Tooth Extractions An Overview
Nashua, New Hampshire dentists Dr. Tara Vogel and Dr. Keith Levesque will always strive to conserve your natural oral structure and avoid a tooth extraction whenever possible.
However, there are situations where a tooth extraction is necessary for your general oral health or tooth development.
A tooth extraction entails the removal of teeth from the dental socket in the bone. Extractions are performed for a wide variety of reasons, but most commonly to remove teeth that have become unrestorable through tooth decay, gum disease, or dental trauma, especially when they are associated with a toothache.
The removal of wisdom teeth is a common type of tooth extraction. In many cases, we can perform a tooth extraction in our Nashua dental office; however, there may be cases where we refer you to a local oral surgeon.
Once the tooth is removed (unless it’s a wisdom tooth), it is important to replace it.
At Levesque Dentistry, we offer a variety of treatment options for missing teeth. The most common treatments include dental implants and implant-secured bridges and dentures.
Tooth Extractions What to Expect
A simple tooth extraction is performed using a local anesthetic, producing minimal discomfort for most patients. Once you are relaxed and comfortable, Dr. Vogel or Dr. Levesque will gently release the tooth by separating it from the ligaments and attaching it to the bone and gum tissue.
With a rocking motion, the tooth will slowly be removed from its socket. We will place stitches if needed or fill the space with gauze to minimize bleeding.
You will be given any pertinent aftercare information and may need to be on a soft diet for a short period of time for an easy, healthy recovery.
If at any time after an extraction you experience sudden or acute pain or bleeding restarts, contact us immediately so we can assess your condition and offer care or advice.
Tooth Extraction Aftercare
Immediately after the procedure, we will place a piece of gauze over the extraction site. You should bite down firmly on the gauze to control bleeding and help a blood clot form. This clot protects the bone and nerves in the empty socket, so it is crucial not to disturb it.
Keep the gauze in place for the first 30–45 minutes, and replace it with a fresh piece if bleeding continues. Slight oozing is normal, but heavy or prolonged bleeding should be reported to your dentist right away.
Rest is another key part of aftercare. Plan to take it easy for the first 24 hours after the extraction. Avoid strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, or bending over, as these activities can increase blood pressure and disrupt the clot. When resting, keep your head elevated with an extra pillow to minimize swelling. Ice packs applied to the cheek for 10–20 minutes at a time can also reduce swelling and ease discomfort.
Be mindful of what you eat and drink following an extraction. Stick to soft foods such as yogurt, mashed potatoes, smoothies, or scrambled eggs during the first day or two. Avoid hot, spicy, crunchy, or chewy foods that could irritate the site. Hydration is important, but do not use a straw for at least 48 hours, as the suction can dislodge the clot and lead to dry socket. Instead, drink from a glass and take small sips.
Oral hygiene must continue, but with care. You can brush your other teeth as usual, but avoid brushing directly over the extraction site for the first day. After 24 hours, gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water several times a day, especially after meals, to keep the area clean. Do not use mouthwash containing alcohol until we advise that it is safe to do so.
Pain and swelling are normal for a few days after a tooth extraction. We may prescribe medication or recommend over-the-counter pain relievers. Take these as directed, and avoid aspirin, which can increase bleeding.
If you have wisdom teeth coming in or have severely infected teeth, we can help. Schedule an appointment with us online or call Levesque Dentistry today at (603) 547-9203.
