Tooth Extraction

The Right Step for Strong Smiles: Expert Tooth Extraction!

Tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth from the bone socket by a dentist or surgical specialist and is usually performed under local anaesthetic. This procedure, which is performed for various reasons such as decay, trauma or orthodontic requirements, is carefully performed to prevent pain and infection. The healing process after extraction may take a few days and during this period, it is ensured that the process is more comfortable with care recommendations such as ice compress, rest, consumption of soft foods.

Dental equipment holding an extracted tooth (wisdom tooth)

What You Should Know About Tooth Extraction

What is Tooth Extraction?

Tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth from the bone socket by a dentist or maxillofacial surgeon under local, general or intravenous anaesthesia. Simple tooth extraction refers to the removal of teeth visible in the mouth under local anaesthesia.

In children, tooth extraction is performed to make room for the permanent tooth coming from below or to remove decayed teeth that cannot be saved. In adults, tooth extraction is usually performed in teeth that cannot be saved by root canal treatment, tissue loss due to trauma or decay, orthodontic cases with excess teeth or impacted teeth that have lost their function. For example, if wisdom teeth are a problem, they can be extracted.

What Should Be Considered Before Tooth Extraction?

Tooth extraction is a common dental procedure, but certain precautions must be taken to ensure patient safety and optimal healing. Here are the key considerations:

1. Medical History and Health Conditions

Patients should disclose their full medical history to the dentist. Specific conditions, such as the following, require special precautions:

Artificial Heart Valves: Increased risk of infection (infective endocarditis).
Congenital Heart Defects: Patients may need antibiotic prophylaxis.
Weakened Immune System: Caused by chronic illnesses or medications.

2. Risk of Infection

Harmful bacteria can enter the bloodstream during an extraction. Patients at risk of infections may be prescribed antibiotics as a preventive measure. This includes individuals with:

Heart conditions or recent surgeries.
Autoimmune disorders or undergoing chemotherapy.

3. Pre-Procedure Consultation

The dentist will evaluate your overall health, oral condition, and any underlying risks.
A treatment plan will be created, including steps for preparation, such as halting specific medications if required.

4. Medication Guidelines

Antibiotics: Only take antibiotics if prescribed by your doctor or dentist. Unnecessary or improper use can lead to antibiotic resistance.
Blood Thinners: Inform your dentist if you are on medications like aspirin or warfarin. Adjustments may be needed to prevent excessive bleeding.

5. Oral Hygiene and Nutrition

Brush and floss gently before the procedure to reduce bacteria in the oral cavity.
Avoid heavy meals or alcohol before your appointment, as they may interfere with the procedure.

By following these precautions and communicating openly with your dentist, you can ensure a safer and smoother tooth extraction experience.

Healing Process After Tooth Extraction

Healing after a tooth extraction is a natural process that typically follows a series of steps to ensure proper recovery. Here’s what you can expect and how to care for the extraction site:

1. Formation of Blood Clot

Immediately after the tooth is removed, a blood clot forms at the extraction site. This clot is essential as it protects the wound, prevents excessive bleeding, and promotes healing. Avoid disturbing the clot by refraining from rinsing, spitting forcefully, or using straws for the first 24 hours.

2. Initial Inflammation (First 24-48 Hours)

Some swelling and mild discomfort are normal during this phase. To manage these symptoms:

Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek for 10-15 minutes at a time.
Take any prescribed or over-the-counter pain medications as directed by your dentist.

3. Tissue Healing (Days 3-7)

As the swelling subsides, the body begins repairing the soft tissue. During this stage, follow these guidelines:

Maintain gentle oral hygiene to keep the area clean.
Rinse with a saltwater solution to reduce bacteria and promote healing.
Avoid smoking or consuming alcohol, as these can interfere with the healing process.

4. Bone Healing (Weeks 2-4)

The underlying bone and gums will continue to heal during this period. You may notice the socket starting to close. Stick to soft foods if needed and avoid chewing directly on the extraction site.

5. Full Recovery (4-6 Weeks)

For most patients, complete recovery occurs within 4 to 6 weeks. Larger extractions, such as wisdom teeth removal, may take longer. By this time, the soft tissue has fully healed, and the site is stable.

When to Contact Your Dentist

If you experience excessive bleeding, severe pain, signs of infection (such as fever or pus), or dry socket symptoms (exposed bone, bad taste, or persistent pain), contact your dentist immediately.

Proper aftercare is crucial for a smooth recovery. Follow your dentist’s instructions closely to ensure optimal healing and prevent complications.

How Tooth Extraction Is Performed

The tooth extraction is usually performed under local anaesthesia and may require cutting the gum and bone tissue if necessary. The blood clot formed after the extraction starts the healing process and bleeding is controlled with gauze. In complicated cases, if the clot drops, there may be a risk of infection and treatment is applied.

What should be considered after tooth extraction?

The healing process after the extraction may take several days. Control of bleeding, use of painkillers, ice compresses and physical rest are recommended. Movements that create negative pressure should be avoided within 24 to 48 hours after extraction. After 24 hours, you can gargle lightly with salt water.

Recovery after tooth extraction

The initial healing period is usually 1-2 weeks. Since tooth loss can cause neighbouring teeth to shift, implant or fixed bridge treatments may be recommended.

How Much Does Tooth Extraction Cost?

Since there are many factors affecting tooth extraction, from patient health to tooth complexity, pricing is communicated to our patients after the consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions

1Is tooth extraction a painful procedure?

Since tooth extraction is performed under local anaesthesia, no pain is felt during the procedure. However, there may be a slight pain after the anaesthesia wears off. This pain can usually be easily managed with prescription painkillers or cold compresses. Especially in the case of impacted or difficult tooth extractions, more careful care is recommended. If the pain intensifies or persists for a long time, you should consult your doctor as it may be a sign of an underlying infection.

2 How long does it take for swelling to go away after tooth extraction?

Swelling after extraction usually peaks in the first 48 hours and then subsides. The application of ice compresses helps to relieve this swelling. It may take up to a week for the swelling to go down completely, but the healing process may vary for each individual. If the swelling increases instead of decreasing or if the pain persists, it is best to consult your doctor in case of infection.

3Should I take antibiotics after tooth extraction?

Antibiotics are not necessary for every tooth extraction. However, if the risk of infection is high or the patient belongs to a group with a weakened immune system, the doctor may prescribe antibiotics. Antibiotics may be necessary to prevent infection, especially in abscessed teeth or in the presence of periodontal disease. You should use antibiotics according to your doctor's recommendations and complete the treatment process.

4How long does bleeding occur after tooth extraction?

Light bleeding for a few hours after tooth extraction is normal. In the first 24 hours, lightly biting the area with gauze placed in the area controls the bleeding. It is important to avoid excessively hot or cold drinks and hard foods to prevent bleeding from continuing. If the bleeding lasts longer than 24 hours or does not stop on its own, you should contact your dentist.

5What should be done in case of bleeding after tooth extraction?

Bleeding is normal for a few hours after the extraction. Hot and cold foods should be avoided. In severe bleeding, a physician should be consulted.

6When can I resume oral care after tooth extraction?

Oral care after tooth extraction should be done carefully. You should stay away from the extraction site while brushing your teeth for the first 24 hours. After 24 hours, you can start brushing gently by approaching the extraction site with sensitivity. Mild mouthwash with salt water helps healing and prevents infection. You should avoid direct contact with the extraction site.

7Can I drink hot and cold drinks after tooth extraction?

It is recommended to avoid extremely hot or cold drinks in the first 24 hours after tooth extraction. Such drinks may cause the blood clot to dislodge and slow healing. Room temperature or slightly cool drinks should be preferred. In particular, iced drinks or very hot drinks can cause the clot to break down and increase the risk of infection.

8When can I return to work or school after tooth extraction?

Tooth extraction usually does not interfere with daily activities and most patients can return to work or school the next day. However, difficult tooth extractions or extractions of impacted teeth may require several days of rest. Especially those who work in heavy physical labour or do activities that require effort are recommended to rest for the period recommended by their dentist. Vigorous activity may increase bleeding or swelling and prolong the healing process.

9What is the harm of smoking after tooth extraction?

Smoking after tooth extraction negatively affects the healing process. Smoking narrows the blood vessels, reduces blood flow to the area and slows healing. It can also cause the blood clot to dislodge by creating negative pressure. Avoiding smoking for at least 48 hours after the extraction is important to reduce the risk of infection and ensure a healthy recovery.

10Is there bad breath after tooth extraction?

After tooth extraction, a slight bad breath may occur during the healing process, usually due to the blood accumulated in the extraction area and the healing process. Mouthwash with salt water can help to reduce this odour. However, if bad breath persists for a long time or becomes severe, it may be a sign of infection and you should contact your doctor.

11Can I do sports after tooth extraction?

It is important to avoid heavy exercise in the first 24 hours after tooth extraction. Physical activities may increase blood pressure and cause bleeding to start again or increase existing bleeding. It is best to limit yourself to light activities for the first few days and return to your regular sports routine after receiving approval from your physician.

12What are the symptoms of inflammation after tooth extraction?

Symptoms such as increased pain, fever, swelling and bad odour during the first 2-3 days indicate inflammation. In this case, consult your physician.

13Can teeth be extracted during pregnancy?

Tooth extraction during pregnancy is possible but must be authorised by the obstetrician.

14When does the cavity close after tooth extraction?

After the extraction, the cavity begins to close within a few days. Soft tissue heals in 2-3 weeks and bone in 6 months.

15How to extract a broken teeth?

Fractured tooth extraction is a similar procedure to extraction of intact teeth. Special protocols are applied if there are root complications.

16How to brush teeth after tooth extraction?

Mouth hygiene is important but should be done away from the filming area.

Dr. Ayşenur Kayımbaşıoğlu

Dr. Ayşenur Kayımbaşıoğlu, Cosmetic Dentist, DDS, Cosmetologist, is a skilled Cosmetic Dentist and the Clinic Director of AuraDent Aesthetic Clinic in Nicosia. With a strong background in dental and facial aesthetics, she is dedicated to delivering natural, confident smiles through personalized treatment plans. Known for her gentle approach and attention to detail, Dr. Kayımbaşıoğlu combines advanced techniques with a passion for aesthetic harmony.