We may recommend a tooth extraction to stabilize your long-term dental health due to severe decay, tooth damage, crowding of teeth, and malocclusion. Dr. Patel will only recommend a tooth extraction when necessary and can coordinate care with other specialists. We will have a partnering local specialist remove your damaged tooth, or wisdom teeth. Our dental care team will be with you every step of the way.
What Happens During a Tooth Extraction?
To perform a simple tooth extraction, the specialist will carefully disconnect the ligaments attaching the tooth to the bone and gum tissue. The tooth is slowly removed by gently rocking it back and forth in the socket. Once complete, the area will be cleaned and gauzes are placed in the cavity. This helps a blood clot form, and prevents any food particles from lodging and leading to infection. You will be provided with post-treatment instructions so you can recover as quickly as possible.
If the tooth is severely damaged, decayed, or impacted in the bone (as is often the case with wisdom teeth), a specialist will conduct a surgical extraction. We will discuss sedation options with you as well.
Wisdom Teeth Removal
This is a common general dental service performed at Westborough Dental Associates. Everyone has wisdom teeth, but only a few can live with them without issue for their entire lives. Dentists recommend that wisdom teeth be removed between the ages of 17 to 21 to prevent any oral health issues down the road.
You might need to have your wisdom teeth removed if you:
- Are experiencing tooth pain in your back molars
- You see signs of tooth decay
- You notice cysts or tumors forming around the area
- Gum disease is prevalent
- Infection is occurring on nearby teeth
Excessive Bleeding after Tooth Extraction?
If you are experiencing regular bleeding a couple of hours (or days) after your tooth extraction appointment, contact us right away. A couple of things could’ve happened after your procedure. Stitches can become undone with too much movement, you might have caused accidental trauma to the healing area, or other damage could have occurred. It is important to see a dentist rather than try to stop the bleeding yourself. Call us, or schedule an appointment online today.
Tooth Extraction FAQs
What is a dry socket?
A dry socket is a painful condition that can occur after a tooth is removed. After a tooth is pulled, a blood clot will form and should remain there until the wound has healed. If it becomes dislodged or dissolves, dry socket may form exposing the nerves and bone.
What should I do if a dry socket forms?
You should call our office immediately if you think a dry socket has formed or if you are in intense pain after an extraction. A dry socket can be easily treated so there is no need to suffer in pain. It can also heal on its own but may be uncomfortable and painful.
When can I eat normal foods after a tooth extraction?
We recommend consuming soft food for up to 24 after the extraction. After 24 hours, you can slowly ease into eating normal foods that you are comfortable with.
How should I sleep after a tooth extraction?
We recommend sleeping in an elevated position for a few days following a tooth extraction. This will reduce your risk of discomfort, pain and will help decrease the swelling.