What is Tooth Extraction?
Tooth extraction is a dental procedure that involves the removal of a tooth from its socket. Tooth removal may be necessary for various reasons, including:
- Severe tooth decay (dental cavities)
- Gum disease (periodontal disease)
- Dental infections
- Tooth trauma, cracks, or fractures
- Impacted wisdom teeth
- Overcrowding (preparing for orthodontic treatment)
- Baby teeth not falling out naturally
Types of Tooth Extractions
Dentists categorize tooth extractions into two types:
- Simple Extraction: A procedure for teeth visible above the gums, typically removed in one piece with minimal intervention.
- Surgical Extraction: A more complex procedure requiring an oral surgeon to remove gum tissue, bone, or both. The tooth may need to be removed in sections.
Preparing for a Tooth Extraction
Before the procedure, you will have a consultation with Dr. Patel at Ascent Dental to review your dental health and medical history. We will evaluate your medications and may recommend adjustments.
Stopping Blood Thinners
If you are taking blood-thinning medications, they may increase bleeding during oral surgery. We will coordinate with your physician and review recent blood test results to determine whether adjustments are necessary.
Antibiotics Before Extraction
In some cases, Dr. Patel may prescribe antibiotics before the procedure, particularly for patients at risk of infective endocarditis, an infection of the heart. This includes individuals with:
- A prosthetic heart valve
- A history of cardiac valve repair with prosthetic material
- A cardiac transplant with valve abnormalities
- Certain congenital heart defects
- A history of infective endocarditis
What to Expect During Tooth Extraction
The tooth extraction procedure involves the following steps:
- Review medical history
- Discuss risks and benefits
- Administer local anesthesia to numb the area
- Extract the tooth
- Provide aftercare instructions
Post-Extraction Aftercare
Proper post-surgical care is essential for fast recovery and to prevent dry socket or infections.
Bleeding
- Mild bleeding is normal after tooth removal. Use sterilized gauze and bite down firmly for 20 minutes.
- If bleeding continues, try biting on a moist tea bag (caffeinated) for 15 minutes to promote clotting.
- Severe bleeding? Contact Ascent Dental immediately.
Swelling & Pain Management
- Use an ice pack on the external surface in 20-minute intervals for the first 24 hours.
- Take pain relievers as directed to manage discomfort and swelling.
Diet
- Stick to soft foods like yogurt, eggs, smoothies, and pasta for the first week.
- Avoid crunchy, spicy, or hard foods that could irritate the extraction site.
- Stay hydrated with plenty of water.
Oral Hygiene
- Do not brush the surgical site directly.
- Use an antibacterial mouth rinse or a warm salt water rinse to keep the area clean.
- Avoid vigorous swishing to prevent dislodging the blood clot.
Activity Restrictions
- Avoid exercise or heavy lifting for at least 48 hours post-surgery.
- Increased heart rate can lead to prolonged bleeding and swelling.
Contact Ascent Dental
If you experience persistent pain, excessive bleeding, or signs of infection, call Ascent Dental immediately for follow-up care.
📍 Ascent Dental
1674 Keller Pkwy, Ste 180
Keller, TX 76248
📞 817-677-9090