Tooth Extractions
As periodontists, it is always our first goal to save your natural teeth when possible. However, sometimes a tooth requires extraction due to fracture, severe decay or advanced periodontal disease. Dr. Juliana Yun will provide a safe, comfortable, conservative tooth extractions.
The Procedure
Before the extraction, your mouth will be numbed and medication will be provided, if desired, to help you relax. You will still feel pressure, but no pain. The entire procedure takes about an hour. We are able to perform both simple and complex extractions in our office while you relax comfortably. If you will be receiving a dental implant in the future, we will place bone-grafting materials at the time of extraction to preserve your health.
Home Care for Extracted Teeth
Bleeding
After your procedure, it is important for a blood clot to form at the extraction site. Biting on a gauze pad for 30-45 minutes following extraction will help to encourage the clot. If bleeding persists after the first 45 minutes, you may need to repeat with a new gauze pad for 30 minutes at a time for several cycles more to stop blood flow.
Healing
Once you have established a blood clot, do not disturb or dislodge it. DO NOT use straws or rinse aggressively, smoke, drink alcohol or brush the extraction site for 72 hours following surgeries. Limit exercise for 24 hours to keep blood pressure minimized.
Pain
You may experience pain and swelling following surgery. Ice should be applied (wrapped in a towel) to the outside of the cheek for 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off to reduce swelling. Take pain medications as prescribed, and expect swelling to subside after 48 hours. If the medication does not help, please call our office at Ridgewood Periodontal & Implant Associates Phone Number201-825-7677. Be sure to take all antibiotics if prescribed, and drink plenty of fluids the day of extraction.
Diet
You should start with a soft diet (NO STRAWS) for the first day, and can add in foods with more texture as soon as you are comfortable, avoiding the extraction site.
Hygiene
After 24 hours, you should resume brushing and flossing, but avoid the extraction site for a few days as you heal.
After a few days you should feel fine and can resume your normal activities. If you have heavy bleeding, severe pain, continued swelling for 2-3 days, or a reaction to the medication, call our office immediately at 201-825-7677.