Extraction
Dentist in Wilmington, NC
The last set of permanent molars to emerge are the third molars or wisdom teeth. Wisdom teeth can cause complications in the back of your mouth and serve little function when eating. For these reasons, wisdom teeth are often extracted at a young age. Other teeth, however, may also require extraction if root canal therapy or other treatment is unable to save them. Some of the most common reasons to have teeth extracted include:
- Impacted tooth – tooth is trapped beneath bone or gums and not emerging properly
- Crowding or small mouth – emerging teeth may cause other teeth to shift or crack due to lack of space
- Decay or infection – when a tooth is affected by extreme decay or infection that cannot be corrected with filling or root canal treatment, it may require extraction
If any of these issues apply to you, Dr. Jacob Long may recommend the extraction of one or more of your teeth. During your consultation, we may also recommend sedation dentistry to make your experience more comfortable.
Post-Extraction Care
You’ll need to be driven back home by a friend or family member after your extraction. You will need to rest, but to prevent prolonged bleeding, lie with your head propped on a pillow.
Our team will apply gauze when your extraction is complete. When it becomes soaked, be sure to change it for a fresh piece. Use pain medication and ice packs as directed for pain and swelling. If bleeding continues beyond 24 hours, contact our office immediately.
For the first few days following extraction, limit your diet to soft foods. Avoid smoking or using a straw, as the pressures created by these actions can slow clotting and loosen sutures.
For more information or an extraction consultation, contact our office.
May 15, 2023
