What Can You Expect After a Tooth Extraction? 

At Roam Dental, we never spare any effort to save a damaged tooth, restoring its form and function. However, a tooth extraction is sometimes the only option to safeguard your oral health. Dr. Barbu and our dedicated team are committed to ensuring your experience is as comfortable as possible. Here’s a look at what you can expect after your tooth extraction. 

Why Would You Need a Tooth Extraction?

Dr. Barbu may recommend a tooth extraction to remove a tooth that’s damaged beyond repair due to injury, trauma, or deep decay. Other reasons you may need to have a tooth pulled out include advanced periodontal disease, tooth fracture, severe infection, or impacted wisdom teeth.

We sometimes extract teeth as a component of an orthodontic treatment plan, creating the room needed for the remaining teeth to move into alignment. We may also need to remove baby teeth that do not fall out in a timely manner, interfering with the incoming adult teeth. 

What Can You Expect After Your Tooth Extraction?

Here’s a look at what you can expect after having a tooth extracted: 

• Immediate Aftercare: We will provide you with gauze to bite on for a few hours after the extraction. This not only stops bleeding but also helps a clot form in the extraction site. 
• Managing Swelling and Discomfort: You may experience swelling and discomfort. Apply an ice pack to the affected area to reduce swelling, and take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to relieve your discomfort. 
• Dietary Adjustments: You will need to consume soft foods, like soup, yogurt, or mashed potatoes, in the days following the extraction. Avoid spicy, hot, or crunchy foods that may irritate the surgical site.
• Oral Hygiene: Avoid brushing and flossing around the extraction site for at least 24 hours, and be gentle when cleaning the area in the following days. We also recommend rinsing your mouth with salt water after eating and before sleeping to keep the site clean. 
• Potential Complications: Avoid smoking, vigorous rinsing, and drinking through a straw for the first 24 hours. Otherwise, you risk accidentally dislodging the clot forming at the extraction site, which can lead to a painful complication known as dry socket. 
• Follow-Up Care: Make sure to keep up with any post-extraction appointments. If you develop increased pain or bleeding at the extraction site, or if you have any concerns in the days following the procedure, make sure to contact our office for guidance. 

Replacing Your Extracted Tooth

Leaving a gap in your smile can impact your oral health. The neighboring teeth may start shifting and drifting, leading to misaligned teeth and problems with the bite. Moreover, the imbalance created by missing a tooth can increase your risk of uneven tooth wear, tooth fracture, periodontal disease, and TMJ discomfort. 

Depending on the location of the extracted tooth, Dr. Barbu may recommend a tooth replacement solution, like a dental bridge or partial denture, to restore your complete smile. Our goal is to remove the source of your pain or discomfort and then restore your smile’s health and natural beauty. 

Tooth Extractions Near Me in Shelby Township, MI 

If you have a damaged or painful tooth, contact Roam Dental to schedule a consultation. Dr. Barbu will recommend the most conservative solution to restore your oral health. If you require a tooth extraction, you are in good hands. Our dedicated team will provide you with the highest level of care and service. We invite you to call 586-500-ROAM (7626) to schedule your appointment or book one online today! We look forward to caring for all your dental needs.