Extractions / Oral Surgery

You may need a tooth extraction for various reasons, such as severe decay, advanced gum disease, or unrepairable fractures. Impacted or poorly positioned teeth sometimes also require removal to enable orthodontic treatment.

While extracting a single tooth can impair chewing, cause jaw joint issues, and shift other teeth, leading to major dental health impacts, your dentist will usually discuss alternatives and replacing the extracted tooth to prevent these complications.

After Tooth Extraction

After a tooth extraction, it's crucial to allow a blood clot to form to stop bleeding and start healing. Firmly bite on the gauze pad for 30-45 minutes right after your appointment. If bleeding continues, use a fresh gauze pad and bite down for another 30 minutes. You may need to repeat this several times to stop the blood flow.

Once the clot forms, avoid dislodging or dissolving it for 72 hours. Do not rinse forcefully, use straws, smoke, drink alcohol, or brush next to the extraction site. These can disturb or eliminate the clot, delaying healing. Also avoid strenuous exercise for 24 hours, as this can increase bleeding.

You may feel some pain and notice swelling after the extraction. Applying an ice pack or frozen bag of peas/corn will minimize swelling. Take pain medications as prescribed. Swelling usually goes down after 48 hours.

Take pain medication as directed and call us if it's ineffective. If prescribed antibiotics, continue the full course even if infection signs are gone. Drink plenty of fluids and eat soft, nutritious foods on the day of the extraction. Resume your normal diet when comfortable.

It's important to resume your regular dental routine after 24 hours, brushing and flossing at least daily to speed healing and keep your mouth clean and fresh.

You should feel normal and can resume regular activities after a few days. Contact our office immediately if you experience heavy bleeding, severe pain, swelling lasting 2-3 days, or medication reactions.