Tooth Extraction
Our role as dentists is to preserve and protect all of your teeth for as long as possible with preventive and restorative dentistry. But in some cases, if we have exhausted all options to save the tooth, removing it may be the healthiest and safest option.
At Los Gatos Family Dentistry, we understand that the prospect of tooth extraction can be daunting. Rest assured that our dental team will do everything possible to ensure that your procedure is stress-free and as comfortable as possible.
Common Reasons for Tooth Extraction
We don’t ever take the removal of a tooth lightly and will only do so when the tooth becomes unrepairable or threatens your overall oral health. Some common reasons Dr. Phan might recommend tooth extraction at our Los Gatos dental office are:
- A tooth is too decayed for a crown or filling
- A tooth has already has been filled several times
- A tooth has broken off below the gum line
- An infected tooth can’t be saved with a root canal
- A tooth is stuck or impacted in the gums
- Teeth need to be removed to prepare for dentures
If we determine that you need to have a tooth extraction, Dr. Phan will show you digital x-rays and intraoral photos so you can see the problem yourself. She will explain why she recommends it and how the procedure will benefit your long-term oral health.
Simple and Surgical Tooth Extractions
With a tooth extraction, we remove the damaged tooth from its socket in the jaw bone. There are two types of tooth extractions we offer or Los Gatos patients, and the one we choose depends on the condition of the tooth we need to remove:
- Simple extraction: If the tooth can still be seen in the mouth above the gum line, we can perform a simple extraction in which Dr. Phan loosens the tooth and then lifts it out with forceps.
- Surgical extraction: If the tooth has broken off below the gum line or never erupted, such as in the case of an impacted wisdom tooth, a surgical extraction is necessary. Dr. Phan must make an incision to remove the tooth, which is why the procedure is considered surgical in nature.
After the extraction site heals, we will be happy to advise you on options for tooth replacement, including bridges, full and partial dentures, and dental implants.
Post-Operative Care After a Tooth Extraction
After a tooth extraction, it is important to follow your dentist’s instructions to optimize healing of the area and minimize post-operative complications. At Los Gatos Family Dentistry in California, we understand your concerns, and we’re here to help you as much as possible.
Instructions Following a Tooth Extraction
Immediately following an extraction, apply firm pressure to the extraction site by biting on a gauze pack for at least twenty minutes to encourage clotting and to control the bleeding. Soon, a blood clot will form over the site to protect the underlying bone and nerve tissues, promoting healthy healing. Take pain medication as directed by your dentist BEFORE the anesthetic wears off to minimize the pain afterwards. Apply an ice pack or cold compress to the outside of your cheek for 20 minutes at a time to reduce any swelling during the first 24 hours.
For the remainder of the day and over the next few days, take it easy and avoid strenuous exercise or heavy lifting. A soft diet is recommended. Avoid hard, crunchy, and spicy foods to minimize injury or irritation at the extraction site and chew on the opposite side. Drink plenty of cool or lukewarm fluids to prevent dehydration, while avoiding hot liquids such as hot tea or coffee. Avoid drinking from a straw, disturbing the area with your tongue, vigorous mouth rinsing, or drinking alcohol and smoking. Be sure to avoid mouthwashes that contain alcohol. Do not rinse, brush, or floss for the first 24 hours. The following day, you may begin brushing gently, taking care to avoid traumatizing the extraction site, and begin using gentle warm salt water rinses after each meal.
As much as you may want to quickly resume your normal routine, it’s essential to get enough rest and let your body heal properly.
Complications After a Tooth Extraction
Following proper post-operative care instructions immediately after an extraction will allow the blood clot to form properly and remain over the extraction site to advance healing. In some instances, the blood clot may be dislodged or fail to form properly, leading to a common dental complication called dry socket. In this case, the blood clot is no longer present, exposing the underlying bone and nerve tissue. If you experience intense pain, pain that radiates to the outside of your face, a bad taste or foul odor, or exposed bone with an empty extraction site, you may have dry socket. Contact us at Los Gatos Family Dentistry right away so we may assist you.
Contact Los Gatos Family Dentistry
Contact Los Gatos Family Dentistry if you have any questions about your tooth extraction and proper aftercare techniques. Should you experience any troublesome symptoms such as prolonged and excessive bleeding, nausea, severe pain, trouble breathing or fever, immediately call our office, so we can advise you about the next steps. We will provide the gentle and compassionate care you need to have a stress-free experience. A tooth extraction will relieve the pain and discomfort that an impacted or damaged tooth can cause, and help get you closer to having the smile you want.
