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.
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.
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. Stick to a diet of liquids and soft foods. 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. Avoid drinking hot liquids or alcohol or using mouthwash that contains alcohol. Apply an icepack or cold, damp washcloth to your face to help reduce swelling. Do not brush the teeth near the extraction site but do clean the rest of your teeth as usual. | Add other foods to your diet as tolerated. Chew on the opposite side of your mouth as the extraction. After a few days, gradually begin to chew on both sides. Begin cleaning the teeth next to the extracted tooth site. Gently rinse your mouth with saltwater after meals to help keep the healing tooth socket clean. 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. |
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
