What else do I need to know about extractions?

1. After an extraction, a blood clot forms in the tooth socket. This clot is an important part of the healing process. You should not smoke, or rinse vigorously or drink through a straw for 24 hours.

2. Do not clean the teeth next to the healing tooth socket for the rest of the day. You should brush and floss all other teeth thoroughly. You can begin cleaning the area the next day. You can lightly swoosh with a warm salt water rinse after the first day. Be sure you brush your tongue as this will help eliminate the bad breath and unpleasant taste that is common after an extraction.

3. If you have sutures that require removal, your dentist will instruct you when to return to the office. Most times the sutures will dissolve on their own after 5-7 days. Remember, if you have prolonged or severe pain, swelling, bleeding, fever, nausea or vomiting, call your dentise immediately.

With the advancements made in dentistry, the tooth extraction procedure is most often painless with a mild recovery period.  While there are a variety of reasons that a patient could need an extraction, the primary cause is that the tooth has been diagnosed as unsalvageable or as hurtful to the surrounding teeth, as is the case with many wisdom teeth.

Making your visit a positive experience is our goal.  Our office offers nitrous oxide to help relax you or Dr. Sprout can prescribe an oral sedation pill for you to take prior to your appointment. We can set up a consultation prior to any extraction, if you feel you need more information about the procedure.

We will send you home with explicit instructions on how to care for the extraction area. If at any time after the extraction, you have a question or problem, we will include an office emergency number with our instructions.


Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why do I need my tooth extracted and will my insurance 
     cover it?
     Tooth extraction is a surgical procedure and may be needed for a 
     number of reasons. These include, root fractures, periodontal
    disease, infections, and the most common reason is removal of
    wisdom teeth. The cost varies based on the location and 
    complexity of the extraction. Most insurance companies pay a 
    percentage of the extraction cost. Set up a consultation to get
    actual prices and for the dentist to explain what to expect and to
    help you plan for the actual extraction appointment.

2. Why do I need to get my wisdom teeth out?
    Many times there is not room for these teeth and they become 
    impacted and/or infected. As you get older, there can be damage 
    or crowding of the adjacent teeth. Wisdom teeth can also be very
    difficult to brush and floss and thus be more prone to decay.

3. Should I eat prior to my surgery?
     If you are having the extractions in our office, under local 
    anesthesia or oral sedation, you should eat a good meal 1-2 
    hours before your appointment. It is important to come to
    your visit well rested and not hungry. If you are going to an oral
    surgery office, you will need to check with them prior to your 
    appointment.

4. How long will I be out of work?
    Everyone is different as far as pain tolerance and healing times.
    Generally, for a single tooth extraction, the patient should lay low 
    for the remainder of the day.  Most people are able to return to        
    work or school the next day. If all 4 wisdom teeth are removed, 
    it may take 24-48 hours before you feel like returning to your 
    normal schedule.

5. Will I be swollen?
    After a tooth is removed, you may have some discomfort and
    notice some swelling. You can help reduce swelling and pain by
    applying cold compresses to your face. Your dentist may also
    prescribe medication to control pain and prevent infection.

6. How long do I have to wait to eat and drink after my 
    surgery?
     After the extraction, drink lots of fluids and eat soft, nutritious
     foods. Avoid hot liquids and alcoholic or carbonated beverages.
     DO NOT use a straw. Begin eating solid foods within the next few
     days or as soon as you can chew comfortably. Good nutrition
     is very important to expedite the healing process.

7. What is a dry socket?
     This condition occasionally occurs when the blood clot 
      breaks down sooner than normal.  If this happens, your dentist
      will place a medicated dressing in the socket to protect it as it
      heals. Symptoms include a dull ache and a bad taste in your
      mouth and they usually occur 3-4 days after the original
      extraction. Smoking is the primary cause of dry sockets.