How do I know if I need an extraction?

 

Dr. Wilson Leung and Dr. Katherine Leung may determine that you need a tooth extraction for various reasons.

 

Some teeth have to be removed because they are severely decayed; others may have advanced periodontal disease that may lead to infection, or have broken in a way that cannot be repaired. Other teeth may need removal because they are poorly positioned in the mouth (such as impacted wisdom teeth), or in preparation for orthodontic treatment.

​

A single tooth extraction may lead to future issues with chewing, your jaw joint, and shifting teeth, which will have a major impact on your oral health. To avoid these complications Dr. Leung will discuss all risk, benefits, alternatives to treatment prior to treatment.

​

What to Expect

 

At the time of extraction, we will fully anesthetize your tooth, jawbone, and gums surrounding the area with local anesthetic. We will ensure that you are completely numb before proceeding further. 

​

Once you are fully anesthetized, you will still feel a lot of pressure. The reason why you still feel pressure is because the anesthesia numbed the nerves, stopping nerves from transferring pain. However, the nerves that transmit pressure are not as affected.

​

POST-OPERATIVE INSTRUCTIONS

​

After tooth extraction, it’s important for a blood clot to form to stop the bleeding and begin the healing process. We will have you bite firmly on gauze for 30 to 45 minutes immediately after the appointment. If the bleeding or oozing persists, place another gauze pad (we'll provide you extra) and bite on it another 30 minutes. Another option is to bite on a damp black tea bag. Soak a black tea bag in cold water for a few minutes, wring out extra water, and place it on the extraction site. Bite gently. The tannins in tea help promote clot formation. 

​

After the blood clot forms, it is important not to disturb or dislodge the clot. Do not smoke, rinse vigorously, use straws, drink alcohol or chew on food next to the extraction site for 72 hours. These activities may dislodge or dissolve the clot and hinder the healing process.

 

Limit vigorous exercise for the next 24 hours, as this increases blood pressure and may cause more bleeding from the extraction site.

​

AFTER YOUR APPOINTMENT

​

After the tooth is extracted you may feel some pain and experience some swelling. Maximum swelling typically occurs on the second adn third day following an extraction. You can use an ice pack to alleviate swelling during the first 24 hours. After, use a warm compress and place it on the affected area for 15 min throughout the day.

 

Take pain medications as prescribed and directed.

​

Call our office if the medication doesn’t seem to be working. If antibiotics are prescribed, continue to take them for the indicated length of time even if signs and symptoms of infection are gone.

​

Drink lots of fluids and eat nutritious, soft food on the day of the extraction. You can eat normally as soon as you are comfortable. It is important to resume your normal dental routine, including brushing and flossing. This will speed up healing and help keep your mouth fresh and clean.

​

After a few days you should feel fine, and be able to resume your normal activities.

 

If you have heavy bleeding, severe pain, continued swelling for two to three days, or a reaction to the medication, call our Hayward office immediately.

​

​

Contact Leung Dental

If you are looking for a caring and thorough dentist in the Hayward area, we encourage you to make an appointment with Dr. Wilson Leung and Dr. Katherine Leung by calling us at 510-886-8899, or by clicking here!

 

Each member of our staff is dedicated to ensuring that our patients are always comfortable and well-informed during their visits with us. We look forward to your call and welcoming you to the Leung Dental family.  

​

​

​