309.764.7631 When is it Time to Remove a Tooth?
We recommend removing a tooth that has been damaged by disease, trauma or crowding. Tooth extraction can be a little uncomfortable, so Dr. Virdi will thoroughly numb the area around the tooth. Afterwards, she’ll provide you with an extraction regimen to follow. In most cases a small amount of bleeding is normal. With proper care, your mouth will heal quickly with minimum discomfort.
Post-Extraction Recovery Tips
As with any wound, be gentle with the area. Don’t rinse your mouth vigorously or eat hard crunchy foods. Avoid drinking through a straw for at least 24-hours after the extraction. This can create suction in your mouth and delay healing.
Cleaning Your Mouth After Extraction
Wait for 24-hours before you clean the teeth around the affected area. However, you may brush and floss your other teeth normally. You can also brush your tongue to get rid of bad breath or bitter taste that often follows a tooth extraction. The day after the extraction, you should start gently rinsing your mouth with warm salt water after every meal. This will keep food particles from becoming lodged in the extraction site.
When to Call Dr. Virdi
If you have any of these issues after your extraction, you should call our offices right away. If it is after hours, go to your nearest hospital emergency room.
- Fever, nausea or vomiting
- Severe pain, swelling or bleeding
- Pain that gets worse over time, rather than better