General Dental Treatment

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Extraction


A dental extraction, sometimes referred to as exodontia, is the removal of a tooth from the mouth. Extractions are performed for a wide variety of reasons, including:

  • Tooth decay that has destroyed enough tooth structure to prevent restoration
  • Impacted or problematic wisdom teeth
  • Some permanent teeth to make space for orthodontic treatment

General Dental Treatment FAQs

What should you expect when you are scheduled for a tooth extraction?
  • Your dentist will numb the area to lessen any discomfort.
  • After the extraction, your dentist will advise you on post-extraction care.
  • A small amount of bleeding is normal. Avoid anything that might prevent normal healing:
    1. Do not smoke
    2. Avoid vigorous rinsing
    3. Do not drink through a straw for 24 hours
  • If rinsing is necessary during the first few days, do so gently.
  • For pain or swelling:
    1. Apply a cold cloth or ice bag
    2. Ask your dentist about pain medication
  • Brush and floss other teeth as usual, but do not clean the teeth next to the tooth socket.
    I’ve had my tooth out – what should I do now?
    • Take it easy for the rest of the day.
    • Minimize exercise and rest as much as possible.
    • Keep your head elevated to avoid bleeding.
    What precautions should I take?
    • Avoid hot food or drinks until the anesthetic wears off.
    • Be careful not to chew your cheek.
    • Elevate your head the first night using an extra pillow if possible.
    • Use an old pillowcase or towel in case of slight bleeding.
    Should I rinse my mouth out?
    • Do not rinse the area for the first 24 hours.
    • Allow the socket to heal naturally.
    • Avoid disturbing the blood clot, eating on that side, or letting your tongue touch it.
    Is there anything else I should avoid?
    • Avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours, as it may encourage bleeding and delay healing.
    • Eat and drink lukewarm foods.
    • Avoid chewing on the extraction area.
    When should I brush?
    • Keeping your mouth clean is important after an extraction.
    • Be careful around the extraction site.
    What do I do if it bleeds?
    • Some slight bleeding in the first day or so is normal.
    • Blood mixed with saliva may look dramatic but is usually normal.
    • If bleeding occurs:
      1. Bite firmly on a piece of sterile gauze over the extraction site for at least 15 minutes.
      2. Replace gauze if necessary.
    • If bleeding persists after 1–2 hours, contact your dentist.
    If I am in pain, what should I take?
    • Some tenderness in the area for the first few days is normal.

    • Simple pain relief is usually sufficient (headache medication works).

    • Always follow manufacturer instructions.

    • Do not take aspirin as it may increase bleeding.
    If I am still in pain, what could it be?
    • Infection in the socket (dry socket) can be very painful.
    • Occurs when there is little or no blood clot, leaving bony socket walls exposed.
    • Treatment:
      • See your dentist
      • Dressing may be placed in the socket
      • Antibiotics may be prescribed
    • Small bone pieces may surface in the socket; this is normal.
    Will my dentist need to see me again?

    For difficult extractions, a follow-up may be scheduled:

    • Remove stitches if needed
    • Check that the area is healing properly

    Filling

    A dental restoration, or dental filling, is a restorative material used to artificially restore the function, integrity, and morphology of missing tooth structure.

    • Structural loss is typically due to caries or external trauma.
    • Fillings can be made from materials such as:
      1. Dental amalgam
      2. Glass ionomer cement
      3. Composite resins

    Dental amalgam

    Glass ionomer cement

    Composite resins

    Factors influencing performance, durability, longevity, and cost include:

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      Patient’s oral and general health
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      Components used in the filling material
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      Where and how the filling is placed
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      Chewing load the tooth must bear
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      Number and length of visits needed to prepare and adjust the restored tooth

    Scaling & Polishing

    A ‘scale and polish’ is performed when teeth require a thorough clean to remove plaque and tartar:

    Scaling:

    • Removes hard tartar that cannot be eliminated by brushing

    Polishing:

    • Removes stains caused by coffee, tea, or red wine
    • Stubborn stains may require additional treatments

       

    Equipment:

    • Prophyjet blasts away stains
    • For gum disease: deeper scaling called root planing
      1. Cleans all around tooth roots
      2. Local anesthesia may be offered for comfort

    Benefits of regular scaling and polishing:

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      Maintains healthy teeth and gums
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      Easier home oral care
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      Teeth look and feel cleaner
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      Early detection of gum disease if gums bleed while brushing
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      Prevents gum disease from worsening
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      Helps prevent bad breath caused by gum disease

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