Understanding the Tooth Extraction Process at Our Poway Dental Office

Tooth extractions are sometimes necessary due to severe decay, advanced periodontal disease, irreparable damage, poor positioning, or as part of orthodontic treatment. Because removing even a single tooth can impact your dental health significantly, it is crucial that such procedures are carried out by skilled and experienced dental professionals.

What to Expect During a Tooth Extraction

The tooth extraction process begins with the application of a local anesthetic to numb the surrounding nerves of the tooth, gums, and jawbone. During the extraction, you will feel pressure but not pain as the dentist carefully rocks the tooth to widen the socket for removal.

Why Sectioning a Tooth May Be Necessary

Sectioning is a technique used during some extractions, where the tooth is cut into smaller parts to facilitate easier removal. This is particularly useful for teeth that are firmly anchored or have curved roots that make standard extraction challenging.

Post-Extraction Care and Follow-Up

After a tooth is removed, it is essential for a blood clot to form to stop bleeding and begin the healing process. To protect this clot, you should avoid vigorous rinsing, using straws, drinking alcohol, smoking, and brushing near the extraction site for 72 hours. If bleeding continues post-procedure, applying pressure with a gauze pad can help. Strenuous activities should also be avoided immediately after the procedure to reduce the risk of bleeding.

Following the extraction, it’s common to experience some pain and swelling, which can be managed with ice packs and prescribed medications. If pain and swelling do not decrease after 48 hours, it is important to contact your dentist. You should resume brushing and flossing 24 hours after the extraction to aid in the healing process and can generally return to normal activities within a few days.