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Tooth Extraction

Tooth Extraction

Modern & gentle tooth extractions
Removing a tooth is always a last resort, but doing so may be necessary when dealing with severe decay, infection, or a tooth with a poor prognosis.
Whether you’re currently in pain and need an emergency extraction, you need a wisdom tooth removed, or you’ve been told you need a tooth removed and want a second opinion, we’re here to help.

When is a tooth extraction necessary?
A professional diagnosis is always needed to ensure that an extraction really is the best option for your dental health and future. Removing your tooth may be recommended if:
Wisdom teeth are causing or will cause overcrowding and/or pain
When decay or damage has made the tooth impossible to restore
Bone loss has occurred because of an oral infection

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POST-OPERATIVE INSTRUCTIONS

After tooth extraction, it’s important for a blood clot to form to stop the bleeding and begin the healing process. Bite on a gauze pad for 30 to 45 minutes immediately after the appointment. If the bleeding or oozing persists, place another gauze pad and bite firmly for another 30 minutes. You may have to do this several times to staunch the flow of blood.
After the blood clot forms, it is important not to disturb or dislodge the clot. Do not rinse vigorously, suck on straws, smoke, drink alcohol or chew on food next to the extraction site for 72 hours. These activities may dislodge or dissolve the clot and hinder the healing process. Limit vigorous exercise for the next 24 hours, as this increases blood pressure and may cause more bleeding from the extraction site.

AFTER YOUR APPOINTMENT

  1. After the tooth is extracted you may feel some pain and experience some swelling. An ice pack or an unopened bag of frozen peas or corn applied to the area will keep swelling to a minimum. Take pain medications as prescribed. The swelling usually subsides after 48 hours.
  2. Use pain medication as directed.
  3. Call our office if the medication doesn’t seem to be working. If antibiotics are prescribed, continue to take them for the indicated length of time even if signs and symptoms of infection are gone.
  4. Drink lots of fluids and eat nutritious, soft food on the day of the extraction. You can eat normally as soon as you are comfortable. It is important to resume your normal dental routine, including brushing and flossing. This will speed up healing and help keep your mouth fresh and clean.
  5. After a few days you should feel fine, and be able to resume your normal activities. If you have heavy bleeding, severe pain, continued swelling for two to three days, or a reaction to the medication, call our Williamsburg office immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

We’ll help you know what to expect and provide specific aftercare instructions for you. In general, expect to take it easy and eat carefully for 2-3 days after an extraction.

Eat soft food and liquids for 24 hours after an extraction. Avoid hard, sharp, and sticky foods until you are fully healed.

Our team will ensure you are numb and comfortable during the procedure. After the extraction, we may prescribe medications to manage any discomfort or infection.

Every person is unique. If your wisdom teeth aren’t causing any problems, then there’s usually no reason to have them removed. If your wisdom teeth are causing problems, we’ll recommend removing them as soon as possible. Especially for teenagers, getting wisdom teeth extracted is a proactive way to prevent painful impaction, gum inflammation, and other issues in the future.