Tooth Extraction Miami, FL

The process of having a tooth extraction

The type of extraction needed is determined by the position of the tooth in the mouth. If completely exposed and above the gum line, a tooth will be removed in a traditional manner using instruments designed to safely and gently elevate the tooth out of the bony socket. If impacted, or sitting partially or completely below the gum tissue, as several wisdom teeth are found, a surgical extraction will be necessary. In this case, a conservative incision will be made in the gum line to expose the underlying tooth. When readily exposed, the tooth will be gently removed either intact or in multiple pieces.

The area to be treated will be completed anesthetized, or numb, prior to initiating the extraction. Various forms of anesthesia are available and the options presented during the planning appointment. The patient may experience slight pressure, or tugging, as the tooth is elevated out, but pain is not expected and should not be felt. Once the extraction is complete, the socket is cleansed, disinfected,and a suture placed as necessary. Residual bleeding is controlled and the patient is dismissed safely and comfortably. Home care instructions are given and pain medications prescribed as indicated. Our goal is to provide a safe and relaxing environment for our patients during this, and all, procedures.

How to care for your mouth after a tooth extraction

At Dr. Rita The Smile Designer, we perform a tooth extraction in the least invasive manner possible to shorten the recovery time. Most of our patients will recover in the office while we make sure the bleeding has ceased and discomfort is minimal or nonexistent. In certain cases, we may recommend someone pick you up after having a tooth extraction. At home, you will want to rest, while taking a nap is also helpful. Be sure to drink plenty of water, avoiding fluids that are too hot or cold, as this could lead to sensitivity during the first couple of days. Avoiding use of a straw during the first few days, as the suction could cause the affected area to start bleeding. How the procedure was completed will influence how long it takes to recover. Generally, any swelling will go down after a few days.

In our family dentist office, we recommend taking ibuprofen to help reduce the swelling and to use an ice pack or cold compress for 15 minutes at a time. During your recovery, you should eat foods that are high in nutrition but soft in texture. Taking in fruit, yogurt, protein powder, and vegetable smoothies is an excellent way to keep your nutrition levels up without needing to bite down on anything hard or abrasive. As you add foods back in, be sure to start with things that are soft, like noodles, and gradually work your way up to a full diet. While caring for your mouth after a tooth extraction, make sure to keep it as clean as possible. Maintaining food accumulation and bacterial counts to a minimum will decrease the risk of inflammation and infection. Brush your surrounding teeth normally while carefully avoiding the surgical site. Rinsing with water and baking soda, and the use of an antibacterial mouthwash, will keep the extraction site clean and reduce the incidence of complications. We may want to see you for a follow-up appointment.

The body’s normal healing process begins immediately after the tooth extraction. Formation of a blood clot inside the tooth socket begins this healing cascade and helps to stop the bleeding. To aid this, we instruct you to bite on a gauze pad for 30 minutes immediately following the extraction. This may need to be repeated should oozing persist either in the office or at home. The use of a moist teabag in the same manner also assists in reducing, or stopping, the bleeding (the tannic acid in tea acts as a blood constrictor).

Post extraction pain and swelling may be expected. Applying an ice pack or an unopened bag of frozen peas or corn will minimize the swelling. Take medications as directed by our office and call us should these not alleviate your symptoms.

Prescribed antibiotics should be taken as directed and until finished, even if pain or signs of infection are gone. We ask that you drink plenty of fluids and refrain from eating hard or abrasive food on the day of the extraction and for two to three days days after that. This will reduce the risk of developing a “dry socket” (painful and inflamed tooth socket).

Additionally, please refrain from alcohol consumption, pressure-related activities, smoking, the use of drinking straws, and the need to forcefully blow your nose. If necessary, these may be resumed after seventy-two hours from the day of extraction.

Normal dental brushing and flossing should resume after twenty-four hours. A clean mouth is key in the healing process.

If you experience severe pain, heavy bleeding, persistent swelling, or a reaction to medication please contact our dental office for assistance.