Tooth Extraction

The most common reasons that dentists consider tooth extraction:

- Tooth decay is in severe condition that the pulp layer is decayed and the patient refuses root canal treatment.
- Tooth is cracked or broken until there is no sufficient tooth for restoration.
- Tooth mobility due to its surrounding gum disease causing the bone around it to dissolve until it cannot be held.
- Tooth that has problems with the position and direction which dentist deems appropriate to be extracted for example, the wisdom tooth. Tooth extraction as preparation for orthodontics treatment according to dentist’s discretion.

Prior to tooth extraction, the dentist will check the medical record of the patient to ensure they do not have any underlying disease or on any medication. The patient should provide their health information accurately and completely to prevent complications. Before the extraction, the dentist will have an x-ray taken to determine the length, shape, and position of the tooth and its surrounding bones for the best possible treatment.

Teeth removal aftercare

1. Do not disturb the wound. Avoid rinsing, spitting, or touching the wound on the day of surgery.
2. Some bleeding or redness in the saliva is normal for 24 hours. Excessive bleeding can be controlled by biting on a gauze pad placed directly on the bleeding wound for 30 minutes. If bleeding continues please call for further instructions.
3. Avoid hot liquids or food. Soft food and liquids should be eaten about one week after surgery.
4. Swelling is a normal occurrence after surgery. To minimize swelling, apply an ice bag, on the cheek in the area of surgery. Apply the ice continuously, as much as possible, for the first 24 hours.
5. If you were given an antibiotic prescription, take all of them as directed until they are gone to prevent infection and swelling and control pain.
6. After leaving the office, rest and avoid strenuous activities for the remainder of the day. Keeping blood pressure lower will reduce bleeding and aid healing.
7. Alcohol drinking and smoking should be stopped following surgery as it tends to delay healing and interfere with regeneration.