Extractions Although our primary goal is to save teeth, there are circumstances that require the removal of teeth. These procedures are comfortable and typically as easy for the patient as a filling procedure. If a surgical procedure appears to be more complex, we are fortunate to work with excellent oral surgery specialists in our community. These oral surgeons can provide general anesthesia if the patient requests, and are a wonderful extension of our community of care. If receiving an extraction in our office, we provide excellent local anesthetic and can provide conscious sedation with nitrous oxide or an anti-anxiety medication taken in pill form. If having an extraction, patients should plan ahead so that you have a day or so to rest up from the procedure and follow these recommendations after the extraction: • No spitting, rinsing or drinking through a straw for 24 hours • No smoking for 48 hours • No alcoholic beverage or carbonated beverages for 24 hours • Take all medications as recommended • Maintain a soft diet for 3 days • A small amount of blood may be present for 24 hours. If bleeding is present, place gauze pads on the site and apply pressure by biting down on the gauze • If swelling is present, apply ice packs to area – 10 minutes on and 10 minutes off – for the first 8 hours after the procedure

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