How to Get Teeth Pulled

Tooth extraction is performed usually when a tooth is infected or rotting. It also may be necessary if you have broken a tooth; however, the dentist likely will explore the possibility of repairing it first. Teeth, especially wisdom teeth, may also need to be pulled because of overcrowding in the mouth. If your dentist tells you that a tooth may require extraction, ask him about how the procedure will progress, what medications you may need and the typical duration of recovery.

Things You'll Need

• Antibiotics
• Medication
• Gauze
• Ice pack
• Salt water

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Instructions

• 1

  Consult your dentist if you think you have a tooth that needs to be pulled. Ask if it can be repaired rather than removed. If the tooth needs to be removed because of overcrowding, ask the dentist if the extraction needs to be performed right away.

• 2

  Get a second opinion from another dentist. Often, the reasons for tooth removal are clear and may be obvious in the case of rotting teeth. However, a second opinion from another dentist may save you from a potentially painful procedure if your tooth does not really need to be pulled.

• 3

  Ask your dentist about options for replacing the extracted tooth. You may decide to get a tooth implant or partial dentures. When a tooth is pulled, the jaw may be affected. It will be more susceptible to bone loss. If the jaw suffers bone loss, you may be unable to have dental implants in the future, or you may need additional surgery.

• 4

  Provide your dentist with your full medical history if you have decided to get your tooth pulled. Disclose any surgeries or other procedures you have had. Inform him of whether you are allergic to medications or if you have ever had a bad reaction to medications. Let him know if you have an ongoing infection, illness or other medical condition. These factors may affect the type of anesthesia and other drugs your dentist uses.

• 5

  Follow your dentist's pre-procedure instructions. If you have an infection, a weakened immune system or certain health conditions, you may need to take antibiotics before and after the tooth extraction. Refrain from eating or drinking for at least six to eight hours prior to the procedure, according to Colgate. Arrange to have someone drive you home afterward.

• 6

  Relax as much as possible during the procedure. If you have a phobia of dental procedures, tell the dentist beforehand that you would like general anesthesia. This means you will be unconscious. If you have local anesthesia, stay relaxed and follow the dentist's instructions throughout the procedure. For example, he may ask you to open your mouth wider and to let him know if you experience pain.

• 7

  Follow your dentist's instructions for recovery. You may need to take antibiotics. He will likely prescribe a pain medication for you; do not exceed the recommended dosages. He may also ask you to keep a piece of gauze on the area for a period of time to reduce bleeding. If you experience swelling, hold an ice pack to the exterior of your jaw.

• 8

  Eat soft or liquid foods for the first few days after the tooth extraction. Progress to solid foods when your pain subsides and your mouth feels more comfortable.

• 9

  Rinse your mouth gently with warm salt water several times daily for as long as your dentist recommends, usually several days. This helps prevent infection and will also help speed the process of dissolving any stitches you may have.

• 10

  Call your dentist immediately if you experience worsening pain during recovery, or if you develop a fever, chills or worsening swelling and redness. Also notify her if you experience bleeding after the first day.