10 common questions asked after extraction [post op]

1. What are the instructions to be followed after extraction?

The instructions for the first 24hrs are:

• Do not rinse your mouth as it may dislodge the clot formed.
• Place firm pressure on the extraction site with a clean damp gauze cloth for 45 minutes.
• Do not use straw for drinking.
• Take soft diet for the first 24hrs.

After 24 hrs of extraction:

• The extraction to be maintained with salt water rinses.
• Brushing and flossing regularly.
• Placing icepacks on the outside of the face over the area where surgery has been performed reduces swelling if any.

2. How do I control bleeding after bleeding?

• Bleeding will stop only if pressure is applied for long enough. So bite firmly on the cotton roll that has been placed for at least 30 min.
• Do not chew on the cotton roll placed.
• Do not suck on the extraction site.
• Do not rinse the extraction site which dislodges the blood clot formed.

3. How long does it take for the extraction site to heal?

The gums in the extraction site usually takes 3 -4 weeks to heal and the bone can take months to heal completely however pain should be lessening by the second day but it varies from person to person.

4. Do I need medication after extraction?

Antibiotics and pain killers are given to the patients who are already sick or have low immunity to prevent infection and pain after tooth extraction.

5. Why is my tooth extraction site painful?

It is usual common to have some pain and discomfort for 2- 5 days after extraction, if it persists even after that then there may be infection of the site. The bone around the tooth may be drilled for extraction which also causes pain. If the blood clot has dislodged there may be dry socket.

6. What is the effect of extraction on neighboring teeth?

During a difficult extraction its possible for some dental instruments to press on tooth next to the one being removed usually it is avoided but occasionally it may happen and it causes the teeth to be sore but it settles in a week or so but during this time the tooth can be tender to bite.

7. Why are the sutures placed after tooth extraction?

Stitches or sutures are placed after the drilling of bone in surgical extraction or in difficult extractions to restore the shape of the gums and proper closure of the bone socket in order to promote healing . Sutures may be removed 7-10 days after surgery.

8. How long will I have to wait after extraction for tooth replacement?

It usually depends on the type of tooth placement if it is an implant it can be placed immediately after extraction by the right dentist who is knowledgeable in this area. If the patient needs a bridge he should wait until the extraction site is healed.

9. Can I go to work after extraction?

Tooth removal can be simple extraction or surgical procedure, in majority of simple extractions the patient receives some type of anesthesia which numbs the tooth when anesthesia wears off depending on the severity of the extraction there may be discomfort or pain. In case of surgical extraction general anesthesia may be given which requires the patient to rest through the day. In most of the cases it is best to relax for the balance of the day after extraction.

10. What steps can I take to prevent the need for tooth extraction?

Tooth extraction is usually the last step when the tooth cannot be restored or repaired.
To prevent the need for tooth extractions good oral health need to be maintained by brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily.
Eating a well balanced diet and limiting snacking also helps.
Visiting dentist regularly checkups and cleaning.