Key Facts You Should Know About Surgical Tooth Extraction

Many people feel nervous about having tooth removal surgery. Tooth extractions, however, are pretty common dental procedures. Working with a skilled dentist like Earl E. Gaball DDS in Battle Creek, Michigan, can help you have a stress-free procedure. The following facts will give you a better idea of what to expect from tooth extractions.

Facts about Tooth Extraction

There are two main types of tooth extraction: simple extraction and surgical extraction.

Simple extractions – used to remove visible teeth and can be reached above the gum line. 

Surgical extractions – used to remove teeth that are impacted (not erupted or partially erupted through the gum line). Tooth removal surgery entails making a small incision in your gum and removing bone, if necessary, to reach your tooth and have it extracted.

Following a tooth extraction, there are a few things to take caution of:

Blood Clots: Once a tooth has been removed, a blood clot will form in the empty socket. This is normal and helps with healing. 

Discomfort: Tooth extractions do not cause discomfort, as Dr. Gaball will numb the area before proceeding with your procedure. Any discomfort you feel after the extraction can be managed with OTC or prescription medication. 

Recovery: Full recovery generally takes two weeks, though you will start to feel better after a few days. We’ll monitor your recovery to ensure no complications from your procedure.

Oral Care after Tooth Extraction

Dr. Gaball will provide you with detailed instructions for your recovery. In general, however, you should:

• Gently rinse the extraction site several times daily with an anti-microbial mouthwash for oral hygiene – no brushing until the site has healed
• Take the medications prescribed by your dentist (antibiotics, etc.) to facilitate your recovery
• Rest as much as possible to give your mouth time to heal
• Eat a soft food diet to avoid irritating the extraction site. Avoid extremely hot or cold foods and beverages, alcoholic drinks, and smoking, and don’t use a straw for drinking

To schedule a consultation for tooth extraction in Marshall, Jackson, Kalamazoo, Hastings, Galesburg, Athens, Climax, Albion, Charlotte, or Battle Creek, MI, contact Dr. Earl E Gaball at (269) 883-1674.