Reasons You May Need a Tooth Extraction
Dental surgery should be left in the hands of experienced Jacksonville dentists who perform oral surgery using the most advanced dental technology. Some of the most common reasons for tooth extraction include:
- Extra teeth (or baby teeth) that impede other teeth from erupting
- To prepare for orthodontics like SureSmile®
- Advanced periodontal (gum) disease that has loosened the roots of the teeth
- To remove a fractured tooth
- To remove tooth decay that cannot be resolved with other dental treatments
- To remove a malformed tooth
- Advanced periodontal (gum) disease that has loosened the roots of the teeth
- Extra teeth (or baby teeth) that impede other teeth from erupting
- To prepare for orthodontics like SureSmile®
- To remove a fractured tooth
- To remove a malformed tooth To remove tooth decay that cannot be resolved with other dental treatments
Tooth Extraction Process
We will take the necessary X-rays to determine which, if any, teeth need to be extracted. You will be given a local anesthetic so you will not feel pain during the extraction process. Then, your dentist will use a dental tool known as an “elevator” to lift the tooth and loosen ligaments and gum tissue around the tooth’s base. Finally, using a pair of forceps, we will rock the tooth back and forth gently until it breaks off from the surrounding ligaments, holding it in place in your gum tissue. Stubborn teeth that don’t come out easily may need to be broken down into smaller pieces for extraction.
After all bits of tooth are removed, we pack gauze into the tooth’s socket and have you bite down to press on the area. In some cases, stitches must be placed to close the socket. We then provide after-care instructions for you to take with you.
Post-Extraction Care Instructions
Each patient’s tooth extraction experience will vary depending on the number and complexity of the teeth being removed. Here are some general post-extraction care tips to help ensure a smooth recovery:
- For the first 24 hours, avoid rinsing your mouth.
- After the first day, gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water after every meal. Continue this for about one to two weeks.
- Brush your teeth gently, carefully avoiding the extraction site for a week or two.
- Thirty minutes after your extraction, you can remove the gauze and check the area. If you see bright red, dripping blood, place fresh gauze on the area and bite down for another 30 minutes. Repeat this as needed until the bleeding slows to slightly oozing and the blood darkens and clots. Remember, a mix of blood and saliva can appear like a lot of blood, but it’s usually just saliva.
- Refrain from smoking, spitting, drinking through a straw, or consuming carbonated beverages for three days after the surgery.
- Following these guidelines will help ensure a comfortable and speedy recovery. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact us.
Contact Us Today
If you need a tooth extraction in the Jacksonville, NC area, please call Family Comprehensive & Cosmetic Dentistry by calling (910) 353-5171. You may also fill out our online contact form, and one of our team members will contact you soon to schedule you or answer any questions you may have about tooth extractions or other dental procedures available at our practice.