Tooth Extractions in Marietta, GA

Tooth Extraction Aftercare

Following tooth extractions, there is a large hole in the bone that has to fill with new bone. This bone takes 4-6 months for the body to build. The gum tissue grows much more rapidly. One of the most common, painful, and potentially detrimental complications is getting food packed in this hole. The food debris can ferment and cause infection. The gum tissue can heal over this infection and the cause spread of infection and destruction to large portions of the jaws. To heal properly, the area needs three things: 1) keep it clean; 2) leave it alone, and 3) give it time.

How Are Tooth Extractions Performed?

Your dentist will apply an anesthetic to the area around your tooth. If you’re only getting one tooth extracted, you won’t have to be unconscious, but you won’t feel any pain during the procedure. For more than one tooth extraction at a single time, you may be sedated.

After the anesthetic has been applied, your dentist will carefully move the tooth back and forth to loosen it. Once it’s ready to come out, your dentist will use a pair of forceps to remove it.

Possible Complications After a Tooth Extraction

• Bleeding
• Dry socket
• Lightheadedness
• Numbness
• Swelling
• Difficulty opening or closing mouth

If you experience any of these complications, your dentist will work with you to determine the best course of action.

Tooth Extraction Aftercare Instructions

1. Control bleeding: After your tooth extraction, your dentist will give you a piece of gauze to keep in the area. Your gauze should be changed after one hour from leaving the office. The bleeding should slow down after an hour and you can replace it with more gauze at that time if needed.
2. Leave it alone: Try not to poke at the socket with your tongue or fingers. This could lead to further damage or cause an infection.
3. Avoid hard foods: Only consume soft foods to avoid causing pain or dislodging the blood clot. Avoid drinking through a straw for 48 hours after your extraction
4. Take your medications: If you were prescribed any medications, be sure to complete full dosage as prescribed.
5. Don’t smoke or drink: Avoid cigarettes and alcohol for at least 24 hours after your extraction to prevent a dry socket or irritation.

Tips for a Speedy Recovery After Your Tooth Extraction

• Use ice: if you experience any swelling, you can apply an ice pack on the outside of your cheek.
• Keep brushing: Don’t brush or floss near the empty socket, but do continue to brush the rest of your teeth after your extraction.
• Sleep elevated: Use pillows to elevate your head while you sleep. This will help to reduce bleeding.
• Limit physical activity: Avoid intense physical activity right after your extraction, as this could cause your blood clot to become dislodged.

Foods You Can Eat After a Tooth Extraction

For at least 24 hours after your wisdom tooth extraction, you should consume only soft foods and liquids. You can ease into a more normal diet when you feel comfortable doing so. Try to stick with easy-to-chew foods for a few days. Initially, choose cool foods like yogurt, pudding, Jell-O, and ice cream. If you choose ice cream, select a variety that does not contain crunchy or chewy candy pieces and avoid ice cream cones. Applesauce is a good choice after your tooth extraction because it will add some fiber to your diet. After the first day, you might try mashed potatoes, mashed sweet potatoes, scrambled eggs, oatmeal, pancakes, and broth-based soups without large chunks of meat. Eat these foods lukewarm, not hot.

How to Manage Pain After a Tooth Extraction

It’s normal to experience some soreness, pain, or swelling after your tooth extraction. Your dentist will prescribe painkillers for you to use after your procedure. Be sure to take them as instructed for maximum benefits. If your cheeks are swelling, you can use an ice pack to calm the inflammation.

Our Dental Services

In addition to providing tooth extractions in Marietta, Atlanta Dentures can help with a wide variety of dental services. Our services include:

• Crowns and bridges
• Dental emergencies
• Dental implants
• Dentures
• Root canals
• Restorative dentistry
• Sedation dentistry
• Tooth replacement
• Tooth extraction

Choose Atlanta Dentures in Marietta, GA

What makes Atlanta Dentures in Marietta different? We offer anxiety-free procedures performed by a warm, supportive staff. Your comfort is our top priority, and you’ll never be pressured into moving forward with a treatment plan that makes you uncomfortable. We are dedicated to enhancing your oral health in a welcoming and safe environment.

Get Your Tooth Extraction in Marietta Today

Our team at Atlanta Dentures is committing to making your tooth extraction in Marietta as painless and comfortable as possible. Contact us today to learn more about our dental services or to schedule your appointment.