Post-Op Tooth Extraction Care

There are many reasons why a tooth may need to be extracted. Tooth decay, gum disease, or even for orthodontic purposes name a few. After the tooth is removed, you may need stitches and you will need to follow strict instructions that Dr. Dennis Morehart, DDS will give you. After the surgery, you will need to rest and you should expect the extraction site to bleed a little following extraction. In addition, here are a few things to remember during post-op care.
If bleeding continues for longer than 24 hours you should call our office immediately. Once you return home after the surgery you should rest, but do not lie flat. This could prolong the bleeding. One of our doctors will prescribe you pain medication, as well as cleaning solution for the extraction site, so if you become sore take as directed. It’s important to limit yourself to soft foods such as gelatin, pudding, yogurt, mashed potatoes, etc. so that the stitches are not punctured. When drinking, make sure you do not use a straw, because the sucking motion can loosen your sutures and slow the clotting process.
If you are experiencing tooth discomfort or have questions about post-op aftercare, please give us a call. To learn about services we provide at our practice, visit www.eniddentalcare.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Dennis Morehart, DDS in Enid, OK, call 580-237-2213.

Types of Tooth Extractions

At the dental office of Dr. Dennis Morehart, DDS we understand that your permanent teeth were meant to last a lifetime. However, there are a number of reasons (aside from wisdom teeth) why tooth extraction may be needed. A very common reason involves a tooth that is too badly damaged, from trauma or decay, to be repaired. Other reasons include a crowded mouth, infection, or risk of infection. Once Dr. Dennis Morehart, DDS decides whether you’re a “tooth extraction candidate” he will make you as comfortable as possible before he performs the procedure.

If you need an extraction, Dr. Dennis Morehart, DDS will first take an X-ray of the area to help plan the best way to remove the tooth. Once this is done, he will perform one of two extractions: a simple extraction, which is performed on a tooth that can be seen in the mouth or a surgical extraction that is used if a tooth has broken off at the gum line or has not emerged into the mouth yet. During a tooth extraction, you can expect to feel pressure, but no pain depending on the type of anesthesia you are administered.

If you believe you have a tooth that may need to be extracted, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.eniddentalcare.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Dennis Morehart, DDS in Enid, OK, call 580-237-2213.