Tooth Sensitivity

Have you ever felt pain or discomfort after a bite of ice cream or a spoonful of hot soup? If so, you're not alone. While pain caused by hot or cold foods could be a sign of a cavity, it's also common in people who have sensitive teeth.

Tooth Sensitivity, or "dentin hypersensitivity," is exactly what it sounds like: pain or discomfort in the teeth as a response to certain stimuli, such as hot or cold temperatures.

The most common triggers include:

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Hot foods
& beverages

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Cold foods
& beverages

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Sweet foods
& beverages

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Acidic foods
& beverages

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Cold
Air

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Brushing or
flossing teeth

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Alcohol - based
Mouth rinses

Your symptoms may come and go over time for no obvious reason. They may range from mild to intense. It may be temporary or a chronic problem, and it can affect one tooth, several teeth, or all the teeth in a single individual. It can have a number of different causes, but most cases of sensitive teeth are easily treated with a change in your oral hygiene regimen.

Some people naturally have more sensitive teeth than others due to having thinner enamel. The enamel is the outer layer of the tooth that protects it. In many cases, the tooth's enamel can be worn down from:

  • Regularly eating or drinking acidic foods and beverages
  • Gum recession - this leaves sections of the tooth exposed and unprotected
  • Using a hard toothbrush
  • Brushing your teeth too hard
  • Grinding your teeth (Bruxism)
  • Tooth decay, broken teeth, chipped teeth, and worn-down fillings or crowns can leave the dentin of the tooth exposed. If this is the case, you'll likely only feel sensitivity in one particular tooth or region in the mouth.
  • Medical conditions like Gastroesophageal reflux (GERD), for example, can cause acid to come up from the stomach and esophagus, and may wear down teeth over time.
  • Conditions that cause frequent vomiting — including gastroparesis and bulimia — can also cause acid to wear down the enamel.

Dentinal hypersensitivity, or tooth sensitivity, is a common dental problem. It's a condition that can develop over time, as a result of common problems such as receding gums and/or enamel wear. Most sufferers are between 20 and 50 years old. Tooth sensitivity can start to happen when the softer, inner part of the tooth called 'dentin' becomes exposed. Dentin is the “sensitive layer" and it lies under the enamel and the gums.

Thousands of microscopic channels run through the dentine towards the centre of the tooth. Once the dentine is exposed, external triggers (such as a cold drink) can stimulate the nerves inside the tooth, causing the characteristic short, sharp sensation of tooth sensitivity.

Our dental specialist at Therapeuo can confirm you have dentinal hypersensitivity. If you are diagnosed with dentinal hypersensitivity, you can help to minimise further exposure of the dentin, care for your sensitive teeth and relieve the symptoms by making some simple changes to your daily oral care routine and dietary habits.

If you've ever winced after an unwelcome sensation of tooth sensitivity, you're not the only one. But remember, there can be many different causes of dental sensation, other than tooth sensitivity. So, if you are feeling any discomfort, especially if it persists, the best thing you can do is visit your dentist and seek professional advice.

Other reasons for tooth sensation including Tooth Decay

Tooth decay or cavities

Sensation caused by tooth decay (dental caries or dental cavities) can feel similar to tooth sensitivity. Tooth decay happens when the sugars in foods and drinks react with the bacteria in the plaque on our teeth to form acids. These acids can gradually soften and dissolve your enamel and dentine. Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and regular application of fluoride varnish by your dental specialist will help to strengthen your teeth.
The problem with tooth decay is that you might not feel any sensation from it until it's quite advanced. It can be managed in the early stages. So, even if you don't feel any sensation, it's important to go for regular dental check-ups so that your dentist can spot early signs of tooth decay and work with you to manage it.

After dental treatment

It is not uncommon for your teeth to feel sensitive for a time after having dental treatment. However, if this persists contact your dentist for advice.

Tooth sensitivity after filling

Some people may experience tooth sensitivity after having a cavity filled or a filling replaced. This is especially more so in deep fillings close to the nerve of the tooth. The tooth decay that causes cavities irritates the tooth, and the filling procedure, while necessary, can lead to further sensitivity. Fortunately, tooth sensitivity after a tooth coloured filling should improve on its own within a few weeks. It may last longer, as much as a few months, but as long as the tooth sensitivity shows gradual improvement, there should be nothing to worry about. Persistent tooth sensitivity, however, may indicate that a root canal is needed.
Sometimes after a filling, teeth become sensitive when biting down. This can be fixed with a simple bite adjustment. Additionally, the filling may be too high. In this case, our dental specialist would lower the filling.
Composite fillings (tooth coloured fillings) may cause tooth sensitivity when chewing. However, there is no pain when the teeth are clenched together. This tooth sensitivity is usually fixed by adjusting the bite or replacing the filling with another composite.

Tooth sensitivity after whitening treatments

Teeth-whitening treatments — done either in a dentist's office or using an over-the-counter product which may contain harsh chemicals that remove stains, but they can also remove the enamel, leading to tooth sensitivity. A 2016 study in Lasers in Medical Science found that irradiating teeth with a low-level red laser with an infrared diode after a whitening treatment reduced pain levels significantly. A 2018 study published in The Journal of the American Dental Association found that applying a densitizing gel before whitening significantly reduced tooth sensitivity after treatment.
We at Therapeuo offer the best in terms of whitening treatments. We provide a laser whitening which lasts no longer than 8 minutes ensuring the least possible chance of post-operative sensitivity.
Other common causes of tooth discomfort include dental abscesses and cracked teeth. It is important to visit your dentist regularly to check the health of your teeth and gums. If you feel any discomfort, particularly if it persists, contact your dentist for advice

If you're experiencing tooth sensitivity for the first time, do not sit idle. Attend to it immediately and call us for an appointment. We will look at the health of your teeth and check for potential problems like cavities, loose fillings, or recessed gums that could be causing the sensitivity. We will also take an OPG X-ray (full mouth dental scan) to help diagnose your problem.

Depending on your tooth sensitivity we will either change your oral hygiene methods, prescribe better toothpastes and mouth rinses or carry out treatment (tooth fillings, gum procedures, mouthguards etc) to relieve your pain.

If you have an underlying medical condition that has caused the sensitivity (GERD, Bulimia, Hyper acidity etc) usually treating these underlying causes would help ease the pain. This would be the first step in our treatment plan to help you get better.

Did You Know ?

Your teeth may be temporarily sensitive following dental work like getting fillings, crowns, or teeth bleaching. In this case, sensitivity will also be confined to one tooth or the teeth surrounding the tooth that received dental work. This should subside after several days.

Composite Filling

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Amalgam fillings also known as Silver fillings, have been used in dentistry for over 100 years. Health concerns have been raised as this filling material consists of a combination of metals including mercury (major concern), tin and copper as well as small amounts of zinc, indium or palladium.

We at Therapeuo choose not to use Silver fillings for any of our patients. In fact, we are often asked to replace these older silver fillings with a newer, tooth-coloured material known as Composite. If you have any silver fillings, we highly recommend you replace these with Composite.

Resin composite fillings are made of a ceramic and plastic compound. Because resin mimics the appearance of natural teeth, these fillings blend right in. They're also known as "white fillings" or "tooth-coloured fillings." Such a procedure is usually done by our dental specialist known as an Aesthetic Dentist or Restorative Dentist.

Composite resins, or tooth-colored fillings, provide good durability and resistance to fracture in small to mid-size fillings that need to withstand moderate pressure from the constant stress of chewing. They can be used on either front or back teeth. They are a good choice for people who prefer that their fillings look more natural.

Advantages of Composite/White/Tooth Coloured fillings:

  •  These are dental restorations used to fill in decayed areas of the teeth.
  •  Help repair chipped or broken teeth.
  •  They blend well with the teeth and appear more natural than Silver fillings.
  •  Are highly durable, giving you a long lasting, beautiful smile.

It generally takes longer to place a composite filling than it does for a metal filling. That's because composite fillings require the tooth be kept clean and dry while the cavity is being filled.

These are not permanent and may someday have to be replaced. The best way to stay on top of such a potential development is to follow good oral hygiene practices, healthy eating habits, and maintain a regular schedule of dental visits.

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Treatment Costs :
Rs 2000 to 4000 per tooth

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Average Treatment Time :
45 Mins to 1 Hour

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Average No. of Sittings :
Single sitting per tooth/quadrant

Anterior composite

Anterior Composite

Posterior composite

Posterior Composite

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have a cavity, broken tooth, or a deteriorated filling, you may be a candidate for a tooth-coloured filling. Schedule a dental consultation with us to find out if a composite filling is right for you. Our dental specialists and aesthetics dentists will be able to guide you as to what will be the best option for your great smile.

A composite filling is a relatively short procedure and one of the most common dental procedures done today. When you arrive at our office, expect to spend an hour with us. During your visit, your gums and teeth will be anaesthetised with a local anaesthetic near the site of the filling. Once the area is numb, the decayed or damaged portion of your teeth will be removed. A rubber sheet (known as a rubber dam) will be placed around the tooth to keep you protected during the treatment phase. The new Composite filling will then be placed, shaped and polished before the procedure is complete. A blue coloured light will be used during the procedure to harden the restoration. All this is done with utmost care and precaution. Now your tooth is ready to use, though it is recommended that you do not try to eat or drink hot liquids until the anesthetic has worn off.

To maintain your fillings, you should follow good oral hygiene practices -- visiting us at Therapeuo regularly for dental clean ups. Brushing with a fluoride-containing toothpaste, and flossing at least once daily will help tremendously. If we your dental specialists suspect that a filling might be cracked or is "leaking" (when the sides of the filling don't fit tightly against the tooth, this allows debris and saliva to seep down between the filling and the tooth, which can lead to decay), we will take X-rays to assess the situation.
If your tooth is extremely sensitive, if you feel a sharp edge, if you notice a crack in the filling, or if a piece of the filling is missing, please call us for an appointment.

Did You
Know ?

Composite fillings allow dentists to preserve more of the natural tooth structure? This is because composite materials chemically bond to the surface of the tooth like an adhesive. The process takes slightly longer to complete than traditional Silver fillings, but you can preserve more of the natural portion of the teeth while enjoying a restoration that is discreet.

Root Canal Treatment

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There's no need to be worried if our Root canal specialist (Endodontist) prescribes a root canal procedure to treat a damaged or diseased tooth. A root canal is a pain free treatment. Millions of teeth are treated and saved this way each year, relieving pain and making teeth healthy again.

"Endo" is the Greek word for "inside" and "odont" is Greek for "tooth." Endodontic treatment treats the inside of the tooth. Root canal treatment is one type of endodontic treatment which aims to save your tooth.

Inside your tooth, beneath the white enamel and a hard layer called dentin, is a soft tissue called pulp. This tissue contains blood vessels, nerves and connective tissue, which help grow the root of your tooth during its development. A fully developed tooth can survive without the pulp because the tooth continues to be nourished by the tissues surrounding it.

Root Canals (short for Root Canal Treatments) are valuable dental procedures used to treat and preserve teeth with badly infected roots. The pulp is the live portion of the tooth that extends into the root and contains nerve endings and tissues. When it becomes infected, patients can experience dental pain, swelling and even tooth loss unless treated.

Root Canals remove the damaged parts of the tooth (cracked tooth or chipped tooth) and infected root due to severe decay or deep decay. In some cases, an antibiotic is prescribed to help prevent further infection within the tooth. The portion of the tooth that remains is usually restored using a cap or crown that provides a natural appearance and normal tooth function.

Saving the natural tooth with root canal treatment has many advantages:

  • Efficient chewing function
  • Efficient chewing function
  • Natural appearance
  • Protects other teeth from excessive wear or strain

A modern root canal treatment (endodontic treatment) is nothing like those old sayings! It's very similar to a routine filling and can usually be completed in one or two appointments, depending on the condition of your tooth and your personal circumstances. At Therapeuo getting a root canal is a pain free treatment and is extremely effective. You'll be back to smiling, biting and chewing with ease in no time.

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Treatment Costs :
Rs. 7000 To Rs.8500

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Average Treatment Time :
45 Mins to 1 Hr.

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Average No. of Sittings :
One to Two Sittings

Note : However, in some severe cases multiple sittings might be required.

Frequently Asked Questions

You could be a candidate for a root canal therapy if tooth decay (deep cavity or severe decay) or damage (cracked tooth) has allowed bacteria to infect the pulp inside your tooth. Root canals are needed for a cracked tooth from injury or genetics, a deep cavity, or issues from a previous filling. Patients generally need a root canal when they notice dental pain from sensitivity in their teeth, particularly hot and cold sensations or if their gums become swollen and tender with presence of a swelling.
A Root Canal could also be the right pain free treatment for you. We always prefer to preserve as much of your natural tooth as possible thereby saving your tooth instead of extracting it.

There are a few symptoms that mean you might need a root canal :

  • Severe dental pain while chewing or biting
  • Pimples on the gums
  • A chipped or cracked tooth
  • Protects other teeth from excessive wear or strainLingering sensitivity (tooth sensitivity) to hot or cold, even after the sensation has been removed
  • Swollen or tender gums
  • Severe decay or Deep decay or
  • Darkening of the gums

No. Local anaesthetics and advancements in modern dentistry have made root canals painfree procedures that are as comfortable as getting a standard tooth coloured filling. At Therapeuo it is usually a single sitting pain free procedure. There is no dental pain that will be felt by you during the root canal therapy.

Endodontic treatment can often be performed in one or two visits, is a pain free treatment and involves the following steps :

The root canal specialist (endodontist) examines and takes a radiograph of the tooth using x-rays, then administers local anesthetic. This is to ensure pain free treatment. After the tooth root is numb, the endodontist places a small protective rubber sheet called a "dental dam" over the area to isolate the tooth and keep it clean and free of saliva during the root canal procedure.

The endodontist makes an opening in the crown of the tooth. Very tiny instruments are used to clean the pulp from the pulp chamber and root canals and to shape the space for filling. At Therapeuo our root canal specialist uses motorized instruments thereby ensuring quick and efficient cleaning allowing us to perform single visit root canal procedures.

After space is cleaned and shaped, the endodontist fills the root canals with a biocompatible material, usually a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. The gutta-percha is placed with an adhesive cement to ensure complete sealing of the root canals. In most cases, a temporary filling is placed to close the opening. The temporary filling will be removed by our restorative dentist before the tooth is restored.

After the final visit with our root canal specialist (endodontist), you must return to have a crown or other restoration placed by our restorative dentist, on the tooth to protect and restore it to full chewing function.

If the tooth lacks sufficient structure to hold the restoration in place, our prosthodontist (tooth cap specialist) may place a post inside the tooth. Following this your tooth will be ready to receive a cap and restore it to normal function.

You should not chew or bite on the treated tooth until you have had it restored by our prosthodontist. The unrestored tooth is susceptible to fracture, so you should visit us for a full restoration (crown or onlay) as soon as possible. Otherwise, you need only practice good oral hygiene, including brushing, flossing, and regular check-ups and cleanings (dental scalings).

Most endodontically treated teeth last as long as other natural teeth. In a few cases, a tooth that has undergone endodontic treatment does not heal or the pain continues. Occasionally, the tooth may become painful or diseased months or even years after successful treatment. Often when this occurs, redoing the endodontic procedure (Re-root canal therapy) can save the tooth.

The cost varies depending on how complex the problem is and which tooth is affected. Molars (the teeth present at the back of the mouth used for chewing) are more difficult to treat; the fee is usually more. The usual cost at Therapeuo is Rs 7,000 that could go up to Rs 8,500 depending on the complexity of the case and whether it is a re-root canal procedure or a fresh one.

Generally, endodontic treatment and restoration of the natural tooth are less expensive than the alternative of having the tooth extracted. An extracted tooth must be replaced with an implant or bridge to restore chewing function and prevent adjacent teeth from shifting.

The alternative is to have the tooth out (extracted). Once the pulp is destroyed, it can’t heal and it is not recommended to leave an infected tooth in the mouth. Although some people would prefer an extraction and a dental implant (artificial tooth root), it is usually best to keep as much of the natural tooth as possible.

It is normal for teeth to become inflamed after a root canal, potentially causing sensitivity for the first several days following treatment. You should not chew or bite on the treated tooth until you have had it restored by your dentist. The unrestored tooth is susceptible to fracture, so you should see your dentist for a full restoration as soon as possible. Otherwise, you need only practice good oral hygiene, including brushing, flossing, and regular checkups and cleanings.

Most endodontically treated teeth last as long as other natural teeth. In a few cases, a tooth that has undergone endodontic treatment does not heal or the pain continues. Occasionally, the tooth may become painful or diseased months or even years after successful treatment. Often when this occurs, redoing the endodontic procedure can save the tooth. However, normal brushing and flossing habits can be resumed immediately after treatment and restoration with a core and crown is complete.

Did You
Know ?

Once the pulp in your tooth is infected, the only other alternative to Root Canal Therapy is having the tooth removed (extracted). This is absolutely discouraged at Therapeuo! We prefer preserving your natural tooth as much as possible. Removing one tooth can cause your other teeth to shift. This could change your bite and the quality of your smile!

Tooth extractions

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Tooth extractions are routine dental procedures that remove decayed, damaged or otherwise problematic teeth. We at Therapeuo usually make every effort to preserve natural teeth, although sometimes a dental extraction is necessary. Depending on which teeth are removed, they may be replaced with a dental implant or another oral prosthetic by our restorative dentist or prosthetic dentist (prosthodontist).

There are several reasons why you could need a tooth extraction:

  • tooth decay and very deep cavities (Most common).
  • Severe pain on chewing
  • Swollen and very tender gums
  • Teeth which do not come out of the gums (Impacted teeth), particularly wisdom teeth.
  • Advanced gum (periodontal) disease
  • Cracked tooth or broken teeth

Beyond tooth damage and tooth decay, here are some other common reasons for tooth removal :

  • Some people have extra teeth that block other teeth from coming in (supernumerary teeth).
  • Sometimes baby teeth don't fall out in time to allow the permanent teeth to come in.
  • People getting braces may need teeth extracted to create room for the teeth that are being moved into place.
  • People receiving radiation to the head and neck may need to have teeth in the field of radiation extracted.
  • People receiving cancer drugs may develop infected teeth because these drugs weaken the immune system. Infected teeth may need to be extracted.
  • Wisdom teeth, also called third molars, are often extracted either before or after they erupt in the mouth. They commonly come in during the late teens or early 20's. They need to be removed if they are decayed, infected, or if there is not enough room in the mouth.

Although many circumstances requiring extraction are unavoidable, some could be prevented with regular dental checks and clean-up visits to our dental clinic.

How you should prepare for a tooth extraction :

Before scheduling the procedure, our oral surgeon (dentist trained specially to remove teeth and carry out other dental surgical procedures) will take an X-ray of your tooth. Be sure to tell our dental surgeon about any medications you take, as well as vitamins, supplements, and over-the-counter drugs.

Please do tell our surgeon if you will soon be treated for another medical condition with an intravenous drug called a bisphosphonate. If so, the extraction should be done before the drug treatment, or your jaw could be at risk for osteonecrosis (bone death).

Some other conditions you should tell us about :

  • congenital heart defects
  • diabetes
  • liver disease
  • thyroid disease
  • renal disease
  • hypertension
  • an artificial joint
  • damaged heart valves
  • adrenal disease
  • an impaired immune system
  • a history of bacterial endocarditis

At Therapeuo we always want to make sure all your health conditions are stable or treated before you undergo the tooth extraction.

You might be prescribed antibiotics for the days leading up to the procedure if :

  • your surgery is expected to be long
  • you have an infection or a weakened immune system
  • you have a specific medical condition

It's helpful to keep the following in mind for the day of the tooth extraction in order to ensure quality treatment:

  • You will be receiving dental anesthesia so please do eat a reasonably heavy meal 2 to 3 hours before your appointment.
  • Don’t smoke beforehand.
  • Please tell us if you have a cold, as you may need to reschedule.
  • Tell your dentist if you had nausea or vomiting the night before, which may require different anesthesia or rescheduling.
  • Post surgery it is better to have have someone with you to take you home

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Treatment Costs :
Rs. 3000(simple) To
Rs.9000(complex) per tooth

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Average Treatment Time :
45 Mins to 1 and
a Half hour

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Average No. of Sittings :
Single Sittings per
tooth or Quadrant

Only we as dental professionals can tell you if you require a tooth extraction. However, you may be a candidate for the procedure if one or more of your teeth are decayed so severely that a tooth coloured filling, root canal treatment or other restoration is not a possibility for treatment.

If we agree to extract one or more teeth, you will be scheduled to return for oral surgery at a later date.

Before starting the dental extraction, the dental surgeon will take an X-ray of your tooth. This imaging will help them evaluate the curvature and angle of the tooth’s root.

Once the local anesthetic has numbed the area, the surgeon will begin the extraction. They may remove the tooth in several pieces.

If the tooth is concealed beneath gum tissue or bone, the doctor may need to cut away the gum or remove the obstructing area of bone.

You should not feel pain (pain free treatment), but you can expect to feel pressure against the tooth. You may also hear grinding and cracking of bone or teeth. Some people find the experience unpleasant and distressing but there is no need to fret as you are in good hands.

If you do feel any pain, please notify our dentist or oral surgeon immediately. The doctor will administer more numbing agent.

After the extraction, stitches or additional procedures to control the bleeding in the missing tooth area may be necessary.

The dentist or oral surgeon will place a thick layer of gauze over the extraction site and have you bite on it to absorb the blood and start the clotting process. You may be prescribed medications to help manage pain in the hours following your extraction.

Aftercare for an extracted tooth can vary slightly depending on a few factors.

These include which tooth our dental surgeon took out, as some teeth have deeper roots than others and take longer to heal. However, most people find that pain decreases after about 3 days.

One of the most important aspects of aftercare is maintaining the blood clot that forms in the socket where the tooth used to be.

Caring for this blood clot is key to the healing process, and it helps prevent painful complications, such as dry socket.

Days 1–2

Much of the aftercare in the first couple of days following an extraction focuses on allowing a blood clot to form and caring for the mouth in general.

As some experts note, low level bleeding for up to 24 hours after an extraction is perfectly normal. However, active bleeding after this point requires treatment and you should notify us immediately of the same.

The extraction socket in the area of the missing tooth may bleed for a few days. Please come and see us if the bleeding is heavy and doesn't stop.

You will be instructed to avoid certain foods and also keep the surgical site clean at all times.

Here are a few additional tips for the first 2 days of aftercare:

Do's:

  • Get plenty of rest : Expect to be resting for at least the first 24 hours after the extraction.
  • Change the gauze : It is important to leave the first gauze in the mouth for at least 45 minutes to allow the clot to form.
  • Take prescribed medication : We will prescribe you pain relievers which will help reduce pain and inflammation. The dental surgeon may order prescription medications for complex removals. It is important to complete the full course of treatment
  • Use cold compresses: Placing an ice pack or a towel-wrapped bag of ice on the area for 10–20 minutes at a time may help dull pain.
  • Elevate the head: When sleeping, use extra pillows to elevate the head. Lying too flat may allow blood to pool in the head and prolong healing time.
  • Eat and drink cold or cooled-down food and drinks that do not require chewing such as yogurt, thin soup, milkshakes and ice cream.
  • Brush your teeth carefully. Avoid brushing the extraction site for at least a few days.
  • Use ice packs to reduce swelling and pain if needed.

Dont's:

  • Avoiding disturbing the extraction site
  • The first 24 hours after an extraction are extremely important.
  • Disturbing or irritating the area can keep blood clots from forming effectively and slow the healing process.
People should therefore avoid:
  • sucking on the extraction site
  • touching it with their tongue
  • solid, especially crunchy and hard foods
  • drinking alcoholic beverages or using mouthwash that contains alcohol
  • avoid strenuous physical activity at least for a couple of days.
  • Avoid rinsing : As tempting as it can be, avoid rinsing vigorously, swishing, or gargling anything in the mouth while the area is still clotting. These actions may dislodge any clot that is forming and affect the healing time.
  • Do not use straws : Using a straw places a lot of pressure on the healing wound, which can easily dislodge the blood clot.
  • Do not spit : Spitting also creates pressure in the mouth, which may dislodge the blood clot.
  • Avoid blowing the nose or sneezing : If the surgeon removed a tooth from the upper half of the mouth, blowing the nose or sneezing can create pressure in the head that may dislodge the developing blood clot. Avoid blowing the nose and sneezing if possible.
  • Do not smoke : Smoking creates the same pressure in the mouth as using a straw. While it is best to avoid smoking during the entire healing process, it is crucial not to smoke during the first couple of days as the blood clot forms

Days 3–10

A person should try to eat soft foods while recovering from tooth extraction.

After the clot has formed, it is vital to keep it securely in place and to follow some extra steps for oral hygiene to help prevent other issues.

Tips for aftercare between the third and 10th day include :

  • Saline rinses: When the clot is securely in place, gently rinse the mouth with a warm saline solution or a pinch of salt in warm water. This mixture helps kill bacteria in the mouth, which may prevent infections as the mouth heals.
  • Brush and floss as usual: Brush and floss the teeth as usual, but take care to avoid the extracted tooth (missing tooth area) altogether. The saline solution and any medicated mouthwash that we recommend should be enough to clean this area.
  • Eat soft foods: Throughout the entire healing process, you should eat soft foods that do not require a lot of chewing and are unlikely to become trapped in the empty socket(missing tooth area). Consider sticking to soups, yogurt, applesauce, and similar foods. Avoid hard toast, chips, and foods containing seeds.
  • Aftercare for multiple teeth Sometimes, our dental surgeon will need to extract more than one tooth at a time.
  • Caring for multiple extractions can be challenging, especially if they are on different sides of the mouth. Our surgeon will have specific instructions for such cases, and we may request a follow-up appointment shortly after the extraction.
  • They may also use clotting aids in the extraction sites. These are small pieces of natural material that helps clotting. The body breaks the clotting aids down safely and absorbs them over time.

Do not hesitate to call us if :

  • The swelling gets worse, instead of better.
  • You have fever, chills or redness.
  • You have trouble swallowing.
  • You have uncontrolled bleeding in the area.
  • The area continues to ooze or bleed after the first 24 hours.
  • Your tongue, chin or lip feels numb more than 3 to 4 hours after the procedure.
  • The extraction site becomes very painful -- This may be a sign that you have developed a dry socket.

The cost of a tooth extraction varies, depending on factors such as :

  • the type of extraction
  • how complicated the extraction is
  • who performs the procedure, as specialized oral surgeons will charge more than our general dentists, for example
  • On average, however, a simple or routine extraction will start at a cost of Rs 3000
  • Also, the extraction fee does not include the cost of any initial examination and X-rays required to tell whether the tooth needs removing.
  • The average fee for an examination is Rs 600. A panoramic X-ray that shows the entire mouth and all the teeth costs Rs 700.
  • In certain cases, a special scan known as a Dental CBCT may be required to gather more information of the surgical site prior to the procedure of removing the tooth.
  • It is important to have a consultation with our dentist and/or our oral surgeon to discuss the procedure ahead of time.

Did You
Know ?

Discomfort or dental pain in the extraction site is common and lasts for a few days. Most pain disappears 2-3 days after the procedure. Most healthy people don't need antibiotics after a regular tooth extraction.

Third Molar or wisdom teeth removal

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Wisdom teeth or Third molars completely erupt usually between 18 to 24 years of age. However, sometimes there may not be room in your mouth for your wisdom teeth. Thus, when they start to come through, they push against the teeth already there or come through at an angle. This can be quite disconcerting especially if you have undergone orthodontic treatment. When this happens, you might feel some pain or discomfort, so the best thing to do is to visit us at Therapeuo.

We will take an OPG x-ray of your mouth to see how-or if-your wisdom teeth are coming through. From this, we will be able to judge whether or not to extract them, and how easy or difficult it might be. In certain complicated cases an additional scan known as a CBCT Scan will be required.

Signs and Symptoms requiring wisdom teeth removal :

  • Acute peri-coronitis (tender and swollen gum tissue around the wisdom tooth) associated with dental pain and a bad taste in the mouth.
  • More serious symptoms that require immediate treatment include
  • Fever.
  • Wisdom tooth-related abscess(pus formation and swelling)
  • Difficulty opening the mouth because of swelling.

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Treatment Costs :
Rs 7000 to
15000 per tooth.

Note : In some cases where additional procedures are required they will be charged separately and you will be informed of the same prior to starting the treatment.

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Average Treatment Time :
45 Mins to One and
a Half hour

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Average No. of Sittings :
Single Sittings per
tooth

Frequently Asked Questions

You may be a candidate for the procedure if your wisdom teeth are decayed so severely that a filling, root canal or other restoration is not a possibility for treatment. This will also be the case for recurring peri-coronitis(swollen and tender gums which bleed easily) or incorrectly erupted third molars.

If we agree to extract one or more teeth, you will be scheduled to return for oral surgery at a later date.

Before starting the dental extraction, our dental surgeon will take an X-ray of your tooth. This imaging will help us evaluate the curvature and angle of the tooth's root.

Once the local anesthetic has numbed the area, the oral surgeon will begin the extraction. We may remove the tooth completely or in several pieces depending on how badly the tooth is impacted.

If the tooth is concealed beneath gum tissue or bone, the oral surgeon may need to cut away the gum or remove the obstructing area of bone.

You will not feel pain (pain free treatment), but you can expect to feel pressure against the tooth. You may also hear grinding and cracking of bone or teeth. Some people find the experience unpleasant and distressing but there is no need to fret as you are in good hands.

If you do feel any pain, please notify our dentist or oral surgeon immediately. The doctor will administer more numbing agent.

After the extraction, stitches or additional procedures to control the bleeding in the missing tooth area may be necessary.

The dentist or oral surgeon will place a thick layer of gauze over the extraction site and have you bite on it to absorb the blood and start the clotting process. You may be prescribed medications to help manage pain in the hours following your extraction.

Aftercare for an extracted tooth can vary slightly depending on a few factors.

These include which tooth our dental surgeon took out, as some teeth have deeper roots than others and take longer to heal. However, most people find that pain decreases after about 3 days.

One of the most important aspects of aftercare is maintaining the blood clot that forms in the socket where the tooth used to be.

Caring for this blood clot is key to the healing process, and it helps prevent painful complications, such as dry socket.

Days 1–2

Much of the aftercare in the first couple of days following an extraction focuses on allowing a blood clot to form and caring for the mouth in general.

As some experts note, low level bleeding for up to 24 hours after an extraction is perfectly normal. However, active bleeding after this point requires treatment and you should notify us immediately of the same.

The extraction socket in the area of the missing tooth may bleed for a few days. Please come and see us if the bleeding is heavy and doesn't stop.

You will be instructed to avoid certain foods and also keep the surgical site clean at all times.

Here are a few additional tips for the first 2 days of aftercare:

Do's:

  • Get plenty of rest: Expect to be resting for at least the first 24 hours after the extraction.

  • Change the gauze: It is important to leave the first gauze in the mouth for at least 45 minutes to allow the clot to form.
  • Take prescribed medication: We will prescribe you pain relievers which will help reduce pain and inflammation. The dental surgeon may order prescription medications for complex removals. It is important to complete the full course of treatment
  • Use cold compresses: Placing an ice pack or a towel-wrapped bag of ice on the area for 10–20 minutes at a time may help dull pain.
  • Elevate the head: When sleeping, use extra pillows to elevate the head. Lying too flat may allow blood to pool in the head and prolong healing time.
  • Eat and drink cold or cooled-down food and drinks that do not require chewing such as yogurt, thin soup, milkshakes and ice cream.
  • Brush your teeth carefully. Avoid brushing the extraction site for at least a few days.
  • Use ice packs to reduce swelling and pain if needed.

Dont's:

  • Avoiding disturbing the extraction site
  • The first 24 hours after an extraction are extremely important.
  • Disturbing or irritating the area can keep blood clots from forming effectively and slow the healing process.
People should therefore avoid:
  • sucking on the extraction site
  • touching it with their tongue
  • eating solid, especially crunchy and hard foods
  • drinking alcoholic beverages or using mouthwash that contains alcohol
  • avoid strenuous physical activity at least for a couple of days.
  • Avoid rinsing : As tempting as it can be, avoid rinsing vigorously, swishing, or gargling anything in the mouth while the area is still clotting. These actions may dislodge any clot that is forming and affect the healing time.
  • Do not use straws : Using a straw places a lot of pressure on the healing wound, which can easily dislodge the blood clot.
  • Do not spit : Spitting also creates pressure in the mouth, which may dislodge the blood clot.
  • Avoid blowing the nose or sneezing : If the surgeon removed a tooth from the upper half of the mouth, blowing the nose or sneezing can create pressure in the head that may dislodge the developing blood clot. Avoid blowing the nose and sneezing if possible.
  • Do not smoke : Smoking creates the same pressure in the mouth as using a straw. While it is best to avoid smoking during the entire healing process, it is crucial not to smoke during the first couple of days as the blood clot forms

Days 3–10

You should try to eat soft foods while recovering from tooth extraction. After the clot has formed, it is vital to keep it securely in place and to follow some extra steps for oral hygiene to help prevent other issues.

Tips for aftercare between the third and 10th day include :

Saline rinses : When the clot is securely in place, gently rinse your mouth with a warm saline solution or a pinch of salt in warm water. This mixture helps kill bacteria in the mouth, which may prevent infections as the mouth heals.

Brush and floss as usual : Brush and floss the teeth as usual, but take care to avoid the extracted tooth (missing tooth area) altogether. The saline solution and any medicated mouthwash that we recommend should be enough to clean this area.

Eat soft foods : Throughout the entire healing process, you should eat soft foods that do not require a lot of chewing and are unlikely to become trapped in the empty socket(missing tooth area). Consider sticking to soups, yogurt, applesauce, and similar foods. Avoid hard toast, chips, and foods containing seeds.

However, the healing time for wisdom teeth extraction may still be much longer than that for a regular tooth, and a person may need to take more time off work or school.

Do not hesitate to call us if :

The swelling gets worse, instead of better.

You have fever, chills or redness.

You have trouble swallowing.

You have uncontrolled bleeding in the area.

The area continues to ooze or bleed after the first 24 hours.

Your tongue, chin or lip feels numb more than 3 to 4 hours after the procedure.

The extraction site becomes very painful , This may be a sign that you have developed a dry socket.

Did You
Know ?

Wisdom teeth can be difficult to reach while brushing because of their location in the mouth; as a result, they decay easily. Partially erupted wisdom teeth are particularly difficult to keep clean because they are still partly under the gums.

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