Oral Surgery
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If the words “Oral Surgery” strike you with fear, let Hamilton Dental Associates rid you of all that unnecessary anxiety. Our friendly, skilled dental professionals take great pains to ease those of our patients! Whether you come to us for wisdom teeth removal or a simple tooth extraction, we’ll make sure you leave with a fresh new smile on your face after a stress-free surgical procedure.
Our practice, located in Hamilton, NJ, has served Burlington County, NJ, Mercer County, NJ, and the surrounding areas for more than 50 years. For generations, patients of all ages turn to our experts for oral surgery, dental implants, endodontics, and anything they need to repair and brighten their pearly whites. We strive to make everyone who comes in the door feel welcome and comfortable.
Find out for yourself why our staff is the best in the business. If you’re experiencing tooth pain, give us a call today to find out how we can help!
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Contact UsWhen a tooth is damaged or severely decayed, it is sometimes necessary to remove the tooth entirely. An incision is made in the gum, the tooth is extracted, and the incision is closed.
It is important to consider tooth replacement options since an open area in the jaw can create further dental issues, such as drifting teeth or the increased likelihood of infections. If you are considering a dental implant, you should discuss the possibility with your surgeon before the extraction. He or she will know the best course of action to ensure you’re properly set up for an implant.
Pre-Surgery Instructions
Before any oral surgical procedure you should…
Fold a piece of clean gauze into a pad thick enough to bite on directly on the extraction site. Apply moderate pressure by closing the teeth firmly over the pad. Maintain this pressure for about 30 minutes. If the pad becomes soaked, replace it with a clean one as necessary. Do not suck on the extraction site (as with a straw). A slight amount of blood may leak at the extraction site until a clot forms. However, if heavy bleeding continues, call your dentist. (Remember, though, that a lot of saliva and a little blood can look like a lot of bleeding).
The Blood Clot
After an extraction, a blood clot forms in the tooth socket. This clot is an important part of the normal healing process. You should therefore avoid activities that might disturb the clot.
Here’s how to protect it:
Medication
Your dentist may prescribe medication to control pain and prevent infection. Use it only as directed. If the medication prescribed does not seem to work for you, do not increase the dosage. Please call your dentist immediately if you have prolonged or severe pain, swelling, bleeding, or fever.
Swelling and Pain
After a tooth is removed, you may have some discomfort and notice some swelling. You can help reduce swelling and pain by applying cold compresses to the face. An ice bag or cold, moist cloth can be used periodically. Ice should be used only for the first day. Apply the second day if needed. Be sure to follow your doctor’s instructions.
Diet
After the extraction, drink lots of liquids and eat soft, nutritious foods. Avoid alcoholic beverages and hot liquids. Begin eating solid foods the next day or as soon as you can chew comfortably. For about two days, try to chew food on the side opposite the extraction site. If you are troubled by nausea and vomiting call your dentist for advice.
Rinsing
The day after the extraction, gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water ( a teaspoon of salt in an 8 oz. glass of warm water). Rinsing after meals is important to keep food particles away from the extraction site. Do not rinse vigorously!
If a fractured or decayed tooth is causing you pain, or it’s time to have your wisdom teeth removed, putting off oral surgery because you fear discomfort will only exacerbate the issue. Visit our practice in Hamilton, NJ, and we’ll take care of all your dental needs while minimizing your stress. That’s our promise to patients throughout Burlington County, NJ, Mercer County, NJ, and the entire surrounding region.
Call us today or fill out a contact form on our website to schedule your appointment. We look forward to seeing your smiling face!