Pre-Prosthetic Extractions
Preparing for Dentures or Bridges at Newtown Dental

When preparing for dentures or bridges, it’s important to have a healthy and well-prepared mouth to support the prosthetics. Pre-prosthetic extractions may be recommended in the following cases:

• Severely Damaged or Decayed Teeth
  If you have teeth that are too damaged or decayed to be restored, extracting them may be necessary to make room for dentures or bridges.
• Infected or Abscessed Teeth
  Infections in the teeth or gums can compromise the success of dental prosthetics. Extracting infected or abscessed teeth helps prevent further complications and ensures a healthier environment for your new dentures or bridge.
• Teeth That Interfere with Prosthetic Placement
  Sometimes, teeth may be misaligned or positioned in such a way that they interfere with the placement of dentures or bridges. Extracting these teeth creates the necessary space for the prosthetic to fit comfortably.

Our team will work closely with you and your prosthodontist to ensure that all necessary extractions are performed before your new dental prosthetic is fitted, ensuring the best possible outcome.

In addition to extracting damaged or decayed teeth, pre-prosthetic procedures may involve preparing the jawbone or gum tissue to ensure a comfortable fit for your dental prosthetics. This may include:

• Alveoloplasty
  This procedure reshapes and smooths the jawbone after tooth extractions to create a more even surface for dentures or bridges. Alveoloplasty helps ensure that your prosthetic fits snugly and comfortably.
• Bone Grafting
  In some cases, bone grafting may be recommended to restore areas of the jawbone that have deteriorated due to tooth loss or gum disease. This procedure helps create a solid foundation for dental implants or bridges.

At Newtown Dental, we’ll assess your specific needs and refer you to a specialist.

Here’s what to expect during your pre-prosthetic extraction procedure:

1. Consultation and Assessment
   We’ll begin with a thorough examination of your teeth and gums, including X-rays, to determine which teeth need to be extracted. We’ll also assess your jawbone and gum tissue to ensure they are ready for the placement of dentures or bridges.
2. Anesthesia and Sedation Options
   To ensure your comfort, local anesthesia will be used to numb the area around the teeth being extracted. If you’re feeling anxious about the procedure or are undergoing multiple extractions, we offer sedation options such as IV sedation or nitrous oxide (laughing gas) to help you stay relaxed.
3. Tooth Extraction
   We’ll carefully extract the necessary teeth, ensuring minimal discomfort. For visible and accessible teeth, a standard extraction will be performed. For teeth that are broken or impacted, a surgical extraction may be required.
4. Post-Procedure Care
   After the extractions, we’ll provide detailed aftercare instructions to help you heal quickly and prepare for your new dentures or bridge. We’ll also schedule follow-up appointments to ensure your recovery is progressing smoothly.

Proper aftercare is essential to ensure a smooth recovery following pre-prosthetic extractions. Here are a few tips to help you heal quickly and comfortably:

• Manage Pain and Swelling
  Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen can help reduce discomfort after the procedure. Swelling can be managed by applying ice packs to the outside of the cheek.
• Stick to Soft Foods
  For the first few days, stick to soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and soups to avoid irritating the extraction sites. Gradually reintroduce solid foods as your mouth heals.
• Avoid Straws and Smoking
  Do not use straws or smoke for at least 48 hours after the procedure, as these actions can dislodge the blood clot and lead to dry socket.
• Keep the Area Clean
  Gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water after 24 hours to keep the area clean. Avoid brushing directly over the extraction sites until they have healed.

Your dentist will provide detailed instructions on how to care for your mouth after the procedure. We’ll also schedule follow-up visits to monitor your healing and ensure you’re ready for your dental prosthetic.