Tooth Extractions in Anderson IN

You and Dr. Weiandt may determine that you need a tooth extraction for several reasons. Some teeth are extracted because they are severely decayed; others may have advanced, or have broken in a way that cannot be repaired. Other teeth may need removal because they are poorly positioned in the mouth (such as impacted teeth) or in preparation for orthodontic treatment.

Removing a single tooth can lead to problems related to chewing ability, problems with the jaw joint, and shifting teeth, which can significantly impact dental health.

To avoid these complications, in most cases, we will discuss alternatives to extractions as well.

The Extraction Process

At the time of extraction, the doctor will need to numb your tooth, jawbone, and gums that surround the area with a local anesthetic.

During the extraction process, you will feel a lot of pressure. This is from firmly rocking the tooth to widen the socket for removal.

You feel the pressure without pain, as the anesthetic has numbed the nerves, stopping the transference of pain. Yet the nerves that transmit pressure are not profoundly affected.

If you feel pain at any time during the extraction, please let us know immediately.

Sectioning a Tooth

Some teeth require sectioning. This procedure is widespread when a tooth is so firmly anchored in its socket or the root is curved that the socket can’t expand enough to remove it. The doctor cuts the tooth into sections and removes each one at a time.

After Tooth Extraction

After tooth extraction, a blood clot must form to stop the bleeding and begin healing. Bite on a gauze pad for 30-45 minutes immediately after the appointment. If the bleeding or oozing persists, place another gauze pad and bite firmly for another 30 minutes. You may have to do this several times to staunch the blood flow.

After the blood clot forms, it is essential not to disturb or dislodge it. Do not rinse vigorously, suck on straws, smoke, drink alcohol or brush teeth next to the extraction site for 72 hours. These activities may dislodge or dissolve the clot and hinder the healing process. Limit vigorous exercise for the next 24 hours, as this increases blood pressure and may cause more bleeding from the extraction site.

After the tooth is extracted, you may feel pain and experience swelling. Applying an ice pack or an unopened bag of frozen peas or corn to the area will minimize swelling. Take pain medications as prescribed. The swelling usually subsides after 48 hours.

Use pain medication as directed. Call our office if the medication doesn’t seem to be working. If antibiotics are prescribed, continue to take them for the indicated length, even if signs and symptoms of infection are gone. Drink lots of fluids and eat nutritious, soft food on the extraction day. You can eat normally as soon as you are comfortable.

After 24 hours, it is important to resume your regular dental routine. This should include brushing and flossing your teeth at least once a day. This will speed healing and help keep your mouth fresh and clean.

After a few days, you should feel fine and resume your normal activities. If you have heavy bleeding, severe pain, continued swelling for 2-3 days, or a reaction to the medication, call our office immediately.