When fillings and root canals are unable to fix broken or severely decayed
teeth, your only option may be to undergo a
dental extraction. Even in cases where your teeth are intact and healthy, extractions may
be used to remove wisdom teeth that may cause a shift in the rest of your
teeth. If you’re scheduled to have a tooth extracted, there’s
no cause for concern – in this blog, our Ventura dentist explains
how best to prepare for the appointment.
Before The Extraction
Your dentist will take x-rays of the area that will be worked on –
if the dentist will be pulling out your wisdom teeth, he or she will take
a full panoramic x-ray of your teeth. Before the extraction, your dentist
will go through pre-surgical procedures. You may be asked to take antibiotics
before the appointment, especially if you have a weaker immune system.
On the day of your surgery, make sure you follow pre-surgical instructions.
During the Appointment
Sometimes extractions can be done with just local anesthetic. Under local
anesthesia, you’ll be awake during the procedure, but unable to
feel pain. Apart from pressure, if you feel any sharp or shooting pain,
let your dentist know immediately. During some surgical extractions, the
dentist may place the patient under general anesthesia, which will put
you to sleep for the duration of your appointment.
After the Extraction
It’s normal to feel a certain degree of discomfort after the procedure.
If you were prescribed pain medications, take them as instructed and use
ice packs to relieve any pain or swelling. In the 24 hours immediately
following the procedure, avoid spitting or using a straw – this
can cause dry socket symptoms, which occurs when you dislodge a newly
formed blood clot.
When it comes to your oral health, you can trust that you have a top-rated
dentist on your side with Ventura dentist Mark Weitzman, D.D.S. Call us
today at (805) 295-8896 to
schedule an appointment.