After Tooth Extraction

After tooth extraction by the oral surgeon, its important for a blood clot to form to stop the bleeding and begin the healing process. Thats why we ask you to bite on a gauze pad for 30-45 minutes after the appointment. If the bleeding or oozing still persists, place another gauze pad and bite firmly for another 30 minutes. You may have to do this several times.

Once the blood clot forms, it is important not to disturb or dislodge the clot as it aids healing. Do not rinse vigorously, suck on straws, smoke, drink alcohol or brush teeth next to the extraction site for 72 hours. These activities will dislodge or dissolve the clot and retard the healing process. Limit vigorous exercise for the next 24 hours, as this will increase blood pressure and may cause more bleeding from the extraction site.

After the tooth is extracted, you may feel some pain and experience some swelling. An ice pack or an unopened bag of frozen peas or corn applied to the area will keep swelling to a minimum. Take pain medications as prescribed. The swelling usually subsides after 48 hours.

Use the pain medication as directed. Call the 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 after 24 hours. This should include brushing and flossing your teeth at least once a day. This will speed healing and help keep your mouth fresh and clean. After a few days, you will feel fine and can resume your normal activities. If you have heavy bleeding, severe pain, continued swelling for 2-3 days, or a reaction to the medication, call our office immediately at (618) 519-9363.

What Comes Next?

At Shawnee Hills Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery in Carbondale, IL, we offer tooth replacement options to restore both function and aesthetics after an extraction. Our practice offers cutting-edge dental implant solutions, along with denture-stabilizing implants (mini implants), to meet the diverse needs of our patients.

Dental Implants

As a premier tooth replacement choice, dental implants are renowned for their durability and natural appearance. Our skilled oral surgeons carefully place biocompatible titanium implants into the jawbone during a minimally invasive surgical procedure. Over time, the implants fuse with the bone through osseointegration, providing a strong foundation for custom-made dental crowns. With dental implants, you can regain the ability to chew, speak, and smile with confidence, while also preserving the health of your jawbone.

Denture-Stabilizing Implants (Mini Implants)

For patients seeking an enhanced denture experience, we offer denture-stabilizing implants, also known as mini implants. These smaller-diameter implants can be used to stabilize removable dentures, providing a more secure fit and eliminating the discomfort and inconvenience of loose-fitting dentures. Our skilled oral surgeons place these mini implants with precision, and the dentures are then affixed to the implants, ensuring a stable and functional result.

Why Replace a Missing Tooth?

Beyond the obvious aesthetic concerns, there are several compelling reasons to address tooth loss:

Oral Health Stability: When a tooth is missing, neighboring teeth may shift into the empty space over time. This movement can lead to misalignment, bite problems, and potential jaw joint issues. By replacing the missing tooth, whether with a dental implant or denture-stabilizing implant, we ensure the stability and alignment of your remaining teeth.
Preservation of Jawbone: The roots of natural teeth play a crucial role in stimulating the jawbone, maintaining its strength and density. When a tooth is lost, the underlying jawbone can gradually deteriorate due to lack of stimulation. Dental implants serve as artificial tooth roots, promoting jawbone health through osseointegration, and preserving the bone structure.
Efficient Chewing and Speaking: A missing tooth can affect your ability to chew properly and articulate clearly. Dental implants and denture-stabilizing implants restore the full functionality of your teeth, enabling you to enjoy a varied diet and communicate with confidence.
Facial Aesthetics: The presence of all teeth contributes to the natural contours of your face. Tooth loss can lead to a sunken appearance or premature aging. Replacing missing teeth helps maintain facial integrity and supports a youthful look.
Psychological Well-being: Tooth loss can negatively impact self-esteem and lead to social discomfort. By restoring your smile, dental implants and denture-stabilizing implants instill a sense of confidence, improving your emotional well-being and overall quality of life.

Reclaim Your Complete Smile

At Shawnee Hills Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, our commitment to excellence in tooth replacement options for our patients in Carbondale means providing personalized care and tailored treatment plans to address your unique needs. Whether you opt for dental implants or denture-stabilizing implants, our experienced team is dedicated to restoring your smile’s function and beauty, enhancing your overall quality of life.