Tooth Extraction

Dr. Jones will do everything in his power to save a tooth. But sometimes a tooth will be too fractured, infected, or decayed to salvage. Under these circumstances, our dentist may recommend tooth extraction as a last resort. We may also recommend extracting impacted teeth or teeth that would cause crowding to the rest of your smile. Here’s what else you need to know.

What to Expect During Your Appointment

First, we’ll make sure that you feel comfortable and relaxed in the dental chair. For a simple extraction, Dr. Jones will inject a local anesthetic into the soft tissue by the tooth. While you’ll feel a small pinch, this feeling will soon be replaced by numbness. For surgical extraction, you’ll most likely receive both local anesthetic and IV sedation. Once you’re properly sedated, the dentist will use a tool called an elevator to lift the tooth from its socket. Then, he’ll use dental forceps to extract the tooth. As the final step, Dr. Jones may close the extraction site with a few stitches and will have you gently bite down on gauze.

Aftercare Instructions

After your extraction, you will need to be driven home by a friend or family member. You will require rest, but lie with your head propped on a pillow to prevent prolonged bleeding. We will apply gauze when your extraction is complete. When it becomes soaked, 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. After the procedure, your body will create a blood clot over the extraction site. It is very important that you do NOT disturb this clot in any way. Otherwise, you could end up exposing the bone and nerves underneath. This leads to a painful condition called dry socket. The good news is that you can easily prevent dry socket by closely following the instructions our dentist gives you.

Request an Appointment With Us

Looking for a dentist in your area? Our dentist in Muskegon, MI, is ready to help you restore your oral health after a traumatic injury or severe tooth decay. To request an appointment, please call Bruce G. Jones Dentistry at (231) 780-5158.