If all options to save a natural tooth have been exhausted, your dentist may need to extract a tooth. Tooth extractions are common procedures. However, it is crucial that you follow your post-procedure instructions as directed by your dentist. These instructions will advise you to avoid hot liquids, such as coffee, tea, hot cider, cocoa, etc., for the first few days after your extraction.
Why Do I Need to Avoid Hot Beverages After Having a Tooth Pulled?
Your body will begin forming a blood clot immediately after a tooth is pulled. The clot is essential for the extraction site to heal because it helps to protect the empty socket from bacteria accumulation. It also protects the nerves and underlying bone while your body grows new soft tissue to cover the hole.
Hot foods and beverages can dislodge this blood clot, leading to a painful condition known as a dry socket.
Recovering from a Tooth Extraction
You’re in good company if you must have a permanent tooth pulled. Millions of Americans have a tooth extracted each year. There are two types of extraction:
Your dentist will remove a permanent tooth that is above the gum line.
Your dentist will remove a tooth that is impacted (beneath the gum line)
Recovery from a simple extraction is faster. You must avoid hot beverages and hard, spicy, or chewy foods for a few days. You will also be instructed to avoid brushing the extraction site in the days following the procedure. You should not drink from a straw, as the sucking motion can dislodge the blood clot. Your dentist will likely also advise that you rinse your mouth with antimicrobial mouthwash for several days following your procedure.
Recovery from a surgical extraction can take a bit longer, and you may experience more discomfort. Your dentist may prescribe over-the-counter pain medication or antibiotics. Avoid hot, chewy, spicy foods. You should also avoid smoking, using a straw, or vaping. You should avoid strenuous activity for a few days, as an increased heart rate can promote bleeding. You’ll be given medicated mouthwash to keep the surgical site clean.
Reasons a Tooth May Need to Be Pulled
Millions of people have teeth extracted each year. Conditions that necessitate an extraction include:
Wherever possible, your dentist will attempt to save natural teeth. Natural teeth can often be preserved with dental restorations, including dental fillings and crowns. In many cases, even a severely decayed tooth may be saved with a root canal. Your dentist will only extract a tooth if all efforts to restore it have failed.
Options for Replacing an Extracted Tooth
If you need to have a tooth pulled, you should plan to replace the tooth as soon as your dentist approves restoration. Your options for replacing a missing tooth include a dental bridge or a dental implant. A dental bridge is an artificial tooth that will attach to your adjacent natural teeth or adjacent dental crowns. A dental implant will use a surgically implanted, biocompatible screw to support a dental crown.
Does Your Tooth Need to Be Pulled? Schedule a Consultation Today
Champagne Smiles is Monmouth County’s favorite dental practice. Our team includes general dentists, cosmetic dentists, restorative dentists, periodontists, and anesthesiologists. As a comprehensive dental practice, we will pursue all opportunities to save natural teeth. If a tooth cannot be saved or if a tooth is damaging other teeth, we will ensure that your extraction is pain-free and stress-free.
Sedation options are available for tooth extractions. If you’re ready to start your journey to better oral health with Dr. Richard Champagne and a truly collaborative and compassionate dental team, contact Champagne Smiles in Morganville, NJ, today to schedule your first appointment.
