Tooth extractions are sometimes needed to improve your oral health. We may suggest an extraction for problems like severe decay, damaged teeth from injury, overcrowding, or impacted wisdom teeth.
However, we only remove a tooth when we have to. Dr. Uttma Dham tries to save natural teeth with fillings or root canals whenever possible. Our office at Westside Dental Center offers tooth extractions in a comfortable, modern setting.
Dr. Dham provides general dentistry for both kids and adults. She focuses on preventive care to help patients keep their natural smiles. Our Plantation, FL, dental office offers many dental services in one place, so you don’t have to go to specialists for different treatments.
Dr. Dham can perform extractions, remove wisdom teeth, and do full-service dental implants, all with the comforts available at Westside Dental Center.
Wisdom Teeth Removal
Wisdom teeth, or third molars, usually come in between ages 17 and 25. They are the last molars to develop and can cause problems. Many people need wisdom teeth removed because there isn’t enough space in their mouth or the teeth come in crooked.
When wisdom teeth don’t fully come through the gums, they’re called impacted. This can lead to pain, swelling, or infection. Wisdom teeth can also push against other teeth, causing crowding or damage.
Removing wisdom teeth is a common procedure for young adults. Doing this early can prevent more serious problems later on. If you’re nervous about the procedure, remember it’s routine, and your dentist will guide you through it with care.
Our family dental office offers wisdom tooth removal for all ages. We usually remove wisdom teeth because they are impacted or might overcrowd your other teeth, which can affect your bite.
Tooth Extractions in Plantation, FL
A tooth extraction is a simple procedure. First, the dentist numbs the area to reduce discomfort. In most cases, a local anesthetic is enough for the procedure.
If you have dental anxiety, you may choose sedation. Dr. Dham will go over sedation options with you before the treatment.
Dr. Dham will gently remove the tooth. The gums will be cleaned and stitched to prevent infection. After the tooth is removed, it’s important for a blood clot to form to stop the bleeding and start healing. We pack the area with gauze, and light bleeding is normal.
Aftercare for Tooth Extractions
We will give you detailed aftercare instructions to help with any discomfort. Most patients fully recover within a day or two. If you have sharp pain, heavy bleeding, or swelling, contact our office right away.
You may have some pain and swelling after the extraction. Use an ice pack or a bag of frozen peas or corn to reduce swelling. Take any pain medication as directed. Swelling usually goes away after about 48 hours.
To heal properly, avoid smoking, rinsing, or using a straw for at least 24 hours. These actions can cause the blood clot to dislodge and lead to a dry socket.
A cold cloth or ice can also help with pain. Keep brushing and flossing as usual, but be gentle around the extraction site.
Tooth Extraction FAQs
What foods and drinks should I avoid after a tooth extraction?
After a tooth extraction, avoid alcohol, soda, and carbonated drinks. These can harm the blood clot in the extraction site, slowing down healing and causing complications.
Sugary and acidic foods can also cause problems. Sugary foods might increase bacteria in your mouth, raising the chance of infection and making recovery take longer. These foods can also cause pain around the extraction area.
Acidic foods like citrus fruits or vinegar dressings can irritate your healing gums, making soreness worse.
Stick to water as your main drink because it’s gentle and helps clean out your system. Herbal teas can be soothing, and coconut water or drinks with electrolytes can give you flavor without too much sugar. Eat soft foods that are easy to digest and still give you the nutrients you need.
How long should I wait before eating or drinking hot foods after a tooth extraction?
It’s best to wait at least 24 hours before having anything hot. This gives the blood clot in the extraction site time to settle, lowering the risk of problems like dry socket.
Pay attention to your body. If you still feel sore or swollen, wait longer before trying hot foods or drinks. Lukewarm options will be gentler on your healing gums. Focus on comfort and healing during this time, and you’ll be back to enjoying your favorite meals soon.
How long should I rest after tooth extraction?
The first 24 to 48 hours are key for recovery. Your body needs rest to heal the extraction site, so take it easy.
During the first day or two, avoid heavy activity and rest as much as you can. If you feel tired or sore, listen to your body and relax. After that, most people start feeling better and can slowly go back to normal activities. However, if the discomfort lasts longer than expected, reach out to your dentist.
Keep in mind that healing times differ from person to person. The type of extraction and your overall health can affect recovery. Be gentle with yourself, and rest will help you recover faster.
How painful is a tooth extraction?
You won’t feel pain during the tooth extraction. Anesthetic and sedation are used to make sure you stay comfortable. Once the numbing wears off, you may feel some soreness, but over-the-counter pain medicine can help ease it.
Should I rinse with salt water after a tooth extraction?
Rinsing with salt water helps with healing and lowers the chance of infection, but timing is important. Wait at least 24 hours after your extraction before starting salt water rinses. This gives the blood clot time to form in the socket, which is key to healing.
When you start, mix half a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water. Gently swish it around your mouth, being careful not to spit forcefully as this could disturb the clot.
We recommend rinsing with salt water 2 to 3 times a day for about a week. This will help reduce swelling and soothe any pain.