the tooth is deep-rooted, they may need to perform an adult tooth removal procedure. In some cases, bone fragments or spurs may be present and need to be removed as well. You may feel some pressure, but you should not feel any pain.

Step 3: Closing the space vacated by the tooth

After the tooth is removed, the dentist will clean the area to ensure all bone fragments and spurs are removed. They will also close the gum tissue to prevent infection and stop bleeding, which may require stitches. If bone fragments remain, they may cause discomfort and irritation that can be alleviated with medication or removal in a subsequent appointment.

Step 4: Controlling bleeding

The dentist will place gauze over the site of the tooth extraction and ask you to bite down on it to create firm pressure, which will control bleeding. You may need to retain the firm pressure on the bite for about an hour. After the gauze is removed, some bleeding is normal, and the dentist may advise you to bite on a damp tea bag for 30 minutes to help with clotting.

Step 5: Minimising the swelling

The dentist may give you an ice pack to place on your cheek to reduce swelling and inflammation. You can apply it for up to 20 minutes at a time, with 20-minute intervals for the first 24 hours after the tooth extraction.

Step 6: Post-extraction care

After tooth extraction, you’ll need to take care of the site to ensure proper healing. This includes taking medication as prescribed to minimize discomfort and reduce the risk of infection, avoiding smoking or using straws, and eating soft foods. Rinse your mouth gently with warm salt water starting the day after the extraction, and brush and floss the rest of your teeth carefully. If you experience any pain, bone fragments, or spurs, contact your dentist immediately to schedule a follow-up appointment.

When to Seek Dental Extraction Near Me

If you experience persistent pain or swelling, excessive bleeding, or bone fragments or spurs, contact your dentist immediately. They may need to perform a deep root tooth extraction or remove additional bone fragments.

With proper care and attention, you can make a full and speedy recovery after a tooth extraction procedure. Our professional dental team at Simply Dental Chatswood can help guide you through the process and ensure the best possible outcome for your oral health.

We also have a team of experienced dentists in Willoughby to serve you.

Share:

Comments are closed.