A tooth that is severely damaged may need to be removed. Before removing your tooth, your dentist will give you a local anesthetic to numb the area where the tooth will be removed. Nitrous Oxide Sedation and IV Conscience Sedation are other types of sedation that can be used along with the local anesthetic.
After the tooth is removed, you may need stitches. You can gently bite down on a cotton gauze pad placed over the wound to help stop the bleeding. The removed tooth can be replaced with an implant, a denture, or a bridge.
In most cases, the recovery period lasts only a few days. The following will help speed recovery:
Take medications as prescribed by your dentist.
Rinse your mouth with warm salt water several times a day to reduce swelling and relieve pain. Make your own salt water by mixing 1tsp (5g) of salt in a medium-sized glass [8fl oz] of warm water.
Change gauze pads before they become soaked with blood.
Relax after surgery. Physical activity may increase bleeding.
Eat soft foods, such as gelatin, pudding, or a thin soup. Gradually add solid foods to your diet as healing progresses.
Do not lie flat. This may prolong bleeding. Prop up your head with pillows.
Avoid rubbing the area with your tongue.
Continue to carefully brush your teeth and tongue.
The dentist will remove the stitches 5 to 7 days after the procedure.
