Tooth Extractions
It may be determined that you need a tooth extraction for any number of reasons. Some teeth are extracted because they are severely decayed; others may have advanced periodontal disease, or have broken in a way that cannot be repaired. Other teeth may need removal because they are poorly positioned in the mouth (such as impacted teeth), or in preparation for orthodontic treatment.
The removal of a tooth can lead to problems related to your chewing ability, problems with your jaw joint, and shifting teeth, all of which can have a major impact on your dental health. To avoid these complications, in most cases, Dr. Sporborg will discuss alternatives to extractions as well replacement of the extracted tooth.
IV Sedation
Many of our patients ask how they can feel more comfortable with their dental appointments. We do offer IV sedation which is closely monitored throughout your procedure by Dr. Sporborg and his trained staff. You will be awake but relaxed during your procedure. For patients requesting IV sedation we ask that you not eat 6 hours prior to your appointment and have a driver to take you home afterwords.
The Extraction Process
At the time of extraction Dr Sporborg will numb your tooth, jawbone and gums that surround the area with a local anesthetic.
During the extraction procedure you will feel pressure, but absolutely no pain. The anesthetic numbs the nerves, stopping the transference of pain, yet the nerves that transmit pressure are not profoundly affected.
If you do feel pain at any time during the extraction please let us know right away, we will stop immediately and resolve the issue.
Sectioning a tooth
Some teeth require sectioning. This is a very common procedure done when a tooth is firmly anchored in its socket or the root is curved and the socket can’t expand enough to remove it. The doctor simply cuts the tooth into sections then removes each section one at a time. This process significantly reduces trauma and post-operative discomfort.
After Extraction Home Care
Bleeding
Some bleeding may occur. Placing a piece of gauze over the empty tooth socket and biting down firmly for 60 minutes can control this.
Blood clots that form in the empty socket.
This is an important part of the healing process and you must be careful not to dislodge the clot.
- Avoid rinsing or spitting for 24 hours after the extraction.
- Avoid use of a straw, smoking or hot liquids.
Swelling
If swelling occurs you can place ice on your face for 10 minutes and off for 20 minutes. Repeat this cycle as you feel necessary for up to 24 hours.
Pain and Medications
If you experience pain you may use non-prescription pain relief medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. If this is not adequate a prescription may be needed to alleviate discomfort.
Eating
For most extractions just make sure you do your chewing away from the extraction site. Stay away from hot liquids and alcoholic beverages for 24 hours.
Brushing and Cleaning
After the extraction avoid brushing near the extraction site for one day. After that you can resume gentle cleaning on the teeth surrounding the socket. Avoid commercial mouth rinses, as they tend to irritate the site. Beginning 24 hours after the extraction you can rinse with salt water (1/2 teaspoon in a cup of water) after meals and before bed.
Dry Socket
Dry socket occurs when a blood clot fails to form in the socket where the tooth has been extracted or the clot has been dislodged, and the healing is significantly delayed.
Following the post extraction instructions will reduce the chances of developing dry socket. Dry sockets manifest themselves as a dull throbbing pain, which doesn’t appear until three or four days after the extraction. It may cause a bad taste or bad breath and the extraction site will appear dry.
If you develop dry socket, Dr. Sporborg will apply a medicated dressing to the dry socket to sooth the pain.