A Patient's Guide to Tooth Extractions: What to Expect Before and After Treatment

While dentists always aim to preserve natural teeth whenever possible, there are times when a tooth extraction is the healthiest option. At Aesthetic Smiles by Design, Dr. Orffa Masso provides safe, comfortable extractions using gentle techniques designed to protect your oral health and support smooth healing.

This guide explains why extractions may be necessary and what to expect after the procedure.

Why a Tooth May Need to Be Extracted

Tooth extractions are typically recommended only when other treatments cannot restore the tooth. Common reasons include:

Severe decay that has damaged too much of the tooth structure
Advanced gum disease causing loose or unstable teeth
Fractured or broken teeth that cannot be repaired
Problematic wisdom teeth that are impacted or causing crowding
Infection or abscess that does not respond to other treatments

Removing a compromised tooth prevents further pain, infection, and potential damage to surrounding teeth.

What Happens During an Extraction

Extractions can be simple (for visible teeth) or surgical (for teeth that are broken or not fully erupted). Regardless of the type, your comfort is the priority.

During your appointment:

The area is fully numbed with local anesthetic.
The tooth is gently loosened and removed.
If needed, the site is cleaned and sutures may be placed.
You will receive instructions to support proper healing.

The procedure is typically quick and designed to minimize discomfort.

What to Expect After Your Extraction

Some soreness is normal after an extraction, but following your dentist’s instructions helps ensure proper healing and reduces complications.

Essential Post-Op Instructions:

1. Control Bleeding

Bite gently on gauze for 30–45 minutes.
If bleeding continues, replace with fresh gauze or use a damp tea bag to promote clotting.

2. Protect the Blood Clot

Avoid the following for the first 24–48 hours:

Drinking through straws
Smoking or vaping
Forceful spitting
Rinsing vigorously

These actions can disturb the clot and increase the risk of dry socket.

3. Manage Discomfort

Mild swelling is normal; apply an ice pack intermittently during the first 24 hours.
Over-the-counter pain relievers or medications recommended by Dr. Masso can help.

4. Eating and Drinking

Stick to soft foods like yogurt, soup, eggs, or mashed potatoes for the first day.
Avoid hard, crunchy, or spicy foods that may irritate the area.

5. Oral Hygiene

Continue brushing and flossing, but avoid the extraction site for the first 24 hours.
After one day, you may gently rinse with warm salt water to soothe the area.

Healing and Follow-Up

Most patients heal significantly within a few days, though complete healing of the socket may take a few weeks. If you experience increasing pain, prolonged bleeding, or signs of infection, contact Aesthetic Smiles by Design or seek emergency care promptly.