We always do our absolute best to save teeth when possible but some teeth cannot be saved. If decay or infection is too extensive to treat and it is affecting the patient’s health they must be removed. Another reason for extraction could be that a tooth is “non-restorable”, which is a designation when no matter what treatment we try the tooth cannot be fixed.
Whether simple or complex, at Angstadt Family Dental our doctors can complete just about any tooth extraction necessary for our patients. The most important part about trying to save teeth is starting care BEFORE and pursuing preventive care to prevent losing teeth.
Do you need a tooth extracted due to infection or decay? Contact us to set up an appointment at your nearest location.
What to Expect after a Tooth is Removed?
After surgical tooth extraction, the doctor and/or assistant will always explain what the patient should expect post-operatively and give them the best instructions to help them heal quickly and pain-free. Remember, primary healing occurs over 1-2 weeks and secondary healing occurs over 4-6 weeks.
Here are some instructions and some expectations after a tooth extraction that can be expected for all or most patients.
Note: These instructions are broad and for MOST patients but note that the doctor’s specific instructions for each patient can vary and to follow those instructions first.
What to Expect after a Tooth is Removed?
- Some swelling and even potential bruising can be expected but is not always common
- Soreness or tenderness around the extraction side is to be expected directly after the extraction but to taper off over the course of a couple of days. Tenderness to the touch can be expected for up to 2+ weeks as bone healing and soft tissue healing occur
- Patients should expect a positive trend with soreness, tenderness, and any swelling that may occur. If it ever becomes WORSE or more painful than previously call the doctor on-call
Instructions after a Tooth Removal
- Take the prescribed pain medications AS DIRECTED by your treating doctor
- NO SMOKING!!
- Use an ice pack as directed to minimize swelling and pain. Typically 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off the first 2 days can be very helpful
- Biting on the provided gauze can help a clot to form, use it as necessary
- Do not spit forcefully, rinse vigorously, or drink through a straw. Anything that creates force in your mouth can slow the healing process and delay healing at the site of the extraction
- DO NOT use any home remedies or OTC rinses unless recommended to you by your doctor
- Eat and drink a soft and bland diet. Anything crunchy or chewy can disrupt healing at the site(s) and/or get stuck and delay healing
- Eat and drink cooler or room temperature foods and drinks. Anything hot can increase blood flow and increase soreness/swelling
Emergency Dental Extraction
Do you have a tooth that needs to be extracted now? We offer emergency tooth extractions in both of our locations. You can schedule an appointment or get emergency dental care on the weekend and after hours!
Call one of our office locations today to request our dental services.
Wyomissing
85 Commerce Drive
Wyomissing, PA 19610
Downingtown
72 West Lancaster Avenue
Downingtown, PA 19335
Lancaster
1670 Lincoln Highway East
Lancaster, PA 17602
Start Each Day with a Rewarding Smile!
Request an appointment from one of our four locations.