Why is it done?
A tooth that is severely damaged may need to be removed. Removing a tooth is necessary when no other treatment will cure the infection.
A tooth extraction should be done as soon as possible to avoid the spread of infection and more serious problems. In some cases, a root canal treatment might be enough to save the tooth. In other cases, your dentist may recommend to extract the tooth and consider a bridge or implant to cover the gap.
How is it done?
Removing the tooth can help keep infection from spreading to other areas of your mouth.
Before removing your tooth, your dentist will give you a local anesthesia to numb the area where the tooth will be removed.
In most cases, the recovery period lasts for only a few days.
What to do to speed recovery?
>Take painkillers as prescribed by your dentist.
>After 24 hours, rinse your mouth gently with warm salt water several times a day to reduce swelling and relieve pain.
>Change gauze pads before they become soaked with blood.
>Relax after surgery. Physical activity may increase bleeding.
>Avoid smoking.
>Eat soft foods, such as gelatine, pudding, or a thin soup.
>Do not lie flat. This may prolong bleeding. Prop up your head with pillows.
>Avoid rubbing the area with your tongue.
>Carefully brush your teeth and tongue.