Maintain the Health of Your Smile
Good oral health can reduce the risk for a wide variety of health concerns and can have an impact on nearly every aspect of your life. Dr. Curtin is dedicated to providing dental care you can count on, which is why we provide cleanings, x-rays, oral cancer screenings, and cavity treatment all under one roof.
General Dentistry
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to recover from a tooth extraction?
It typically takes 48 to 72 hours following an extraction for a clot to form. The soft tissue will heal in about three to four weeks. Finally, the swelling should diminish and you’ll be completely healed within six to eight weeks following the extraction. That’s when you can be fitted for a restoration such as a dental bridge, implants, or dentures.
Are there any aftercare instructions following a tooth extraction?
Immediately following a tooth extraction, you’ll want to follow a few steps to ensure proper healing isn’t disrupted. In addition to following any recommendations by our dentists, make sure to:
- Avoid rinsing, spitting, or drinking from a straw for 24 hours following the procedure
- After 24 hours, start rinsing with a saline solution after meals
- Avoid smoking
- Use a cold compress and pain relievers such as Ibuprofen to address pain and swelling
- Eat soft, cool foods
- Chew away from the surgical site
Why is dental hygiene important?
Practicing good oral hygiene can help prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and serious medical conditions. The simple act of brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and rinsing between meals can help rid your mouth of harmful bacteria that cause plaque buildup, tartar, and cavities.
When you visit our Winnetka office for biannual professional cleanings and checkups, we’ll use special tools to scale off any plaque and tartar from your pearly whites to keep your mouth in the best of health. One of our dentists will also perform an examination and notify you of any problem areas before they require more invasive procedures.
What will happen if a cavity is left untreated?
If a cavity, also known as tooth decay, is left untreated, it could eventually cause an infection of the gums or teeth. If the treatment is further delayed, the infection can spread to other areas of the body and lead to a life-threatening condition called sepsis. Cavities require dental fillings as a first line of defense in order to restore your oral health to its optimal condition.
If a cavity becomes too large to be filled, you’ll require a dental crown to cover the tooth. Root canal therapy is the last resort to save your tooth before a tooth extraction is necessary to restore your oral health. If you have a cavity, be sure to contact our office by calling (847) 446-0970 and we’ll schedule an appointment at your earliest convenience to put an end to your pain and revitalize your smile.