Restorative Dentistry

Tooth Extractions in Upland

Dr. Kueckels and you may decide that a tooth extraction is necessary for various reasons. Some teeth may be removed due to severe decay, while others could be affected by advanced periodontal disease or broken beyond repair. In certain cases, teeth may need extraction because they are improperly positioned (such as impacted teeth) or as part of preparations for orthodontic treatment. We perform basic extractions in-house. Our patient’s health and wellbeing is our priority. For more complicated extractions, we will work closely with some of the best oral surgeons in the area to provide you the care you deserve.

During your tooth extraction, Dr. Kueckels will first numb the tooth, jawbone, and surrounding gums with a local anesthetic to ensure your comfort.

Throughout the extraction, you may feel significant pressure as the tooth is gently rocked to widen the socket for removal. While the anesthetic effectively blocks the nerves that transmit pain, allowing you to feel pressure without discomfort, the nerves that sense pressure remain active.

If you experience any pain during the procedure, please let us know immediately so we can address it and keep you as comfortable as possible.

After a tooth extraction, allowing a blood clot to form is essential for stopping bleeding and starting the healing process. To promote clot formation, bite down on a gauze pad for 30 to 45 minutes immediately after your appointment. If you notice bleeding or oozing continues, replace the gauze and bite down firmly for another 30 minutes. You may need to repeat this process a few times to effectively control the bleeding.

Once the blood clot has formed, it’s crucial to avoid disturbing it. For the first 72 hours, steer clear of activities that could dislodge the clot, such as rinsing vigorously, using straws, smoking, drinking alcohol, or brushing your teeth near the extraction site. Additionally, refrain from vigorous exercise for at least 24 hours, as increased blood pressure could lead to more bleeding.

After your extraction, it’s normal to experience some pain and swelling. To reduce swelling, apply an ice pack or a bag of frozen peas or corn to the affected area. Swelling usually subsides within 48 hours, and it’s important to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding any prescribed pain medications.

If the prescribed pain medication does not alleviate your discomfort, please contact our office for guidance. Additionally, if you’ve been prescribed antibiotics, be sure to complete the entire course, even if symptoms of infection improve. Stay hydrated and stick to soft, nutritious foods on the day of the extraction, gradually returning to your normal diet as you feel comfortable.

After 24 hours, you can resume your regular dental routine, including gentle brushing and flossing, to help speed up the healing process and maintain good oral hygiene.

You should start feeling better within a few days and can return to your normal activities. However, if you experience heavy bleeding, severe pain, persistent swelling after 2 to 3 days, or any adverse reactions to medication, please call our office immediately.