dental extraction Duncan OK Archives - Chisholm Trail

5 Aftercare Tips for A Dental Extraction

Identiwrite — Wed, 30 Jan 2019 11:36:07 +0000

Tooth extractions are no cause for cartwheels, but there are ways to successfully heal from your procedure, as well as help minimize pain and discomfort. At Chisholm Trail Smile Center, we prefer to save natural teeth whenever possible. But tooth removal is sometimes the only viable option to eliminate infection and reduce the risk for more serious dental issues. Today, our team offers ways to help you heal from your dental extraction procedure, while making pain a thing of the past.

#1: Medications

Once your tooth extraction is complete, your dentist will prescribe medications to alleviate pain, swelling, and other issues. It is imperative that you take all drugs as prescribed, even if you feel your condition has improved. Additionally, if you have side effects or develop complications from your prescribed therapies, such as an allergic reaction, contact your dentist immediately.

#2: Gauze Pads

Following your dental extraction, gauze pads are placed over the surgical site to promote blood clotting. It is common to experience slight bleeding and oozing from that area for the first 24 to 48 hours. In most cases, you can remove the gauze after the first 30 minutes. However, Dr. Bridges can provide you with a few extra gauze pads in case you need them.
If bleeding persists, try placing a moistened tea bag over the extraction site and gently close down for 15 minutes. The tannic acid in the tea will shrink the blood vessels and capillaries and reduce bleeding.

#3: Avoiding Smoking

If you are a smoker, now is not the time to light one up. Allow your mouth to heal from your extraction and eliminate smoking until your dentist says it is alright to resume. Many dentists may ask that you quit smoking for five days after your tooth extraction. Depending on your condition and health, you may be required to quit for an extended period of time. Smoking cigarettes after a tooth extraction can potentially dislodge the blood clot at the surgery site causing infection, dry sockets, or other post-operative complications. It is also important to understand that tobacco products have a negative impact on the body’s healing ability. Therefore, if you are thinking about kicking the habit for good, now is the time to do it.

#4: Ice and Moist Compresses

Another essential component of tooth extraction aftercare is the application of ice and moist compresses. Bags of ice or ice packs can be applied on the face near the site of the extraction, to reduce swelling. Compresses are also recommended to provide comfort. Check with your dentist, ensuring you are following a regimen that is promoting healing.

#5: Rest

After a tooth extraction, rest is important. We strongly advise patients to abstain from strenuous exercise for 48 to 72 hours. An elevated heart rate increases the likelihood of post-surgical bleeding, swelling, and discomfort. While resting or sleeping, be sure to keep your head slightly propped on your pillow.

Contact Metropolitan Dental Care to Learn More

Dr. Matthew L. Bridges and the dental team at Chisholm Trail Smile Center provide quality dental care to residents in Duncan, OK and surrounding areas. We take great pride in offering comprehensive dental procedures, including dental extractions. To learn more, or schedule an appointment, contact us online or by dialing (580) 255-4880. We are looking forward to serving all your dental needs.

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You Have Options After a Dental Extraction

Dr. Matthew Bridges — Sun, 18 Nov 2018 23:36:09 +0000

Although keeping a natural tooth is always preferable, a dental extraction can sometimes be necessary. For instance, one of your teeth might be too damaged or weakened to repair. However, getting a tooth removed does not mean you have to live forever with a gap in your smile. By working with Dr. Matthew Bridges at our Duncan, OK, office, you can choose the one perfect for your needs.

Had a dental extraction recently or a long time ago? Call us to make an appointment to talk about post-dental extraction choices.

Dental Implants Can Fill Missing Teeth Spaces

Considered a gold standard in fixed missing tooth replacement solutions, dental implants are one way to complete your smile after a dental extraction. Comprised of a titanium-based post, an abutment device, and a dental crown prosthetic, dental implants remain in place for years. With proper care and regular dental appointments, you can expect them to look beautiful and natural.

What are the benefits to choosing a dental implant?

Your tooth-colored and tooth-shaped dental implant will fit in with your smile.

The dental implant post will keep the surrounding jawbone stimulated and healthier.

You can eat any foods you want, as well as speak clearly.

Call our office today for a consultation on dental implants. If you are a candidate for the procedure, Dr. Bridges can help you plan for this safe treatment.

Dental Bridges Can Span a Smile Gap

Another post-dental extraction option for patients may be a dental bridge. Like a dental implant, a dental bridge fills the gap formed by a missing tooth or teeth. However, it is not surgically implanted under the gums in the jawbone. Instead, the adjacent teeth are prepared as “anchors” for a prosthetic tooth made of ceramic or porcelain. When placed, the dental bridge should last many years and look completely natural.

Although a dental bridge appliance does not stimulate the jawbone like a dental implant does because the bridge sits above–not in–the jawbone, it still offers several advantages for patients with missing teeth:

You can treat it as your normal teeth.

The teeth on either side of the gap will be less likely to shift.

Your smile will be complete, making you feel more confident.

Are you ready for a dental bridge after you have healed from your dental extraction? Dr. Bridges can help you decide during your next consultation.

Dentures Can Be Right for a Full Missing Arch

Did your dental extraction leave you without any teeth in your upper or lower arch? You could always be fitted for traditional dentures.

Dentures have been available for generations. Thanks to advances in restorative dentistry, they are more comfortable and lifelike than in past decades. If you are interested in learning about fixed dentures, rather than those that stay in the mouth with the help of adhesive products, you may want to explore the possibility of getting implant-supported dentures.

What are the pros of dentures?

Your face will look fuller and potentially younger.

You can eat more foods and speak with more confidence.

You will not have to worry about how you look when you smile or meet new people.

A Dental Extraction Is a Beginning, Not an End

Having a dental extraction can be a difficult choice. However, the treatment can open the doors for you to have a healthier smile. Talk to Dr. Bridges about services he offers for patients who are missing one or more teeth by making an appointment at our Duncan, OK, dental office today.

The post You Have Options After a Dental Extraction appeared first on Chisholm Trail.

When is a Dental Extraction Necessary?

Dr. Matthew Bridges — Wed, 24 Oct 2018 13:56:58 +0000

At Chisholm Trail Smile Center, Dr. Bridges prefers to save natural teeth whenever possible. That being said, there are certain instances in which tooth removal is the only viable option. Dr. Bridges can perform a dental extraction in Duncan, OK to help patients alleviate their discomfort and preserve their overall oral health.Do you have a toothache? A dental extraction in Duncan, OK may be an option for you. To learn more, contact Chisholm Trail Smile Center at (580) 255-4880.

Dental Extraction in Duncan, OK

Dr. Bridges uses gentle techniques and methods when performing a tooth extraction. After freeing the tooth from the surrounding tissues and ligaments, he carefully lifts it from the socket. In some cases, Dr. Bridges may divide the tooth into smaller segments for easier removal. At Chisholm Trail Smile Center, we offer nitrous oxide to alleviate anxiety and induce relaxation during treatment.

When is a Dental Extraction Necessary?

In many cases, an infected or damaged tooth can be repaired with root canal therapy. When this is not possible, however, tooth removal may be necessary. In the sections below, we will explore five common scenarios in which a dental extraction may be recommended.

Irreparable Damage

If a cavity or fracture extends into the pulp of a tooth, the damage could be irreparable. If root canal therapy has been ruled out, an extraction can be performed to eliminate infection and prevent bacteria from spreading to other teeth.

Advanced Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease begins as an infection in the gums. As the condition progresses, it can erode the jawbone that supports the teeth, causing mobility. If detected early, gum treatments can reduce bacteria levels and prevent future bone loss. However, if the condition has become advanced, affected teeth may need to be removed.

Impaction

If teeth become impacted in the jawbone, it can place excessive pressure on the neighboring teeth and increase the risk for dental infections. If an impacted tooth has a negative impact on your overall oral health, then a dental extraction may be necessary to treat the problem.

Overcrowding

When the teeth are overlapped or crowded, brushing and flossing is much more difficult. This is one primary reason so many individuals opt for orthodontic treatment. In some cases, overcrowding may be caused by a small jawbone or too many teeth. In these instances, dental extractions may be recommended before beginning orthodontic treatment. This will effectively make so that the remaining teeth can be moved into their desired positions.

Trauma

If you have sustained an injury, such as a fall, an automobile crash, or a sport-related accident, restorative dentistry can often repair the damage. For example, crowns, veneers, dental bonding, and bridges are all effective options for repairing or replacing damaged teeth. However, if the damage is extensive, a dental extraction may be necessary.
Of course, the only way to know for sure if you need a tooth extraction is to schedule a visit with your dentist. After evaluating the affected tooth, he or she can determine if it can be saved, or if removing it would be more predictable for your long-term oral health.

Contact Our Duncan, OK Practice Today

If you suspect you might need a dental extraction in Duncan, OK, schedule a consultation with Dr. Bridges. He can assess the affected tooth and determine an appropriate treatment plan. Contact us online or give us a call at (580) 255-4880 to learn more.

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