A tooth extraction means to have a tooth pulled. There are a number of reasons why Dr. Raymond del Castillo and Dr. Douglas A. Deam would recommend a tooth extraction in Coral Gables, Florida. If your smile is crowded, our dentists may pull a tooth to allow the teeth to align properly. This is especially the case if our dentists and team are preparing your mouth for orthodontia. If a tooth cannot break the gums because there is not room in your mouth for it, our dentists may recommend extraction. If a tooth becomes severely infected to the point that root canal therapy will not cure it, extraction may necessary so the infection does not spread. If a patient has a compromised immune system because of a medical treatment like chemotherapy or an organ transplant, even the risk of infection may be reason enough for extraction. If gum disease has caused a tooth to loosen, it may need to be pulled.

After having a tooth extraction, follow the advice below to make recovery easier:

  • Take painkillers as prescribed by our dentists
  • Bite firmly on gauze for three to four hours, changing as necessary
  • Apply ice to the area to keep the swelling down
  • Relax for 24 hours
  • Avoid rinsing or spiting vigorously for 24 hours
  • Do not drink from a straw for 24 hours
  • Eat soft foods
  • Prop your head up when lying down
  • Brush and floss, but avoid the extraction site

Contact the office of Raymond del Castillo, DDS today to learn more and to schedule an appointment.