Denture Journey
Preparing for Tooth Loss
Getting Tooth Extractions

GETTING TOOTH EXTRACTIONS

PREPARING YOUR MOUTH FOR DENTURES

If you are getting full dentures, your dentist will likely extract any remaining teeth to make room for your new set. Here’s what you can expect during the process.

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN GETTING EXTRACTIONS

BEFORE

Your dentist will schedule a consultation to discuss the process and take any preliminary impressions of your mouth.

DURING

Your dentist will numb your mouth with a local anesthetic to ease the procedure. You shouldn’t feel anything during extractions. You may also receive temporary dentures to help protect your gums during the healing process—and while you wait for your permanent ones to be made.

AFTER

Your mouth will heal itself by slowly filling in the bone where the tooth used to be. It does this by forming blood clots. You may experience some soreness and discomfort after having extractions. Be careful and always follow your dentist’s instructions for aftercare.

TIPS FOR RECOVERY

Taking proper care of your mouth after getting extractions helps ensure a better fit for your dentures later.

Try to avoid rinsing for the first few days, it can disrupt the healing process by dislodging blood clots. If you must rinse, do so gently.

Don’t smoke, this can irritate the surgical site and slow the healing process.

Follow the diet suggested by your dental professional. This may include soft foods that are easy to chew.

If you experience pain or swelling, place a cold compress or ice pack on the side of your face and notify your dentist as soon as possible.