Extractions in Jacksonville, FL
Our Extraction Procedure
The Extraction Process
Before we begin, we’ll carefully numb your tooth, jawbone, and surrounding gums with local anesthesia to keep you comfortable. You’ll feel some pressure during the procedure as we gently rock the tooth to widen the socket, but you shouldn’t feel pain. If you do, just let us know right away—we’ll make sure you stay at ease throughout.
Sectioning a Tooth
In some cases, a tooth may need to be sectioned. This simply means dividing the tooth into smaller pieces to make removal easier and gentler on the surrounding bone. It’s a common and safe technique we use when a tooth is firmly anchored or has curved roots.
Caring for Your Healing Mouth
Once your tooth is removed, it’s important to allow a blood clot to form to begin the healing process. Bite gently but firmly on a gauze pad for 30–45 minutes after your procedure. If bleeding continues, replace the gauze and bite down again for another 30 minutes. You may need to repeat this a few times.
To protect the blood clot and aid healing:
- Avoid vigorous rinsing, using straws, smoking, or drinking alcohol for 72 hours.
- Skip brushing near the extraction site for the first day.
- Limit exercise for the first 24 hours to avoid increasing blood flow and bleeding.
It’s normal to feel some discomfort and swelling after an extraction. Applying an ice pack to the area can help minimize swelling, especially in the first 48 hours. Take any prescribed pain medication as directed, and if you’ve been given antibiotics, be sure to complete the full course.
Stick to soft, nutritious foods on the day of your extraction and stay hydrated. Once you feel ready, you can return to your normal eating habits.
After 24 hours, it’s important to resume gentle brushing and flossing to keep your mouth clean and support healing.
You should start feeling better after a few days. If you experience heavy bleeding, severe pain, continued swelling after 2–3 days, or any reaction to medication, call us right away—we’re here for you.
Learn More About Tooth Extractions
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