Having a damaged or infected tooth can be painful and can eventually lead to other teeth being damaged as well. If a tooth does not have extensive damage, a filling or crown may be used to make the necessary repairs. You could also choose to have a tooth extraction procedure performed. This is often the preferred option if the choice is badly damaged, and there is a possibility that repairs may not last. Opting for tooth extraction may be the best choice. Lovett Dental Corpus Christi can guide you through the process and help you schedule an appointment or consultation today.

Before the Tooth Extraction Procedure

Before you go in for the oral surgery, make sure to have all of your questions answered. Your dentist will let you know what to expect once the procedure is finished. You will also receive a list of detailed instructions. It’s important to follow these instructions as closely as possible to keep your infection risk as low as possible. Following these instructions closely will also allow the area to heal with less pain and discomfort.

Keep It Covered

You will receive small gauze pads to put over the opening where the tooth or teeth were extracted. The gauze must remain in place for at least two hours after the procedure. If the wound is still bleeding, you may want to leave it in place for a little longer. Undergoing a teeth extraction procedure where more than two or three teeth are being removed may mean that you will bleed for longer periods of time.

Take It Easy After a Tooth Extraction

Any time you have invasive specialty dental services performed, like tooth extraction, you will want to take it easy for at least 24 hours. Don’t overexert yourself or exercise. This can put pressure on the wound and cause it to start bleeding all over again. When you get home from having a tooth removal procedure, lay down and rest for a few hours. It will allow the bleeding to stop and to get a good head start on healing. Your doctor may recommend that you take the rest of the day off work. A tooth removal procedure may not seem serious, but it’s important to rest for at least a few hours so that healing can start to take place.

Watch What You Eat and Drink

Any sucking motion will dislodge the blood clot that forms over the wound. It’s crucial that you avoid smoking or drinking from a straw for at least 24 hours after a tooth extraction procedure. Many dentists recommend eating soft foods for at least 24 hours after any dental procedure. This prevents food from getting stuck in the gap and dislodging the blood clot that protects the wound.

General Care

When it comes to tooth removal, it’s important not to rinse your mouth or brush your teeth for at least 24 hours after the procedure. This can damage the soft tissues and dislodge the clot that has formed to protect the wound. It’s natural for some swelling to occur after a tooth extraction procedure. If the swelling is severe, apply ice as often as needed. Applying ice may also dull your pain and discomfort as well. If pain persists, you can take over the counter pain medication according to the manufacturers’ directions.

Call Lovett Dental Corpus Christi for Your Dental Needs

If you experience the pain and discomfort associated with a damaged tooth, call Lovett Dental Corpus Christi at 361-986-1117 today. Scheduling an appointment will allow you to have a tooth extraction performed and get you back home in a short period of time. Teeth extractions are not our only service. While you are there, you can find out about the other available dental services at our office.