Question 1

Following a tooth extraction, what care do I need to take to ensure post operative success?"

Accepted Answer

Following a tooth extraction, the following procedures will ensure successful post operative care. Do not smoke for at least 24 hours after your surgery. The sucking motion can loosen the clot and delay healing. In addition, smoking decreases blood supply and can bring germs and contaminants to the surgical site. Avoid rubbing the area with your tongue or touching it with your fingers. Continue to brush your teeth and tongue carefully. Your dentist will remove the stitches after a few days, if needed. Bite gently on the gauze pad periodically, and change pads as they become soaked with blood. Call Dr. Plexman's office if you still have bleeding 24 hours after your surgery. Do not use a straw for the first few days. (Sucking on a straw can loosen the blood clot and delay healing). After the first day, gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water several times a day (reduces swelling and relieves pain).  Do not spit. While your mouth is numb, be careful not to bite the inside of your lip, cheek or tongue. Do not lie flat as this may prolong bleeding. Prop up your head with pillows. Try using an ice pack on the outside of your cheek for the first 24 hours. You can use moist heat, such as a washcloth soaked in warm water and wrung out, for the following 2 or 3 days. Relax after surgery. Physical activity may increase bleeding. Eat soft foods, like jello, pudding, or soup and avoid foods with small kernels, grains or seeds. Gradually add solid foods to your diet as healing progresses.

Question 2

What could cause discolouration or dull looking teeth?

Accepted Answer

The most common causes of discolouration are aging, wear and stains. If you have any of these, whitening could be an option.   Coffee, tea, smoking, red wine and curry are examples of foods or drinks that can accelerate the discolouration and may require bleaching more often.

Question 3

Why would someone typically get bonding done?

Accepted Answer

Bonding is often done to change the shape, shade or close a contact between teeth. It is done with a tooth coloured resin material that is then bonded into place.

Question 4

What can be done to replace missing teeth?

Accepted Answer

There are many options for replacing missing teeth. One recommendation is an implant.  An implant is a titanium screw which is placed were the missing tooth is. This is the only option that will continue to stimulate the bone.   Another option is a bridge. The bridge is designed to replace the missing tooth, but involves the teeth on either side. Some patients decide to replace the missing teeth by having a partial made. This is the only option that is removable and is the most difficult one to get accustomed to as it covers the roof of your mouth.

Question 5

How can chipped teeth be corrected or repaired?

Accepted Answer

In some cases you can just smooth the area and re-contour the tooth. If a filling is needed, bonding may be an option. See bonding for more options.

Question 6

What is tooth bonding?

Accepted Answer

Bonding is a tooth coloured material also known as composite resin. It can be placed on any tooth or tooth surface. Bonding can be used to correct unwanted stains, gaps or even crooked teeth. Basically, bonding can cover any natural flaws by applying a thin layer of composite resin material to alter any shape or colour, proving a pleasant result. Have you always wanted to change your smile but didn't want to go to bleach or through braces? Then bonding may be the answer.

PLEXMAN DENTISTRY

Creating One Beautiful Smile at a Time!

Association Links