What Comes After a Tooth Extraction

Tooth extraction can be frightening, but it is often necessary in order to keep a healthy mouth. There are a few important things to note about what comes after a tooth extraction, whether it be recovery or replacing the extracted tooth. 

In this article, we go over tooth extractions and what comes afterward. If you have an upcoming tooth extraction, then you may find it helpful to be aware of what to expect. At the office of Dr. Shannon H. McCarthy, you do not need to be fearful. We offer many different dental sedation options including Nitrous Oxide/ laughing gas, oral conscious sedation as well as IV sedation. When a decision is made to have a tooth extracted it is important that the procedure is completed by a skilled dentist and one who is trained to be a biologic dentist as well. Doctor McCarthy has trained extensively in oral surgical procedures and is properly equipped to perform your dental extraction in a gentle and skilled manner.

Tooth Extraction

Wondering what to expect during and  after your tooth is pulled? Read on to find out more!

Procedure

Doctor McCarthy will review your medical history to make sure that it is safe to have the extraction. Evaluation may include your past medical history, medications, allergies, blood pressure and any history of trouble with extractions in the past. It may be suggested to have some laboratory tests including Vitamin D levels which may influence your healing response.

After consent is given for the procedure, topical anesthetic will be placed to minimize any discomfort from the anesthetic. We use anesthetic without a vasoconstrictor and make sure the patient is comfortable and numb before proceeding. Using special dental instruments, the tooth is removed and the periodontal ligament is thoroughly removed using hand instruments or piezo electrics, which ensures a more thorough removal of remnants of tissue and bacteria. Ozonated gas is delivered to the site and patient’s stem cells called PRF/PRP are placed in the extraction site to encourage a sterile environment which may heal. Sometimes, the patient’s own tooth is ground and demineralized and reintroduced into the spot to encourage bone growth. The area is sometimes closed with sutures.

Recovery

Once a tooth extraction is complete, it is likely that a day or so should be taken to recover.  Most often, recovery is not too intense because a tooth extraction is done as gently as possible and the use of your own body products are placed to promote healing.

Recovering should involve cold compresses to bring down any swelling or irritation. Over-the-counter medications may also be taken to soothe any discomfort surrounding the area near the extracted tooth. Vitamin supplementation with Vitamin D and Vitamin C is suggested as well. 

A liquid diet or one that involves soft foods may be best to adapt to according to the Doctor’s guidance. The area surrounding the extracted tooth may be tender or sensitive, so it is best to not chew on the side where the tooth was pulled until further directed. It is also important to avoid smoking and to not use a straw, avoid rinsing, spitting or gargling in effort to not dislodge the clot or disturb the sutures.

Follow-up dentist appointment

After a tooth extraction is over, it is best to follow up with Doctor McCarthy. When a tooth is missing, the gums are more susceptible to infection and disease. It is necessary to see the dentist to have them examine the gums and surrounding teeth. She can take care of any abnormalities, as well as get the tooth replacement process started.

Tooth replacement options

Many people who have to have a tooth extraction will probably start considering the idea of replacing their teeth. A dentist will work to come up with tooth replacement options for someone looking to replace their extracted tooth.

Common replacement options include dental implants, dentures, bridges and even implant-supported dentures, which is a hybrid option. Having a tooth extracted can be frightening, but the hope of tooth replacement can help make the process easier.

Contact us today

Many people fear to have a tooth extracted, but it is important to remember that dentists only have your best interest at heart. Your dental and oral health can often benefit from extraction. If you have any fears or concerns, it is best to discuss them with your dentist before the procedure.

If you have questions about what happens after a tooth extraction, then you can give us a call. Our team of dentists would be happy to help you before, during and after your extraction. Give us a call or stop by our office today! We are here to help you in any way we can.

Request an appointment here: https://doctormccarthy.com or call Shannon H. McCarthy DDS at (716) 689-8882 for an appointment in our Williamsville office.