Tooth Extractions in San Antonio

Tooth extraction may be necessary for various reasons. Some common situations that may require an extraction include severe tooth decay, advanced periodontal disease, fractures that cannot be repaired, or poor tooth positioning, such as with impacted teeth. In some cases, a tooth may be removed as part of an orthodontic treatment plan.

While extracting a single tooth can address immediate concerns, it may also lead to complications. These include difficulties with chewing, jaw joint issues, and shifting of nearby teeth, all of which can affect your long-term dental health.

To minimize these risks, Dr. Albright will discuss all possible alternatives to extraction and recommend ways to replace the removed tooth to maintain oral function and appearance.

The Extraction Process

Before the extraction, Dr. Albright will numb the area around the tooth, including the tooth, jawbone, and surrounding gums, with a local anesthetic.

During the extraction, you will feel pressure as the tooth is gently rocked to widen the socket and ease removal. The anesthetic will block pain, but you may still feel pressure because the nerves that detect pressure are not fully numbed. If you experience pain, please let us know immediately, and we will adjust the anesthetic.

Sectioning a tooth

In some cases, a tooth may need to be sectioned for easier removal. This is common when a tooth is firmly anchored in its socket or has a curved root. The tooth will be divided into sections, and each piece will be removed one by one.

After Tooth Extraction

After the extraction, a blood clot must form to stop the bleeding and begin the healing process. Immediately bite down on a gauze pad for 30-45 minutes to control the bleeding. If bleeding continues, replace the gauze and bite down for another 30 minutes. Repeat this process as necessary.

Once the blood clot forms, avoid disturbing it. Do not rinse your mouth vigorously, use straws, smoke, drink alcohol, or brush near the extraction site for 72 hours. These actions could dislodge the clot and delay healing. Also, avoid intense physical activity for the first 24 hours to minimize the risk of additional bleeding.

Some swelling and discomfort are common after an extraction. Apply an ice pack or a frozen bag of peas to the area to reduce swelling. Pain can usually be managed with prescribed medications, and swelling typically subsides within 48 hours.

If antibiotics were prescribed, continue taking them as directed until finished, even if symptoms improve. Stay hydrated and eat soft, nutritious foods on the day of the extraction. You can resume normal eating once you feel comfortable.

Resume your regular dental hygiene routine after 24 hours, brushing and flossing at least once daily to keep your mouth clean and promote healing.

You should start feeling better after a few days and can return to your normal activities. However, if you experience heavy bleeding, intense pain, prolonged swelling, or any reactions to the medication, contact our office immediately.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How long will the tooth extraction take? The procedure typically lasts 30-60 minutes, depending on the complexity of the extraction.

2. Will I feel pain during the procedure? You should not feel pain, as we will use a local anesthetic to numb the area. You may feel pressure, but this should not be painful. If you experience discomfort, let us know right away.

3. How long is the recovery period after a tooth extraction? Most people recover in a few days. Swelling and discomfort typically subside within 48 hours, but full healing can take a few weeks.

4. Can I drive myself home after the procedure? If you only had a simple extraction with local anesthesia, you should be able to drive. However, if sedation or general anesthesia was used, you will need someone to drive you home.

5. What should I avoid after the extraction? For 72 hours, avoid smoking, drinking through a straw, or rinsing your mouth vigorously. These activities can dislodge the blood clot and interfere with healing.

6. When can I resume normal activities? You can usually return to your regular activities within a few days. However, avoid strenuous exercise for at least 24 hours to prevent additional bleeding.

7. How do I know if there is an infection after the extraction? Signs of infection include increased pain, swelling, fever, or pus around the extraction site. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact our office immediately.

8. Can I replace my missing tooth right away? In many cases, Dr. Albright will discuss options for replacing the extracted tooth, such as a dental implant or bridge. Timing for replacement depends on your specific situation and healing process.