No one wants to visit their Burnaby dentist and find out they need a tooth extraction. Your dentist’s top priority is helping you preserve your natural teeth, but an extraction might be necessary if tooth decay, tooth damage, or dental trauma occurs. If the time comes and you need to have a tooth removed, keep reading to learn what to expect from the extraction process.
The Tooth Extraction Process
If your dentist is unable to save your tooth and needs to remove it, the extraction process includes the following steps:
Numbing Your Tooth
Your dentist will begin by making you comfortable using an anesthetic to numb your tooth and the surrounding area. You won’t feel any pain during the procedure, but you will likely feel pressure.
Extracting Your Tooth
Next, they will gently remove your tooth from its socket. If any tooth fragments remain in your mouth, they will remove those as well.
Closing the Space
Once your tooth has been removed, your dentist will disinfect the area and close your gums to stop the bleeding and prevent infection.
Controlling the Bleeding
You’ll be asked to place gauze over the extraction site and bite down on it to control any bleeding.
Post-Extraction Care
Once your extraction procedure is complete, you can ensure proper healing by following these steps:
- Place an ice pack on your cheek to reduce swelling.
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers to keep you comfortable and reduce swelling.
- Take any prescribed antibiotics to reduce the risk of infection.
- Avoid smoking and drinking from a straw. This can lead to a dry socket.
- Eat soft foods for a few days and chew on the opposite side of your mouth.
- Rinse your mouth with warm salt water several times a day for two days.
- Call your Burnaby dentist right away if you experience pain, swelling, or excessive bleeding at the extraction site.
Do You Need Dental Extractions in Burnaby, BC?
If you need caring, gentle dental treatment in Burnaby, look no further than Central Park Dental Clinic. Our dental team can put your mind at ease and help you achieve the best oral health possible. You can reach us by calling (604) 438-5261.
We can’t wait to hear from you!