Extractions
It is our goal, whenever possible to save teeth and prevent tooth loss or extraction. In some situations, however, tooth extraction is necessary. Some of these situations include teeth that are severely decayed or fractured, teeth with advance periodontal disease, impacted wisdom teeth and primary teeth (baby teeth) that are not falling out normally or are creating problems for the permanent teeth.
ATRAUMATIC EXTRACTION
Toledo Periodontics offers painless and gentle extractions using modern tools such as periotomes and proximators that will result in a less traumatic experience to our patients. It is also gentle on the tissue and the bone keeping the tissue intact in case there is a need for restoration such as with a dental implant. Our patients report that this method results in a speedy recovery and is the easiest extraction that they have experienced in combination with great efforts of sedation and a nice atmosphere. We strive to make your experience a pleasant one.
Your tooth will be carefully numbed, and nitrous oxide may be used to help you relax. If you have any concerns about dental anesthesia, please review “Anesthesia” options under the “Patient Information” tab.
Once we are certain you are completely numb and comfortable, the tooth is gently loosened with special instruments and carefully removed from the socket. If the tooth is not through the gums, as is often the case with wisdom teeth, as small incision is made to give access to the tooth so it can be loosened and removed. Some teeth have curved roots or are held tightly in the bone. In these instances it is sometimes necessary to cut the tooth into sections and carefully remove the tooth sections. The gum is then stitched in place and allowed to heal.
Post op instructions: After an extraction it is important to follow the instructions given to you. Generally, these instructions include:
To control bleeding, you will be given gauze squares to gently bite down on until a blood clot forms in the extraction site. Bite on this firmly for the first 30-60 minutes following the extraction. Once bleeding has subsided, it is not necessary to continue using the gauze squares. You may notice a small oozing of blood, which is normal for the first 24 hours and does not require special attention.
Place ice on the outside of the cheek to minimize swelling. Intervals of 20 minutes on and off for the first few hours after surgery greatly reduce pain and swelling.
Do not drink from a straw, spit or suck on hard candy for the first 24 hours after the extraction. This could interfere with the blood clot in the extraction site.
Soft foods are recommended for the first few days after surgery. Soups (warm—not hot), yogurt, cottage cheese and scrambled eggs are good quality foods that will provide nutrition while allowing the extraction site to heal undisturbed. Avoid hot, carbonated and alcoholic drinks for the first 24 hours. Avoid spicy food as well.
Do not smoke or use tobacco for at least 72 hours after surgery, as it interferes with healing. Better yet, use this three day period as a “jump start” to quit using tobacco products and improve your oral and overall health!
As the anesthetic wears off, take any prescribed pain medication as directed. You may begin to eat normally as soon as you feel comfortable doing so. Continue with your normal brushing and flossing routine for the rest of your mouth, with careful, gentle brushing around the extraction site for the first week.
After the first 24 hours, moist heat may be used to relieve any soreness or swelling. You can also gently rinse with warm salt water (one teaspoon of salt in an 8 ounce glass of water) two or three times a day for the first week.
CALL US IF:
You have heavy bleeding that will not subside with biting on the gauze squares. Also call us if your bleeding increases.
Pain or swelling that worsens or continues beyond the first 2-3 days.
You develop a fever.
You notice a bad taste or odor in the mouth.
You have a reaction to any prescribed medications.
We will arrange a follow-up appointment within 1-2 weeks after your extraction. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to call our office at (419) 882-1807