What to Expect When Having a Tooth Extracted

1. What to Expect When Having a Tooth Extracted Removing a tooth can be a daunting experience. However, if you are aware of what to expect during, after, and before the procedure, the process can be less stressful. While many undergo wisdom teeth removal in Montreal, there are other reasons why tooth extraction may be necessary. Excessive tooth decay, crowding, and tooth infection can all require a tooth extraction. How can I get ready for my tooth extraction? If you are having a tooth extracted, due to an infected wisdom tooth or decay, removing it at the right time is the best course of action. You can help your dental team by providing pertinent information that ensures a safe and accurate extraction. Please remember that some conditions or infections may require you to take antibiotics before your extraction. Here are some of the points that you should go through with your doctor: ● Information about over-the-counter medications, vitamins, or herbal supplements you take regularly Information about severe health conditions like heart problems, an artificial joint, diabetes or blood pressure, or a weak immune system. If you have received intravenous osteoporosis bisphosphonate drugs ● ● How to prepare on the day of your extraction On the day of the procedure, keep the following in mind to ensure quality treatment: ● ● ● Wear a short-sleeved shirt or loose-fitted clothing when you arrive for the procedure. Don’t eat or drink for six to eight hours before your appointment. Refrain from smoking beforehand

2. ● ● If you have a cold, tell your dentist as you may need to reschedule. If you had nausea or vomiting the night before, inform the team as it may require different anesthesia or rescheduling. If you’re receiving general anesthesia, have someone with you to drive you home. ● What type of tooth extraction will I receive? There are two types of extractions: ● Simple – Performed when a tooth can be seen in the mouth. Patients will receive a local anesthetic to numb the tooth area, so you will only pressure and not any pain. Surgical – Performed when a tooth has not yet erupted or has broken off at the gum line. The dentist or oral surgeon will cut into your gum with a small incision to remove bone around your tooth or cut your tooth before it can be extracted. ● What should I do after tooth extraction? You will feel some soreness and need to be more careful while eating or drinking. Your dentist might suggest the below aftercare instructions to ensure quick healing: ● ● ● ● ● Painkillers to numb the pain. You will need to leave the gauze for 3-4 hours after the extraction. You can apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. Try to rest for at least a day to ensure safe healing Relax for at least one full day after the extraction, and limit activity for the next 1-2 days depending on how you feel Try not to spit or rinse forcefully for 24 hours after the extraction to avoid dislodging the blood clot. Use a saltwater rinse after one day after the procedure Do not smoke as it may hamper the healing process Try eating soft foods that do not require chewing, such as pudding, jelly, soup, ice creams, milkshakes, or mashed potatoes. ● ● ● ● If you are experiencing pain that is not getting better after several days or have a fever, draining from the incision, or pus, make an appointment to see your doctor as soon as possible.