Tooth Extractions | Branchburg NJ

You and Dr. Maloney may determine that you need a dental extraction for any number of reasons. Some teeth are extracted because they are severely decayed, others may have advanced periodontal disease, 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.

The Extraction Process

Dental extractions can be done under local anesthesia where the area is numbed or under IV sedation/general anesthesia where the patient is under a twilight anesthesia or completely asleep. Since all cases and patients are different, these options will be discussed prior to the procedure

The After Tooth Extraction process in the Branchburg area

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

After the blood clot forms it is important to not disturb or dislodge the clot. Do not rinse vigorously, suck on straws, or drink alcohol 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.

Smoking is strongly discouraged for the first week after having an extraction, or any type of surgery, as smoking greatly increases the chances of postoperative complications such as dry socket, delayed healing, pain and infection.

After the tooth is extracted you may feel some pain and experience some swelling. An ice pack or an unopened bag of frozen peas or corn applied to the area will keep swelling to a minimum. Take pain medications as prescribed. Swelling usually reaches it’s maximum at 48-72 hours after the procedure and should gradually decrease each day thereafter.

Use pain medication as directed. If antibiotics are prescribed, continue to take them for the indicated length of time even if signs and symptoms of infection are not present. Drink lots of fluids and eat soft food on the day of the extraction. You can eat normally as soon as you are comfortable. Small foods like nuts, granola or seeds are discouraged during the first week as these can become lodged within the extraction socket and cause pain or other complications.