Gentle Extractions with Dr. Cooper and Dr. Pham
We’ll always do everything in our power to prevent it, but there are certain situations when the safest option is to remove your tooth. Common reasons for an extraction include:
- Extensive damage from decay
- Severe trauma caused by an accident or blow to the head
- A primary tooth that fails to erupt in your gumline
- An impacted wisdom tooth
To perform an extraction, Dr. Cooper or Dr. Pham will make a small incision in your gums and remove the tooth, then stitch the area back up to begin the healing process. Rest assured, he’ll prioritize your comfort and safety throughout the procedure.
Once your tooth is removed, he’ll discuss restoration options to fill the gap in your smile. To receive maximum benefits for your health and appearance, we recommend dental implants. They’re the only natural-looking, permanent replacement for missing teeth.
Wisdom Tooth Removal
When your wisdom teeth fail to erupt properly in your gumline, they become impacted. This can lead to a variety of symptoms including pain in your gums and jawbone, headaches, and bleeding gums.
If you have one or more impacted wisdom teeth, they’ll need to be removed for the sake of your long-term health. we’ll administer a local anesthetic to your gums before the procedure to ensure you don’t feel any pain.
You may experience some soreness and discomfort after the extraction, but this will dissipate within a few days. Your dentist will also prescribe painkillers to help keep you comfortable during the recovery period.
Aftercare Tips
After you have a tooth removed, it’s crucial to follow all of your dentist’s instructions if you want to avoid complications. Some of the most important to keep in mind are:
- Avoid any type of forceful spitting or suction, such as drinking through a straw
- Apply an ice pack to your cheeks to minimize swelling
- Avoid physical activity and stick to soft foods for the first few days
- Take your pain medication as prescribed
- Rinse your mouth with warm salt water 5-6 times per day starting the day after your surgery
Potential Complications
When you have a tooth removed, there are a few potential complications that can arise. Some of the most common are:
- Nerve Injury — Though it’s highly unusual, it’s possible to suffer nerve damage during a tooth extraction. If you feel any tingling in your gums after the procedure, call us right away.
- Infection — If you experience severe pain or swelling around your extraction site, you may have developed an infection. Apply ice and take painkillers until you’re able to visit Dr. Cooper and Dr. Pham for antibiotics.
- Dry Socket — If the blood clot in your gums breaks open, it leaves your underlying nerves and tissues exposed, causing a painful condition known as dry socket. To avoid this and other complications, be sure to follow your aftercare instructions carefully.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a tooth extraction take?
The treatment typically takes about 30-45 minutes, depending on the amount of teeth you need removed.
What do I do after a tooth extraction?
To ensure a successful recovery, follow your aftercare instructions from Dr. Cooper and Dr. Pham. Don’t hesitate to call us if you have any questions.
How long do I have to wait after an extraction before eating?
You can eat after your extraction site stops bleeding and the gauze pad is removed, typically 30 minutes to an hour after surgery. To avoid setting back the healing process, stick to soft foods for at least a few days.
How long do I have to wait after an extraction before smoking?
To prevent dry socket and other complications from occurring, wait at least 48 hours after your procedure before smoking.
How long does it take to recover from an extraction?
Most patients are fully healed within seven to ten days.
What do I do if my extraction site gets infected?
If you experience pain or swelling around your extraction site, contact our practice immediately so we can prescribe antibiotics.
Is tooth extraction painful?
We’ll numb the area around your tooth before the procedure to ensure your treatment is painless. In some cases, such as having multiple wisdom teeth removed, you may receive sedation to help you relax.
Should I feel pain after a tooth extraction?
It’s normal to feel some discomfort for the first few days after an extraction. However, this should fade within a few days and you’ll be given medications to help you stay comfortable.
Can an extraction cause other teeth to hurt?
Your gums will feel sensitive after an extraction, so it’s possible that the area around your surrounding teeth will become sore. To prevent the inflammation from spreading through your mouth, apply an ice pack to your cheeks several times per day.
Visit Contemporary Dental Arts for Safe Tooth Removal
If you have a tooth that needs to be removed, call our practice at (408) 253-4150 and schedule a consultation with Dr. Pham and Dr. Pham. No matter the issue with your tooth, he’ll provide the treatment you need to protect your oral health for many years to come.
