Extractions

Services . Extractions

Maple Grove Dentistry

Tooth Extractions

Schedule a consultation for a tooth extraction

Prior to extraction Dr. Jensen will review with you your options for replacement. Not replacing the tooth can cause the remaining teeth to shift that can then affect the way your teeth touch. This can then lead to complications with your ability to chew and with your jaw.

Dr. Jensen has received extensive training and has a lot of experience in removing teeth. At the time of removal the tooth, gums surrounding the tooth and the jawbone will be numbed with local anesthetic. Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) and oral sedation are also available if desired. The tooth will then be removed atraumatically.

Call us at 208-853-2221 to schedule a consultation for a tooth extraction.

Post-Op Care and Instructions

Bleeding

Some bleeding can occur following extraction and is considered normal. To stop the bleeding place a piece of moist gauze over the area where the tooth was removed and apply pressure by biting down for 30-45 minutes. If bleeding continues this process can be repeated.

Swelling

Sometimes tooth extraction can cause post-operative swelling. You will be advised following your appointment as to whether or not a cold pack would slow any potential swelling. If, following your appointment, swelling develops, place an icepack on the swollen area for 20 minutes and then remove it for 10 minutes. This process can be repeated as necessary.

Managing Pain with Medications

Dr. Jensen often will recommend Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and Tylenol (Acetaminophen) to manage any pain after the tooth is removed. Sometimes patients may need narcotic pain medication to be comfortable. Dr. Jensen will review pain medication recommendations with you at the time of your appointment.

Brushing and Cleaning

To avoid complications avoid brushing the teeth near the area where the tooth was removed for 24 hours. After 24 hours you may gentle clean the teeth in that area and you can rinse with diluted salt water. Regular mouth wash should not be used for a week following extraction.

Healing and Dry Socket Complications

After the tooth has been removed there will be a hole in the bone where the root was. You and Dr. Jensen may have elected to place bone building material (bone graft) in this area for a future implant. The gums will heal over this area in a couple of weeks. During this healing period be sure to follow the instructions given at the extraction appointment to minimize the risk of developing dry socket. Signs and symptoms of dry socket include a dull throbbing pain that appears 3-4 days following the extraction. It can also cause bad breath or leave a bad taste in your mouth. Dry socket will usually heal on its own however you may contact our office for palliative treatment until it heals.