If you’re experiencing severe tooth pain, you may be wondering if you need an emergency tooth extraction. Here’s what you need to know about emergency tooth extractions, including when they’re necessary. You may visit an emergency dentist for additional info.
When is an Emergency Tooth Extraction Necessary?
An emergency tooth extraction is only necessary if the tooth is causing pain, is infected, or is severely damaged. If you are experiencing any of these issues, you should see a dentist as soon as possible.
Tooth pain can be caused by a variety of things, including tooth decay, a cracked tooth, an abscessed tooth, or gum disease. If you are experiencing tooth pain, it is important to see a dentist to determine the cause. If the pain is caused by an infection, the dentist may prescribe antibiotics. If the pain is due to a cracked tooth, the dentist may recommend a crown. If the pain is caused by tooth decay, the dentist will likely recommend a filling.
An infected tooth can cause a great deal of pain and may require a root canal. An abscessed tooth is a serious infection that can damage the jawbone. If you think you may have an abscessed tooth, you should see a dentist immediately.
A severely damaged tooth may need to be extracted. This can happen if the tooth is cracked, chipped, or broken. If a tooth is severely damaged, it may be necessary to remove it to avoid further damage to the mouth.
What Can I Expect After an Emergency Tooth Extraction?
After the procedure, you can expect some bleeding and swelling. To help with the bleeding, bite on a gauze pad for 30-45 minutes. To help with the swelling, apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek for 20 minutes at a time.
You may also have some pain and discomfort after the procedure. It’s also recommended to take over-the-counter pain medication, such as ibuprofen, as needed. You can also try using a topical pain reliever, such as a mouth rinse or gel. It’s important to follow your dentist’s instructions for caring for the extraction site. This may include rinsing with salt water, avoiding smoking, and not drinking from a straw.
It’s normal for the gum tissue around the extraction site to form a blood clot. This clot helps to protect the bone and nerves while the area heals. The healing typically occurs within a few days to a week. However, it may take longer for the bone and gum tissue to fully heal. You should avoid chewing on the side of your mouth where the tooth was extracted.
Emergency Tooth Extraction Aftercare
If you’ve had an emergency tooth extraction, you’ll need to take care of the area to promote healing. This usually involves keeping the area clean, eating soft foods, and avoiding smoking.
To keep the area clean, gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water several times a day. You can also use a soft toothbrush to lightly clean the area. Be sure to avoid brushing too hard or using any mouthwash that contains alcohol.
Eating soft foods is important for a few reasons. First, it will be easier on your extraction site. Second, it will help you avoid chewing on the area, which can cause pain and bleeding. Finally, soft foods are often easier to digest, which can be helpful if your mouth is sore.
Some examples of soft foods include:
- soup
- yogurt
- applesauce
- milkshakes
- pudding
- scrambled eggs
It’s also important to avoid smoking after an emergency tooth extraction. Smoking can delay healing and increase the risk of complications. If you smoke, it’s best to wait at least 24 hours before resuming.
If you have any pain or swelling after your emergency tooth extraction, you can take over-the-counter pain medication such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Be sure to follow the instructions on the label.
If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to contact your dentist. They can give you specific instructions on how to care for your extraction site.
Back to top: Do I Need An Emergency Tooth Extraction? Here’s What You Need To Know