Tooth Extraction & What to Do After

An extraction means to have a tooth removed, usually because of disease, trauma or crowding.

If you need an extraction, our dentist will first numb the area to lessen any discomfort. After the extraction, your dentist will advise you of what post extraction regimen to follow. In most cases a small amount of bleeding is normal. Your mouth will slowly fill in the bone where the tooth root was through the formation of a blood clot.

Here are some tips to follow to make recovery easier:

• Avoid anything that might prevent normal healing.
• Don’t smoke or rinse your mouth vigorously.
• Avoid drinking through a straw for 24 hours.
• Follow the diet your dentist suggests.

For the first few days, if you must rinse, rinse your mouth gently. If you experience swelling, apply a cold cloth or an ice bag and call cal our dental office right away. Ask Dr. Covington or Dr. DuRant about pain medication. You can brush and floss the other teeth as usual. But don’t clean the teeth next to where the tooth was removed.

Remember, when having an extraction, today’s modern procedures and follow up care (as recommended by one of dentist) are there for your benefit and comfort.

Have a Toothache, Let Us Help

If a toothache is bothering you, we can properly diagnosis and recommend a treatment that will alleviate the pain.  We do everything possible to save your existing teeth but there are times where removal of the tooth is your best option.  Tooth pain is no fun and our team understands.  That’s why our Beaufort dentist office offers appointments for emergency dental care for just these types of cases.  Simply call our office at 843-986-0177 or make an online appointment.  We can typically see you within a few hours.