Tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth which is infected, severly fractured, or can not be restored with a root canal and/or crown. Some specific healthy teeth may be extracted to allow braces to fix crowded teeth in teenagers. There are different degrees in difficulty of extractions and it is on the dentist to decide which situations his or her skill level is adequate. Most extractions can be performed under local anesthesia in my office here at Lowcountry Dental Center. More difficult extractions such as 3rd molars (wisdom teeth ) will be referred to an Oral Surgeon who may use sedation. Also, some patients may have existing medical issues that can be treated better by an Oral Surgeon when having the extraction.

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What Are the Aftercare Instructions For Tooth Extraction?

After the removal of the tooth by the dentist, patients are told to keep pressure on the extraction site with gauze, which can be replaced every hour or so. This helps to reduce bleeding until a blood clot forms. Usually, 2-4 hours is sufficient. Patients are told to refrain from sucking on a straw for 3 days to prevent the blood clot from being disrupted. Smokers should refrain from smoking for 72 hours. Ice packs can be used 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off on the cheeks to help eliminate any swelling. The dentist will prescribe pain medication, such as Ibuprofen or Tylenol, which will be needed as long as the pain is severe enough for the patient. Opioids can be used in severe cases, but this should be discussed with the dentist prior to taking these drugs. An antibiotic, usually Amoxicillin or Clindamycin, may be prescribed depending on the situation. If an antibiotic is prescribed, it is on the patient to take it as directed and to take all of the pills. Taking only some of the pills could lead to mutations of bacteria which could result in bacteria which is resistant to the antibiotic. The patient should let the dentist know if there is prolonged bleeding, prolonged pain, or swelling that doesn’t resolve after 3 days or so.

Please reach out to our dental practice at 70 Pennington Dr, Ste 7, Bluffton, SC 29910, to have a consultation with our Dentist in Bluffton, SC. Call us or schedule an online consultation, and we’ll guide you further.