Tooth Extraction- Procedure, Aftercare & Pain Management

Tooth extraction is often a dreaded procedure, mainly because of the pain involved in it. But, there can be some unavoidable instances where we have to choose tooth extraction. The reason can be crowded teeth, tooth decay, tooth infection, gum disease or any damage caused due to trauma. So, how is this procedure performed? What is the aftercare involved? Leading dentists from the top dental clinic in Medavakkam- 4 Squares Dentistry, is here with all the answers you need!

A Closer Look At The Tooth Extraction Procedure

The first step for the tooth extraction is to schedule an appointment with the best or your locality. If you reside near Gowrivakkam, the dental hospital in Gowrivakkam would be your best choice. They will have the expertise to extract your teeth without causing much pain or discomfort. Let us take a look at the step by step procedure here:

• The dentist will inject a local anaesthetic to numb the area of the extraction. This will help in preventing you from experiencing any pain during the procedure.
• In case your child is getting his/her tooth extracted, or if you need to extract more than one tooth, the doctor might opt for a stronger anaesthetic to help you or your child to sleep during the procedure. 
• For comparatively simple extractions, they will use an elevator. It will keep rocking the teeth back and forth until it gets completely loose. Once it becomes loose, the dentist will use dental forceps to remove the tooth. 

Molar Extraction Or Tooth Impaction

Tooth impaction is the condition in which your tooth fails to grow completely and remains stuck below the gum’s surface. A surgical extraction is recommended in case of a molar extraction or tooth impaction. In a surgical extraction, a small incision is made on the gum to remove the surrounding gum and bone tissue. Then the surgeon will use forceps to rock the tooth to and fro until it breaks away from the bottom. 

In case they find it difficult to extract the tooth as a whole, they will remove pieces of the tooth until it is completely removed. Surgical extractions are done after the administration of a general anaesthetic. After the extraction, a blood clot will form in the socket. The dentist will usually pack this blood clot by using a gauze pad to prevent it from bleeding. In some rare cases, small stitches might be necessary to help the wound heal.

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Aftercare Suggested By Dentists At 4Squares Dentistry, Dental Clinic In Medavakkam

The aftercare after tooth extraction can vary according to the tooth’s location and the type of extraction technique used. Usually, the area will heal within seven to ten days. Always ensure that you keep the blood clot in the tooth socket itself. If you dislodge it, it can cause a dry socket, and that can be very painful. To aid the healing process, you can take the following measures:

• Take the painkillers as prescribed by your dentist.
• Ensure that you keep the gauze pad in place for around 3-4 hours after the extraction procedure.
• Use an ice bag on the affected area immediately after the procedure. But, leave it there only for 10 minutes. If you leave the ice bag in the affected area for longer periods, it can cause damage to the tissues. 
• Take complete rest for 24 hours after the surgery and limit your physical activities for the next few days. 
• To prevent the blog clot from dislodging, make sure you don’t drink using a straw, spit, or rinse 24 hours after the procedure. 
• After 24 hours, use a salt solution to rinse your mouth gently. The solution can be made using 8 ounces of warm water and half a teaspoon of salt. 
• Keep away from smoking.
• While sleeping, keep your head up by propping it with pillows. If you lie flat, the healing process can get delayed. 
• Brush and floss your teeth regularly to prevent any infection. But, avoid the extraction site for a few days until it gets completely healed. 

The Healing Process- Managing The Pain And Following A Light Diet

During the healing stage, you need to stick to a light diet that mainly includes fluids and soft foods. You can have soups, puddings, smoothies, sauces and yoghurts. While having smoothies, use a spoon and not a straw. Again, while drinking juice, just drink from the glass and not using a straw. As the extraction site starts to heal, you can slowly introduce solid foods into your diet. For one week after the extraction procedure, stick to soft food alone. 

You might experience slight pain, discomfort, soreness and swelling on your face after the extraction procedure. It is normal and is not anything big to worry about. Your doctor will prescribe medicines for you to reduce the pain. In case your pain and discomfort persist even after 2, 3 days, you should visit your dentist and check the same. 

Tooth extraction is nothing to worry about if you get the professional care and assistance of an expert dentist! At 4 Squares Dentistry, we make the process smooth and comfortable for you, and you will be back on your feet within a week doing all the things you love! Just a little bit of care and precaution is all you need!