While we will always do whatever is possible to help save a tooth, there are times when a tooth must be extracted. The most common reasons include:

• Impacted Teeth
• Advanced Gum Disease
• Severe Tooth Decay
• Abscesses or Infections
• Orthodontic Reasons
• Mispositioned Teeth
• Roots or Teeth Fractured

When it is determined a tooth must be extracted, your dentist will do an x-ray to get an understanding of what is happening beneath the gum line. Depending on the condition of the tooth and the area surrounding it, the extraction could be simple or it could be surgical and might involve moving part of the gum for the procedure.

Tooth Extraction Aftercare

Following an extraction, there may be some pain and discomfort, but there are steps to help the healing process and reduce discomfort. Use an over the counter pain medication and cold packs to reduce swelling and pain. Immediately post extraction, the priority will be to create a blood clot at the extraction site. Bite down on gauze for about 30 minutes afterward to help the clot form. If bleeding continues, change out the gauze for fresh and clean gauze and bite down for another 30 minutes.

After the clot forms, avoid the following activities:

• Smoking cigarettes
• Rinsing vigorously
• Drinking through a straw
• Drinking alcohol
• Brushing close to the extraction site
• Vigorous exercising

When getting a dental extraction, it is also important to remember that a missing tooth can cause a domino effect in the mouth, depending if you have wisdom teeth or a different tooth removed. To avoid future issues, ask your dentist about getting a crown via a dental implant to replace the tooth.