Infection
The risk of infection in the mouth following the removal of teeth is extremely low, and episodes are quite rare.
However, it can still occur.
Infections can be either minor or major.
Minor infections:
These can be due to dry socket (extremely rare), bone fragments, wound breakdown, clot infection, food trapping.
Treatment depends on the nature of the problem.
If it's after hours, the simplest thing to do is avoid smoking, rinse regularly and gently with warm salt water, and avoid chewing in the area. We advise against picking at the wound, as this may make the problem worse.
Major Infections:
The characteristic of these is significant swelling which spreads rapidly to the surrounding areas. You may also feel very unwell, develop a fever, and become shaky. Pain may not be a significant issue.
Swelling may be firm due to the build up of pus.
The treatment will involve draining of the pus, either through the wound or through an incision in the gums adjacent to the tooth, or even in the neck.
Antibiotics will also be given, and if you require hospitalisation, these will be given intravenously.
In the more severe cases, there is a risk of airway obstruction, and this will involve intubation and admission to intensive care until the problem has resolved, usually up to a week.
This type of problem is a medical emergency, which requires immediate attention
The risk of infection in the mouth following the removal of teeth is extremely low, and episodes are quite rare.
However, it can still occur.
Infections can be either minor or major.
Minor infections:
These can be due to dry socket (extremely rare), bone fragments, wound breakdown, clot infection, food trapping.
Treatment depends on the nature of the problem.
If it's after hours, the simplest thing to do is avoid smoking, rinse regularly and gently with warm salt water, and avoid chewing in the area. We advise against picking at the wound, as this may make the problem worse.
Major Infections:
The characteristic of these is significant swelling which spreads rapidly to the surrounding areas. You may also feel very unwell, develop a fever, and become shaky. Pain may not be a significant issue.
Swelling may be firm due to the build up of pus.
The treatment will involve draining of the pus, either through the wound or through an incision in the gums adjacent to the tooth, or even in the neck.
Antibiotics will also be given, and if you require hospitalisation, these will be given intravenously.
In the more severe cases, there is a risk of airway obstruction, and this will involve intubation and admission to intensive care until the problem has resolved, usually up to a week.
This type of problem is a medical emergency, which requires immediate attention
Post Treatment Advice
CB Dental
www.cbdental.com.au E-Mail: reception@cbdental.com.au Tel: 02 6282 7633 Fax: 02 6282 7644