A tooth that is severely damaged may need to be removed. Dr. Meena has performed several teeth extractions and assist you in removing infected teeth. Before removing your tooth, Dr. Meena will give you a local anesthetic to numb the area where the tooth will be removed. A stronger, general anesthetic may be used, especially if several or all of your teeth need to be removed. General anesthetic prevents pain in the whole body and will make you sleep through the procedure.
After the tooth is removed, you may need stitches. You can gently bite down on a cotton gauze pad placed over the wound to help stop the bleeding. The removed tooth can be replaced with an implant, a denture, or a bridge.
Why It Is Done
Removing a tooth is necessary when decay or an abscessed tooth is so severe that no other treatment will cure the infection.
How Well It Works
Removing the tooth can help keep infection from spreading to other areas of your mouth.
What To Expect After Surgery
In most cases, the recovery period lasts only a few days. The following will speed recovery:
- Take painkillers as prescribed by Dr. Meena
- After 24 hours, rinse your mouth gently with warm water several times a day to reduce swelling and relieve pain. Make your own salt water by mixing 1 tsp of salt in a medium-sized glass of warm water.
- Change gauze pads before they become soaked with blood.
- Relax after surgery. Physical activity may increase bleeding.
- Avoid smoking.
- East soft foods, such as gelatin, pudding or a thin soup. Gradually add solid foods to your diet as healing progresses.
- Do not lie flat. This may prolong bleeding. Prop up your head with pillows.
- Avoid rubbing the area with your tongue.
- Continue to carefully brush your teeth and tongue.
After the tooth is removed, you may need stitches. Some stitches dissolve over time, and some have to be removed after a few days. Dr. Meena will tell you when your stitches need to be removed.