Tooth Extractions in Chatham MA

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.

Post Operative Surgery Instructions

1. Bite on the gauze for one hour. If there is still bleeding after the first gauze, bite on a fresh gauze (provided) for one hour. Only if there is still some bleeding, moisten a tea bag in cool water and gently bite on it for as long as possible (ideally for one to twelve hours)
2. For an hour immediately following surgery, hold an ice pack on your face in the area of surgery, alternating 20 minutes on, 10 minutes off. This will help to reduce any swelling. DO NOT USE HOT PACKS.
3. The surgical site may bleed slightly for several hours after surgery. When blood becomes mixed with saliva it can give the impression of excessive bleeding. Don’t be alarmed! Keep biting gently on the tea bag until the bleeding stops. If excessive bleeding continues, report to Dr. Sporborg for further treatment. 
4. The anesthetic may last anywhere from three to twelve hours. Moderate pain may be expected after it has worn off. To manage any post-operative discomfort, Dr. Sporborg recommends taking 2 Tylenol with 2 Advil (if not allergic to one or the other) every 4 hours. If this does not alleviate your discomfort, please contact Dr. Sporborg. Be sure to follow ay prescription instructions carefully. 
5. Do not drink hot liquids on the day of surgery. Do not smoke on the day of the surgery. Do not use a straw for drinking or explore the surgical area with your tongue. Avoid physical exercise the day of surgery. 
6. On the day following the surgery, rinse your mouth with warm water and salt four or five times a day (one teaspoon of salt in an eight-ounce glass of water). Continue for two to three days. Use the irrigating syringe (if provided) to clean the surgical area. 
7. Report back promptly for any abnormal condition that may cause concern.

Do I have a Dry Socket?

A 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 a dry socket. A dry socket manifests itself with a dull throbbing pain, which doesn’t appear until three to four days after the extraction. It may cause a bad taste or bad breath. The extraction site will also appear dry. 

If you develop a dry socket, Dr. Sporborg will apply a medicated dressing to the dry socket to soothe the pain. 

If you have any concerns following your surgery, please contact Dr. Sporborg at Hamilton M. Sporborg, DDS Phone Number (508) 945-0900