Teeth Extraction
Port Angeles, WA
 The term "tooth extraction" simply means removing a tooth. While we here at Turella Oral Surgery will usually try to save a tooth, there are times when it makes more sense to extract it instead.
Often we will extract wisdom teeth so that they will not cause problems and pain in your mouth. If a tooth is severely decayed, we could extract it. A broken tooth might be extracted as well. Here is what you should know about tooth extraction.
The Process of Extracting a Tooth
If we decide to extract a tooth, there are a couple of different ways that we might go.
The first type of extraction is known as a simple extraction. This is the best case scenario, but it is not a problem if we cannot do a simple extraction. The reason why the extraction is called simple is that we will be able to remove the entire tooth and the root system whole. We will simply remove the whole thing in one piece.
The other type of extraction is a complicated or surgical extraction. With this, we will first section the tooth. That means that we will cut the tooth into pieces. We will then remove all of the pieces. Often we will choose a complicated extraction because there would be more damage to your mouth if we tried a simple extraction.
After the Extraction
It would help if you do not drive after an extraction. Plan to spend the rest of the day relaxing. You will most likely have some swelling, and you can cut down on that by using an ice pack. We will talk to you about over the counter pain relievers, or in some cases, we might write a prescription.
Make sure that you follow the directions and that you do not over medicate yourself. We also might prescribe an antibiotic. If that is the case, you will need to take the full course, even when you are feeling better. You will also want to stick to soft foods while you heal.
The day after the extraction you will start to use a salt water rinse. You will make this yourself by dissolving a half teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water. Rinse the area, and do not swallow.
You will need to watch for dry socket after an extraction. This is when the blood clot that will form over the area becomes loose. That will expose the nerves, and can cause pain. If you experience dry socket, please contact us immediately. We will tell you other things to be aware of as well.
After the tooth extraction, we will discuss what the next step should be. There are ways to replace a tooth, such as dental implants. Some teeth we will not want to replace. Wisdom teeth are a good example of that.
Here at Turella Oral Surgery, we want you to know that an extracted tooth can lead to better oral health. Call (360) 912-8244 if you need to make an appointment, or if you have any questions.
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