Tooth Extractions
While it’s always our goal to care for and maintain your natural teeth, there are cases when removing a tooth is in your best interest. We work to make extractions as easy as possible so you can concentrate on a quick recovery.
What to Expect During & After a Tooth Extraction
Tooth extraction is usually a quick procedure, and we prioritize your comfort by using local anesthesia or sedation. However, proper recovery is key to healing. After the extraction, we will place a gauze pad over the site, and you’ll need to bite down for 30 to 45 minutes to form a protective blood clot. It’s important not to disturb this clot for the next 24 hours to prevent complications like dry socket.
To manage swelling, apply an ice pack to the outer cheek for the first 24 hours. Once the swelling subsides, you can use a warm compress for added comfort. Gentle rinsing with warm salt water helps keep the area clean while promoting healing. Our team will provide detailed aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.
If you need a tooth removed, River Valley Dentistry offers gentle tooth extractions with sedation options for a stress-free experience! Visit us in Chattanooga, Ooltewah, or Signal Mountain—schedule your consultation today for comfortable, expert care!
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How can I prevent dry socket after tooth extraction?
After a tooth extraction, a blood clot forms at the extraction site to support healing. If this clot is disturbed or dislodged before full recovery, it can lead to a painful condition called dry socket. To reduce your risk, follow these six essential tips:
- Avoid Straws & Suction – Refrain from using straws or anything that creates suction in your mouth, as this can dislodge the clot.
- No Smoking or Tobacco Use – The fast inhalation and chemicals in tobacco can interfere with healing and increase infection risk.
- Stick to Soft Foods – Eat only soft foods like applesauce, yogurt, and mashed potatoes for the first 24-48 hours.
- Review Your Medications – Consult with your dentist about any medications you’re taking to ensure they won’t interfere with healing.
- Maintain Oral Hygiene – Keep your mouth clean with gentle brushing and consider using an antibacterial mouthwash as recommended.
- Follow Your Dentist’s Instructions – Adhering to our aftercare guidelines will help protect the clot and promote a smooth recovery.
By taking these precautions, you can minimize discomfort and support proper healing after your extraction. If you have any concerns, contact one of our locations today.
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When and why are wisdom teeth removed?
Wisdom teeth are the final set of molars that develop in the back of the mouth. They typically begin to emerge during late adolescence or early adulthood. These teeth are usually removed because they tend to grow at an angle that can cause crowding and interfere with other teeth. Additionally, there is often not enough space in the mouth for wisdom teeth to grow properly. As a result, around 85% of adults have their wisdom teeth removed.
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What causes the need for tooth extraction?
Tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth from its socket in the bone. Teeth extraction usually occurs when a tooth has been broken or damaged by decay and there is too much damage for the tooth to be repaired by a filling or crown.
However, there are other reasons for tooth extraction including, extra teeth growing in that are blocking others, baby teeth that haven’t fallen out in time for the permanent teeth to come in, braces, wisdom teeth that are commonly removed or medical reasons.
Comprehensive Dental Care
We provide a full array of dental services to suit the needs of individuals and families. Learn more about our services, schedule an appointment, or contact us today.