Extractions

If a tooth is causing you pain and all other treatment options have been considered ie. Filling, Root Canal Therapy or Crowns, then the tooth will be extracted. There are various options available to fill in the space that is left once the tooth is removed.

Wisdom teeth, especially lower ones, can cause pain and swelling due to infection, especially if there is not enough room for them in the jaw and they are only partially erupted. The infection is caused by plaque sitting around the gums. If they are causing problems, they can be removed in the dental chair, or we can arrange to have them removed under a general anaesthetic at the Knox Surgicentre.

If they appear to be very complicated, we can also refer you to our local Oral Surgeon.

Post Extraction Instructions

Below are steps that you can follow to help reduce pain, bleeding and promote healing.

• Keep the gauze in place with pressure for approximately half and hour after leaving the surgery. Change the gauze every 30 minutes as is necessary.
• Do NOT rinse your mouth for at least 24 hours and after that only EXTREMELY GENTLY with luke warm water with 1 teaspoon of salt.
• Avoid strenuous exercise for 48 hours and rest with the head raised.
• Where advised or if pain is present, take ibuprofen or nurofen 400mg every 4 hours for the next 24 hours, PLUS panadol or panadeine 500mg to be taken 2 hours after ibuprofen or nurofen and then every 4 hours thereafter for 24 hours.
• AVOID eating for at least 1 hour after the extraction, and alcohol and smoking for at least 2 days. When numbness has gone choose luke warm liquids and soft foods and chew away from the wound.
• If significant bleeding continues or pain persists, contact the surgery on 9874 0077.
• No smoking or drinking alcohol for at least 48 hours after extraction.