What to expect following dental extractions
- Posted on: Jan 15 2020
At Gentle Family Dentistry, patients in and around the communities of Bethlehem and Allentown, PA may need dental extractions. While the idea of permanently removing an adult tooth sounds scary, it is a routine procedure provided at our office. Our dentists also educate patients on what to expect following the removal of teeth and how to help the area heal during post-operative recovery.
What happens during a tooth extraction?
There are two types of extractions, including simple extraction and surgical extraction. A simple extraction removes an exposed tooth quickly from the jaw bone with local anesthetics, while a surgical extraction requires the dentist to access a tooth underneath the gumline to remove. Surgical extractions are more invasive, but may be required when impacted teeth are present.
What to expect after dental extractions
The dentists of Gentle Family Dentistry and Implant Center will provide patients with aftercare instructions following dental extractions. Simple extractions only require a few days to heal, while surgical extractions may require a week or longer. Swelling and discomfort are normal, and most patients utilize over-the-counter pain medications to manage this feeling. Swelling can be addressed with the use of an ice pack on the side of the mouth where the tooth was extracted. Patients should also pay close attention to the texture of the foods they are eating after their procedure. Most patients will benefit from a soft diet for several days and up to a week to avoid causing damage. Patients will schedule a post-operative appointment around two weeks after their extraction so the dentist can evaluate the healing process. If patients are having restorations such as dental implants placed, x-rays may be taken to ensure the smile is ready for the procedure.
Gentle Family Dentistry and Implant Center proudly offers dental extractions
Whether you require surgical or simple extraction, the team at Gentle Family Dentistry and Implant Center can help. Bethlehem and Allentown, PA patients should call their nearest office to schedule an evaluation and determine if they can benefit from the removal of a natural tooth. Our practice accepts new patients and families in the area who are seeking family dentistry solutions.
Posted in: Dental Services