6 Things You Must Know Before Tooth Extraction

In the realms of dentistry, tooth extraction is the most common yet the most feared procedure. If you have a broken or damaged tooth due to tooth decay, the dentist will first try to fix it with a crown filling or some other treatment option. Sometimes, the condition of the tooth damage is beyond repair. In such circumstances, the only suggested option of treatment is tooth extraction. Tooth extractions are only suggested when it becomes absolutely necessary.

1) It’s Not Dangerous

Many people have this misconception that tooth extractions are dangerous and can aggravate dental complications. Dentists use local anesthesia and sophisticated tools that make the procedure pain-free and quick. Tooth extraction is the best option to get rid of a decayed and infected tooth and protect the gums from further infections.

2) Preparation is Required

The dental surgeon will need an X-ray of the affected area to decide and analyze how to remove the infected tooth. You need to provide details of your medical history and the medications you take if any. If the infected tooth is your wisdom tooth, a panoramic X-ray is required.

3) Maintain Oral Hygiene

Maintaining good oral hygiene is extremely important before any tooth extraction. Gently brush your teeth the night before your surgery and on the day of the extraction. Do not tamper with the surgical areas. You can also rinse with mouthwash or saltwater 24 hours after the surgery in case there is less bleeding observed. This can be done at least 2-3 times a day after having any meals.

4) Abstain from Smoking

Cigarettes contain nicotine and over 5000 other chemicals that are detrimental to your oral health. They also contain tooth staining properties. Smoking increases the risk of infection and tooth decay. Smoking should be avoided before the tooth extraction surgery and at least for a week after the tooth is extracted.

5) Taking Care of the Swelling

It’s natural that you will feel some discomfort after the surgery. You will have to apply ice-packs externally at an interval of every 20 minutes after the surgery is done to reduce any bruising and swelling. If the pain is too much before the extraction, your dentist may also advise you to use warm, moist cotton press rather than ice on the infected tooth.

6) Taking Care of the Bleeding

After the surgery, it’s possible you might experience some bleeding. Dentists will advise you to keep a gauze pad over the surgical area for at least half an hour. An alternative option can be using a moist tea-bag over the pain area for half an hour. This is beneficial because tea has tannic acid that contacts the bleeding vessels, aiding any blood clots that have formed around the extracted area.

If you are having a broken tooth or battling tooth decay, you need to book an appointment at the Emergency Dental Care Clinic and get your tooth situation solved.