Tooth Extraction
Tooth Extraction
- 45 minutes or less
We want to do everything we can to keep your natural teeth as healthy as can be and in your mouth. However, there are times when a tooth restoration isn’t possible. In those cases, it may be time to consider a tooth extraction: pulling a tooth.
Why You Might Need a Tooth Extraction
There could be many reasons you might need to have a tooth pulled:
- Tooth pain
- Overcrowded teeth
- Loss of bone or gum support due to gum disease
- Impacted wisdom teeth
- Severe tooth decay
- Irreparable tooth
- Baby tooth that hasn’t fallen out
Wisdom Teeth Removal
Most people have their wisdom teeth removed at some point in their lives, usually in their 20s. This is because most jaws comfortably fit 28 teeth, all of which come in before wisdom teeth. When wisdom teeth come in, adding two more teeth to the top and two more to the bottom of your mouth, things get crowded. We’ll work with you to determine how to proceed. Some people need all four teeth removed, others need only one or two removed, and others don’t need to have their wisdom teeth removed at all.
Signs You Might Need a Tooth Pulled
Tooth extraction is not the first thing we want to do if you’re having issues, but it’s important for you to be honest about anything you’re feeling. If you have pain while eating, jaw pain (especially severe pain), notice swollen gums or have gum disease, talk to us. We may be able to fix the issues without removing your tooth.
Tooth Extraction FAQs
First, we’ll talk to you regarding the process and answer any questions you may have. There’s no need to be nervous or apprehensive about the procedure, but we understand those feelings may be unavoidable and will make sure you’re as comfortable as possible.
During the actual procedure, you will be numb and won’t feel any pain, however you may feel some pressure while the tooth is being removed. Sometimes, we may need to suture the area, but the stitches will dissolve in a few days.
Having a tooth extracted requires some healing, but you can speed that up by taking good care of your mouth.
- Bite on gauze to help form a blood clot
- Take over-the-counter pain medications as directed
- Use a cold compress to reduce swelling, applying the cold for 10 minutes and removing for five, repeating as needed
- Get enough rest
- Eat a soft diet of healthy foods
- Brush your teeth gently
- Keep the tooth-removal site clean
To speed healing, don’t drink through a straw, drink hot liquids or smoke.
Immediately following a tooth extraction, there are several potential issues. If you feel pain after the anesthesia wears off, that’s normal. If you have some swelling and bleeding during the first day after removal, that’s also normal. However, if you experience any of the following, call us right away:
- Signs of infection
- Fever or chills
- Nausea or vomiting
- Redness, swelling or discharge
- Cough, shortness of breath or chest pain
We’re Ready to Help You
At Cajon Dental, everything we do is centered on you, your health and your experience.