Rochester Hills, MITooth Extractions
It may be determined that a tooth needs to be extracted. If this occurs, Dr. Boltwood may extract the tooth here in the office, or she may refer you to a specialist. After evaluating the tooth, she will determine what is best for your situation. Dr. Boltwood will also discuss options for replacement of the missing tooth, if necessary.
After Tooth Extraction
General rules to follow after an extraction:
- Bite on a gauze pad for 30-45 minutes after extraction. If bleeding continues, bite on another gauze pad for 30 minutes. Continue as needed—some slight oozing throughout the day of the extraction is not unusual.
- A blood clot forms over the extraction site. Do not rinse vigorously, use straws, smoke or drink alcohol, or brush in the area of the extraction for 72 hours. Also limit vigorous exercise for the first 24 hours after an extraction. These steps will help to ensure the clot is not disturbed.
- Some pain or swelling may occur after an extraction. An ice pack or bag of frozen peas or corn applied to the area will keep swelling to a minimum. Take pain medication as prescribed. Call the office if the pain medication does not seem to be working. The swelling will usually subside after 48 hours.
- If antibiotics are prescribed, take the medication as directed, even if symptoms of infection are gone.
- Drink lots of fluids, and eat soft nutritious foods on the day of the extraction. You can resume regular eating as soon as you are comfortable. Resume your normal dental routine—brushing and flossing after 24 hours—remembering to keep away from the extraction area for the first 3 days.
If you have heavy bleeding, severe pain, continued swelling for 2-3 days, or any reaction to medications, call our office immediately.
