You and Dr. Nichols may determine that you need a tooth 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 removal of a single tooth can lead to problems related to your chewing ability, problems with your jaw joint, and shifting teeth, which can have a major impact on your dental health.
To avoid these complications, in most cases, Dr. Nichols will discuss alternatives to extractions as well as replacement of the extracted tooth.
Are You Having Problems With a Tooth?
The Extraction Process
At the time of extraction Dr. Nichols will numb your tooth, jaw and gums that surround the area with a local anesthetic.
During the extraction process you will feel a lot of pressure. This is from the process of firmly rocking the tooth in order to widen the socket for removal.
You feel the pressure without pain as the anesthetic has numbed the nerves stopping the transference of pain, yet the nerves that transmit pressure are not profoundly affected.
Occasionally when a tooth is infected, more local anesthetic may have to be given in order to get you more comfortable.
Sectioning a tooth
Some tooth extractions require sectioning. This is a very common procedure done when a tooth is so firmly anchored in its socket or the root is curved and the socket can’t expand enough to remove it. The doctor simply sections the tooth and removes each section one at a time.
After Tooth Extraction
After tooth extraction, it’s important for a blood clot to form to stop the bleeding and begin the healing process. You will be need to close down firmly on gauze for 30-45 minutes immediately after the extraction. If the bleeding or oozing still persists, place another piece of gauze and bite firmly for another 30 minutes. You may have to do this several times to staunch 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, smoke, or drink carbonated beverages for 48 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.
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. The swelling usually subsides after 72 hours.
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 gone. Drink lots of fluids and eat nutritious, soft food on the day of the extraction. You may progress to a normal diet as soon as you are comfortable.
It is important to resume your normal dental routine after 24 hours. This should include brushing and flossing your teeth at least once a day. This will speed healing and help keep your mouth fresh and clean.
After a few days you should feel fine and can resume your normal activities. If you have heavy bleeding, severe pain, continued swelling for 2-3 days, or a reaction to the medication, call our office immediately.
Oral & Facial Surgery of Mississippi
5 out of 5 stars based on 4 Tooth Extractions reviews.
Patient Review from Sharon B
This was a very pleasant visit. The complete staff was awesome.
- Sharon B
5 out of 5 stars by Sharon B on
Patient Review from Casey M
The staff was very nice. Dr. Nichols was great! They made me feel very comfortable. I recommend OFSM to anyone. Especially people that may be fearful of dental work. No worries here.
- Casey M
5 out of 5 stars by Casey M on
Patient Review from Jan S
Great experience at with an Oral Surgeon? Who knew it was possible? Well, I had one! I would highly recommend Dr. Nichols & his staff to anyone in need of their services.
- Jan S
5 out of 5 stars by Jan S on
Patient Review from Donald Mc
Great experience, professional and friendly staff and exceptional Doctor !! I was fortunate to have been referred to Dr. Nichols by my regular Dentist for a tooth extraction which was performed this morning. There was no pain or discomfort during the procedure nor afterwards. Who would think that a tooth extraction could be such a pleasant experience !!! Thanks to the Doctor and his wonderful staff, especially kristen.
- Donald Mc
5 out of 5 stars by Donald Mc on