6 Side Effects of Tooth Extractions

The Center for Oral Surgery of Las Vegas works hard to provide patients with quality, comprehensive dental and surgical care. Many patients are referred to our Las Vegas oral surgery office because their family dentist has told them they need a particular procedure like a tooth extraction. In dental care, tooth extractions are a last resort. Dentists will do everything in their power to save a tooth before resorting to tooth extraction, but sometimes it is necessary to keep other teeth and gums healthy. Prior to any tooth extraction, Dr. Carlos Letelier will discuss the procedure, the post-op care, and the six most common side effects.

1. Bleeding

After a dental extraction in Las Vegas, bleeding will occur, but it’s important to form a blood clot to stop the bleeding. Prior to leaving the appointment, we will ask you to bite on a gauze pad for 30-45 minutes. If the bleeding continues after this, you should insert another gauze pad and bite firmly for another 30 minutes. This process may have to be repeated several times to form a blood clot.

2. Swelling

Extracting a tooth normally causes a minor amount of swelling in the mouth and cheek. Typically, the swelling occurs the day after the extraction occurred. You can minimize the swelling with ice packs.

3. Moderate Pain or Discomfort

It is normal to feel a mild or moderate amount of pain after tooth extraction. You can take over-the-counter pain medication like paracetamol or ibuprofen. Please follow the directions on the container closely and do not exceed the daily amount. If the pain persists or becomes worse, please call our Las Vegas oral surgery staff.

4. Tender Mouth

A dental extraction in Las Vegas can cause minor pain and a tender mouth, that’s why it’s beneficial to eat a soft diet after the procedure. Dr. Carlos Letelier recommends consuming foods like soup, smoothies, scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes, soft vegetables, yogurt, and pasta.

5. Rinse to Prevent Infection

After the procedure, it is important to keep your mouth clean to avoid any type of infection. On the day of the procedure, you can gently brush your teeth.The day after the procedure, you should rinse your mouth with warm water and a teaspoon of salt or a prescribed antiseptic mouthwash 5-6 times per day. This will help your mouth heal and avoid any unnecessary infection.

6. Discoloration of the Face

If you experience swelling of the cheek or face, you may also have discolored skin. This is normal. The discoloration may be a light shade of blue, green, or brown. Don’t worry, this discoloration will fade after a few days.

Contact Dr. Carlos Letelier for Las Vegas Oral Surgery Today!

If you are looking for comprehensive, high-quality oral surgery in Las Vegas, contact The Center for Oral Surgery of Las Vegas. Our team will evaluate your dental needs and ensure you receive the care you deserve. We look forward to seeing you soon!