As dentists it’s our mission to help preserve your teeth for as long as possible, we will exhaust all possible solutions to save your teeth. However, sometimes it’s in the best interest for your health to have a tooth extracted. When an extraction is needed, we are here to keep you comfortable and ensure that the future of your oral and overall health is the top priority.
Extracting a tooth is a common dental procedure performed with great caution and precision either in our practice or a referral to a specialist when deemed necessary.
A tooth extraction should not be painful as you will be heavily numbed. You may feel pushing and pressure and even hear some strange noises, but never any pain.
When is a tooth extraction necessary?
– If the tooth has unrepairable damage, meaning it can’t be saved from a filling, root canal or a crown.
– If your tooth has an internal crack or fracture that can’t be repaired
– If there is extensive decay, infection, or tooth mobility
– Problematic wisdom teeth
– Removal of teeth for orthodontic reasons eg crowding
– Over retained baby teeth (teeth that need a helping hand to remove due to the eruption position of the adult tooth)
“Damaged teeth can usually be treated when addressed promptly, left untreated can lead to infection or periodontal disease. If you are experiencing any dental problems, call to make an appointment today 07 5520 2277”.
Post extraction care
– You can put ice packs on your face to reduce swelling. Alternate 20 minute on and 20 minutes off.
– Eat soft and cool foods for a few days.
– Take painkillers as instructed by your dentist, if required
– Starting 24 hours after an extraction, gently gargle warm salt water. Use one-half teaspoon of salt in a cup of water.
– You should NOT smoke, USE a straw, or spit after surgery. These actions can pull the blood clot out of the hole where the tooth was.
– Avoid hot foods and drinks
– Avoid any strenuous activities straight after an extraction
– Prop yourself up with an extra pillow for the first night
– Some bleeding is normal post extraction, if required, place a fresh piece of folded sterile gauze given at the appt, put where the tooth is missing & apply pressure for 30 min. If the bleeding doesn’t eventually subside, please call the surgery to get advice or make a post operative check. (If you are concerned after hours, please go to the hospital emergency department)