Tooth Extractions
Having a tooth extracted may be in your best interest. We strive to ensure tooth extractions are as easy as possible, allowing you to concentrate on a speedy recovery.
Your Tooth Extraction Dentist in Romeoville, IL
At Romeoville Dental Center, we prioritize helping you maintain all of your teeth. However, there are instances when a tooth extraction becomes necessary for your long-term oral health. Tooth extractions at Romeoville Dental Center are usually quick procedures. Aftercare is crucial for proper healing. It’s important to control bleeding immediately after tooth extraction to facilitate healing. We will ask you to bite on a gauze pad for 30 to 45 minutes to help form a blood clot. Not disrupting the blood clot for the next 24 hours is essential. For swelling, we recommend using an ice pack on the outer cheek. Once the swelling subsides, a warm compress can be used for comfort. You can also gently rinse your mouth with salt water to clean the extraction area.
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How do I prevent dry socket after tooth extraction?
After a tooth extraction, a blood clot forms to start the healing process. If this clot gets dislodged before your mouth has healed, it can lead to pain, known as a dry socket.
Here are six tips to avoid dry sockets:
- Avoid using straws or anything that causes suction or significant air movement.
- Refrain from consuming tobacco products, as inhaling can dislodge the blood clot, and the chemicals may hinder healing or cause an infection.
- For the first one or two days, stick to soft foods such as applesauce, yogurt, and mashed potatoes.
- Check with your doctor about any medications you’re taking to ensure they won’t interfere with the healing process.
- Maintain proper oral hygiene to keep your mouth clean, and consider using an antibacterial mouthwash.
- Follow your doctor’s instructions on proper oral care to aid recovery.
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What can I eat after tooth extraction?
It’s important to stick to soft foods for the first couple of days following your tooth extraction. You don’t want to disturb the blood clot that has formed, so some foods you can eat are:
- Applesauce
- Yogurt
- Mashed potatoes
- Jello
- Pudding
- Ice cream
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What causes the need for tooth extraction?
Tooth extraction is removing a tooth from its socket in the bone. This procedure is typically necessary when a tooth is too damaged by decay to be repaired with a filling or crown. Other reasons for tooth extraction include:
- The presence of extra teeth that are blocking others
- Delayed shedding of baby teeth prevents permanent teeth from coming in
- The need for braces
- The removal of commonly problematic wisdom teeth
- Medical reasons
More Questions?
If you have more questions about tooth extractions, please contact our office and we will be happy to discuss further. You can also request an appointment or see the other services we provide using the links below.