Extractions

An extraction may be recommended if your tooth is severely damaged due to disease, trauma, or crowding. This is when your dentist needs to remove your entire tooth structure, including the root. Your dentist will usually numb you locally at the affected area to lessen any discomfort. Once the extraction is completed, your dentist will advise you of what post extraction regimen to follow.

The following are tips to ensure a smooth healing process.

• Avoid anything that might prevent normal healing

• Don’t smoke or rinse your mouth vigorously

• Avoid drinking through a straw for at least 24 hours
• Follow the diet your dentist recommends

For the first few days, try not to rinse your mouth, or if you must, rinse gently. If you experience swelling, apply a cold cloth or an ice bag around the area and call your dentist right away. You can brush and floss the other teeth as usual, but avoid cleaning the teeth next to where the tooth was removed.

At Central Maine Dentistry, we practice conservative dentistry. That means we are here to help you keep as much as your natural teeth as possible. An extraction of a tooth would only be recommended as a last resort treatment if the tooth is no longer able to be saved.