At our Cockeysville dental office, we perform tooth extractions for a variety of reasons, ensuring that each patient’s comfort is a priority throughout the process. Whether it’s for an infected tooth, as a part of preparation for orthodontic treatment, or to make room for dentures, getting a tooth pulled is a relatively common procedure. Dr. Weiss and Dr. Burnstein take every step to ensure that you are well-informed and prepared for your aftercare needs.
If your procedure involves a sedative or general anesthesia, it’s important to plan for someone to drive you home from your appointment. We want to make sure you are relaxed and safe during your recovery process.
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, often appear during the late teen years to early 20s. These teeth can lead to crowding, pain, and discomfort as they may not have enough space to emerge properly. We commonly remove wisdom teeth if x-rays reveal they are impacted or if you begin experiencing pain from them. In some cases, the extraction of these teeth can help prevent further complications and misalignment in your mouth.
Orthodontia
Though we do not offer orthodontic services in our office, we work closely with local orthodontists. Many times, we are referred patients who require tooth extractions as part of their orthodontic treatment. Tooth extractions before braces may be recommended to create the necessary space for proper alignment and to ensure the best results from your orthodontic care.
Tooth extractions are often needed when preparing for dentures. Whether you’re getting partial or full dentures, we evaluate each case individually. While we always aim to preserve healthy teeth, if necessary, we can perform a full mouth extraction for those who need complete dentures. This is a more involved process, but one that we are experienced in handling, ensuring that the transition to full dentures is as smooth and comfortable as possible.
If Dr. Weiss or Dr. Burnstein notices any abnormalities in your mouth during an exam, they may recommend a biopsy. This typically involves removing a small sample of tissue, which will then be sent to a lab for diagnosis. We usually receive the results within a week, and our team will contact you to discuss what comes next, providing you with all the information and support you need.
Before you leave our office following your tooth extraction, we will provide you with detailed written instructions on what to expect during your recovery. These instructions will cover:
Dietary Guidelines: What foods are safe to eat and what to avoid (e.g., hard, crunchy, or hot foods).
Managing Bleeding and Pain: How to manage any discomfort, as well as advice on how to deal with any minor bleeding that may occur.
Swelling Management: Steps to reduce swelling, including the use of ice packs and recommended resting positions.
Follow-up Appointments: We’ll schedule a follow-up appointment, if necessary, to ensure that your recovery is progressing as expected.
It is very important to follow these aftercare instructions to avoid complications such as dry socket or infection. We will be available to answer any questions and provide assistance during your healing process.
To schedule a tooth extraction or to discuss whether this procedure is right for you, call our Cockeysville dental office at 410-666-9266. If this is an emergency, please call us early in the day so we can accommodate you as quickly as possible. If you’re calling after hours, the answering machine will provide instructions on what to do next.
Does getting a tooth pulled hurt?
We do everything we can to ensure your comfort during a tooth extraction. Local anesthesia is used to numb the area, and if needed, we offer sedation options. You may feel pressure during the procedure but should not feel pain.
How long does it take to recover from a tooth extraction?
Most patients start to feel significantly better after 2–3 days. Complete healing of the extraction site can take 1–2 weeks, depending on the complexity of the extraction and your body’s healing process. We’ll provide detailed aftercare instructions to promote smooth healing.
Can I drive myself home after a tooth extraction?
If your procedure involves local anesthesia only, you may be able to drive yourself home. However, if you receive sedation or general anesthesia, you will need someone to drive you home and stay with you for a short time afterward.
What should I eat after a tooth extraction?
Stick to soft foods such as yogurt, applesauce, mashed potatoes, and smoothies for the first 24–48 hours. Avoid hot, spicy, crunchy, or hard foods that could irritate the extraction site or dislodge the blood clot.
When should I contact your office after a tooth extraction?
Call us if you experience severe pain, persistent bleeding, swelling that worsens after 2–3 days, or signs of infection such as fever. We’re here to help and will guide you through any post-procedure concerns.
