There are times when there is no other choice but to remove a tooth. Examples of these times are very advanced decay, periodontal disease, infections, and pieces that have not sprouted completely or are not in the correct position.
Whether it is a simple or more complex surgery such as the removal of an impacted tooth, there is specific care you need to consider before and after a tooth extraction for the wound to heal as quickly as possible and to avoid unnecessary infections and complications.
Do you know what you should consider before a tooth extraction?
Initially when this occurs, you need to make sure you know all of the treatment options available to you. A tooth extraction is permanent and irreversible and you should think strongly about the decision.
If you already have an appointment with your oral surgeon to extract your wisdom teeth, or if you would like to treat the tooth that has not yet sprouted on one of your children’s mouth, you should consider the following. Below we provide general recommendations, however it is critical you also speak with your dentist or dental surgeon.
Taking care of your teeth and preparing for surgery is crucial
- For adults, this means zero alcohol: Avoid alcoholic drinks two days before the procedure and after surgery. If your dentist prescribes you antibiotics, you should also avoid alcohol.
- Avoid heavy meals the night before and try to get enough sleep so that you are well rested.
- If the procedure requires strong anesthesia and/or sedation (as in the case of extraction of wisdom teeth) you can not drive. Make arrangements for someone else to take you and bring you to the dentist’s office.
- The surgeon may tell you to take antibiotics before the procedure to prevent germs from the mouth to enter the bloodstream during surgery. This is usually done if the patient has a condition that makes it difficult to fight off infections such as damaged artificial heart valves, congenital heart defects, diabetes, weakened immune system, or if the patient takes steroids.
- If you are taking any prescription medication, especially if it is a blood thinner, inform your surgeon, as this may interfere with clotting and healing. You may also need to temporarily stop taking over-the-counter pain medication that can affect the process of blood clotting. Supplements such as ginko biloba and ginseng can also increase bleeding and it is better to stop taking them before surgery.