It’s one of your dentist’s primary goals to save each of your teeth and keep them as healthy as possible. However, there are certain situations where having a tooth extracted is unavoidable. As you read on, you’ll learn how a tooth extraction in Westminster works, whether there will be any pain and how to encourage optimal healing.
How a Tooth is Extracted
The process for having your tooth extracted includes the following steps:
- Numbing – The extraction of your tooth is a painless process. This is made possible by your dentist applying a topical anesthesia before the procedure starts to numb the area where the work is to be done.
- Loosening the Tooth – Next, a special tool called an elevator is used to loosen the tooth while it’s still in the socket.
- Tooth Extraction – After the tooth is loosened, your dentist will use forceps to grab the digit and extract it.
- Blood Clotting – Finally, you’ll bite down on a cotton gauze that will help to make your blood clot. Typically, there will be light bleeding up to 24 hours after the procedure concludes.
Caring for the Extraction Site
Your emergency dentist in Westminster says you can expect to feel some discomfort after the procedure is done, but with the proper care, you can manage any pain and encourage healing. The discomfort should usually subside within 24 – 48 hours after the procedure is done.
Here are some tips to help with your recovery:
- Take Pain Medications – Your dentist will either prescribe a pain medication or advise you to take an over-the-counter alternative. By following the instructions given, you can experience less discomfort and heal faster.
- Apply Ice for Swelling – It’s common for there to be some swelling for up to 24 hours after a tooth has been extracted. To decrease the inflammation, you can apply an icepack in 10-minute intervals.
- Limit Activity – Another way to manage any pain and encourage healing is to limit your activity for at least the first 24 hours after the extraction has been done. This will allow you the opportunity to rest, which encourages the necessary blood clotting.
- Avoid the Extraction Site – It’s important to still brush and floss your teeth after the extraction, but be sure to avoid the extraction area to prevent any discomfort or to dislodge the blood clot.
Communicate with Your Dentist
If any pain persists or there is continuous bleeding that lasts longer than two days, then don’t hesitate to reach out to your dentist to schedule a follow-up. The expert will take the time to examine the extraction area and address any issue so that your healing can continue.
Having a tooth extracted is not your idea of a fun-filled day, but with the help of your local dentist, the process can be made simple. Soon, you’ll be back to leading a normal life.
About the Author
A highly respected dentist who has served on the faculty of the Harvard School of Dental Medicine, Dr. Terry Batliner is a fixture in the Westminster community. Since graduating from the University of Northern Colorado Dental School and the University of Iowa, it has been his quest to provide his patients with the absolute best in dental care. If you need a tooth extracted, you can find Dr. Batliner at Sage Dental Care, and he can be reached for more information through his website.