Tooth Extractions Spokane, WA
When restoration procedures such as root canal therapy, crowns, or fillings are not enough to save a tooth, it may need to be pulled, or extracted. Tooth extraction procedures today are far less painful than ever before, thanks to powerful anesthetics. Before a tooth is extracted, the area surrounding the tooth is numbed with a topical/and or injectable anesthetic Lidocaine. In many cases, a patient who has a tooth pulled experiences only mild post op discomfort and mild bleeding.
Dr. Pete has been doing extractions for years and is comfortable with the majority of cases. Dr. Pete does not have the ability to put patients completely to sleep when performing tooth extractions, that would require a referral to an Oral Surgeon.
Tooth Extraction Post Op Care
Patients with extracted teeth sometimes need to take an antibiotic, and at the very least, take precautions following the procedure to ensure that infection doesn't occur.
Smoking, vigorous brushing and rinsing, and drinking liquids through straws are discouraged during the post-operative period because they hinder healing and may cause the wound to open. Cold compresses applied to the outside cheek near the extraction area can help reduce any swelling and promote faster healing.
Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth are the third and final set of molars that erupt in the back corners of the upper and lower normal adult mouth. Most people, unfortunately, do not have enough room in their mouths to allow full eruption of wisdom teeth. Because of this, there is a far greater risk of infection and pain surrounding them. This can affect the overall health of the patient as well as jeopardize the teeth adjacent to the wisdom teeth.
Many people need to have their wisdom teeth extracted to avoid future serious problems. In general, the lack of the four wisdom teeth does not hamper one's ability to properly bite down, speak or eat.