Posted .

Whenever possible, you should try to keep all of your natural teeth. However, if your tooth is severely damaged or decayed, it may be impossible to save it, or it may pose a hazard to your mouth or your other teeth.

If an extraction becomes necessary, our dentist, Dr. Joel R. Bingham will numb your tooth and the area around it. Then, he will loosen the tooth with a tool called an elevator, before extracting it with a pair of forceps. Then, the dentist will send you home after scheduling you for a follow-up visit, to make sure the site is healing properly and to discuss your options for replacing your missing tooth.

A blood clot will form in the bottom of the empty socket. That blood clot is very important. The extraction will leave your jaw one and nerves exposed, and that blood clot is protecting your body. If the blood clot is disturbed, you will run the risk of infection. This is a condition known as dry socket, and if it affects you, you will probably know about it, since it is usually accompanied by intense pain. If that happens, contact the dentist, who will clean it and dress it. But the best thing to do is to avoid dry socket altogether. To avoid dry socket, don’t brush the extraction area for the first 24 hours. Instead, gently rinse your mouth with a mixture of salt and water, while very gently brushing your other teeth. If you feel like eating after your extraction, stick to cool and soft foods and try to keep the food on the opposite side of your mouth. Smoking can increase the risk of infection and the act of smoking can create suction that can rupture or dislodge the clot. Using a straw can have the same effect.

If you have a tooth that has been giving you problems, you should make an appointment at for an exam in Nampa, Idaho. You can call 208-466-6161 if you would like to schedule your visit to Premier Dental Care.