A dental extraction is the removal of a tooth from the mouth. Extractions are necessary when a tooth cannot be restored or prevents the other teeth from aligning properly. 

When Is a Dental Extraction Recommended?

There are many reasons why you may need to have a tooth removed, including:

• Teeth that are crowding other teeth, causing the bite to shift out of position
• Impacted wisdom teeth that don’t erupt properly into the mouth
• Severe tooth decay that can no longer be repaired with fillings or crowns
• Fractured or broken teeth which cannot be fixed with a crown or other restorative treatment
• Cysts or tumors of the jaw
• Advanced gum disease
• Before orthodontic treatment

What Happens During the Extraction Procedure?

An extraction is usually performed under local anesthesia, but our dentist in Greenbelt, MD, may also recommend sedation for your comfort during the procedure. Once the area is numb, the dentist will use forceps to gently rock the tooth back and forth until it can be extracted completely from the socket. If you’re nervous about the procedure, talk to our dentist before your scheduled extraction about our sedation options.

What Happens After the Extraction Procedure?

After the extraction is complete, you may need to bite down on a piece of gauze for 15-20 minutes to absorb any blood and help stop the bleeding. If needed, you may also receive pain medications such as ibuprofen to help with discomfort in the days following your procedure. 

You will likely experience some swelling and soreness, as well as possible bruising around your mouth, for a few days after your procedure. This can be managed with ice packs, over-the-counter pain medicine, and by avoiding very hot or cold foods and drinks. It’ll also help to avoid any strenuous activities and stick to light activities for the first couple of weeks. 

Make sure your diet is well-rounded with healthy fruits and veggies, lean proteins, whole grains, dairy, and water. We know it’ll be hard to avoid your favorite foods for a few days, but it’ll help with your recovery.

Recovery times vary from person to person; it can take a few days to a few weeks to fully recover from an extraction. Once you’re healed from your procedure, you’ll be able to go back to all of your regular activities. Talk to our dentist in Greenbelt, MD, if you have any questions or concerns about your recovery after your extraction.

Want to learn more about our dental procedures? Call us at (301) 321-9966 or visit our dental office located at 7501 Greenway Center Dr Suite 260, Greenbelt, MD 20770.