Extractions
Our Dental Extraction Services
When a tooth's condition is so bad that none of the restorative dental procedures will produce a positive, long-lasting result, the best solution is to extract the tooth. In those cases, it's good to know that with today's surgical techniques and medications, extractions can be done without anxiety and pain.
To perform most extractions, Dr. Jose M. Martinez elevates the tooth to loosen it. Once loose, the tooth is easily removed. More complex extractions require other techniques and more time. Sometimes, after surgery, it is necessary to place some sutures. If that is the case, the patient needs to come back in 10 to 15 days to have them removed.
A combination of anesthetics and medications helps ensure clotting is achieved in a short period of time. Many times, a prescription for pain medication is given to the patient in order to minimize any discomfort. Also, instructions are given verbally and in writing on how to take care of the surgical site.
What to Expect After the Procedure/Instructions
Bleeding
To slow or prevent bleeding, bite with light pressure on the gauze pack that has been placed over the surgical area. Pressure should be applied for 45 min. continuously, or until the bleeding is brought under control. If bleeding persists without slowing for several hours, apply gauze soaked in strong tea. Repeat the above steps until the bleeding stops. Exercising and heavy lifting will raise your blood pressure and will dislodge the blood clot and bleeding will resume. Avoid exercising for three to five days following the surgery.
Swelling
To prevent and/or minimize swelling apply ice packs at 15-minute intervals to the surgical area for 2 hrs. After 24 hours, apply warm compresses to the area to relieve swelling. Swelling is a natural part of the healing process and can be expected for 3 days to several weeks depending on the nature and extent of the surgery.
Discomfort
Following most surgical procedures there may or may not be pain, depending on your threshold for pain. You will be provided with medication for discomfort that is appropriate for you. In most cases, a non-narcotic pain regimen is sufficient. If a narcotic was prescribed, follow the directions carefully. If you have any questions about these medications in interacting with other medications you are presently taking, please call our office first, your physician and/or pharmacist.
General Instructions
- DO NOT rinse vigorously for at least 48 hours (2 days) after the surgery.
- DO NOT exercise or do heavy lifting for 3 to 5 days after surgery.
- DO NOT smoke for 72 Hours (3 days)!
- IF POSSIBLE, chew only on the opposite side of your mouth.
- DO brush and floss normally, with special care around the area of extraction. For the first 48 hours (2 days), DO NOT spit. Just let the water flow out of your mouth naturally.
After the extraction, a blood clot will form in the empty tooth socket. The blood clot is needed to seal the area so it can heal. It is important you follow the above instructions because, among other issues, not doing so can keep the blood clot from forming properly, or can get it dislodged, resulting in a dry socket. This is a very painful condition that leaves the bones and nerves exposed and prone to infection.
When Should You Notify the Doctor?
- If you develop a fever.
- If profuse bleeding continues after 3-4 hours of applied pressure.
- If the pain and/or swelling increase after the third day.
- If an oral bandage becomes dislodged prior to the third day.
- If you have an allergic reaction to medications such as:
- Skin rash.
- Hives.
- Elevated temperature.
- Increased and/or erratic heart rate.
- Nausea/vomiting.
- Dizziness/fainting.
- Blurred vision.
Contact Us or call: 904-296-6820
