An Aspen Dental patient opens his mouth for a dental exam.

What to expect with
a tooth extraction

Your Aspen Dental care team can guide you through the process so you know what to expect before, during and after your tooth extraction.

When teeth extractions are necessary

Your teeth are great natural tools. That's why your dentist will make every effort to preserve them. But, sometimes, removing a tooth is the best option for your oral health.. You may need a tooth extracted due to severe tooth decay or gum disease, an impacted wisdom tooth or an emergency, like when a tooth is fractured in an accident.
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Before your tooth extraction

Here’s what to do before having a tooth or teeth removed:

  • Give your dentist a list of any medications or supplements you’re taking.

  • Learn about your options for minimizing pain during and after the tooth extraction.

  • Stock up on liquids and soft, nutritious foods to eat.

  • If you are being sedated during your procedure, arrange to have someone take you to and from your appointment.

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The day of your dental extraction

Your dentist will numb the surrounding area of the affected tooth. Next, they will gently extract the tooth and stitch the area, if needed. To help clot or slow bleeding, gently biting on gauze can help.

You’ll want to take any antibiotics or pain medications only as directed by your dentist.

Tooth extraction recovery

We’re here to help you through the recovery process. Here’s what to expect.

The first 24 hours:

Day 2:

Get plenty of rest and limit physical activity. Add other foods to your diet as tolerated.
Stick to a diet of liquids and soft foods.Chew on the opposite side of your mouth as the extraction. After a few days, gradually begin to chew on both sides.
Do not use a straw, smoke, or suck on candy or lollipops. The sucking motion can disturb the clot that is forming at the extraction site.Begin cleaning the teeth next to the extracted tooth site.
Avoid drinking hot liquids or alcohol or using mouthwash that contains alcohol.Gently rinse your mouth with saltwater after meals to help keep the healing tooth socket clean.
Apply an icepack or cold, damp washcloth to your face to help reduce swelling. Resist playing with the healing gum, which could disrupt the clot and cause a dry socket. A dry socket can cause severe pain and lead to other complications.
Do not brush the teeth near the extraction site but do clean the rest of your teeth as usual.

When to call your care team after tooth or teeth extractions

Call us immediately if you experience:

  • Fever, nausea or vomiting

  • Severe pain, swelling or bleeding

  • Pain that gets worse, instead of better

Caring for you throughout your tooth extraction

At Aspen Dental, we understand that you may have questions about your tooth extraction before, during and after your procedure. That’s why your team will be with you every step of the way to answer them for you with care that’s always in your corner.