Post-Op Tooth Extraction Care

There are many reasons why a tooth may need to be extracted. Tooth decay, gum disease, or even for orthodontic purposes name a few. After the tooth is removed, you may need stitches and you will need to follow strict instructions that our doctors at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania will give you. After the surgery, you will need to rest and you should expect the extraction site to bleed a little following extraction. In addition, here are a few things to remember during post-op care.

If bleeding continues for longer than 24 hours you should call our office immediately. Once you return home after the surgery you should rest, but do not lie flat. This could prolong the bleeding. One of our doctors will prescribe you pain medication, as well as cleaning solution for the extraction site, so if you become sore take as directed. It’s important to limit yourself to soft foods such as gelatin, pudding, yogurt, mashed potatoes, etc. so that the stitches are not punctured. When drinking, make sure you do not use a straw, because the sucking motion can loosen your sutures and slow the clotting process.

If you are experiencing tooth discomfort or have questions about post-op aftercare, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.oralsurgerypa.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania located in Philadelphia, call 215-463-4141. 

Oral Cancer Cautions

Cancer is defined as the uncontrollable growth of cells that invade and cause damage to surrounding tissue. When these cells invade the oral cavity, which includes the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor, of the mouth, hard and soft palate, sinuses, and throat, it can be life-threatening if not diagnosed and treated early. It is important to be aware of the symptoms that occur with oral cancer. Therefore, if you are concerned by the following, our doctors at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania recommend performing oral cancer self-examination monthly.

The most common symptoms of oral cancer are lumps or bumps, rough spots, crusts, or eroded areas on the lips, gums, or other areas inside the mouth. Persistent sores on the face, neck, or mouth that bleed easily and do not heal are other common characteristics. If you have symptoms that suggest oral cancer, one of our doctors will check your mouth and throat for red or white patches, lumps, swelling, or other problems.

If you would like to discuss oral cancer treatment, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.oralsurgerypa.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania located in Philadelphia, call 215-463-4141. 

Beyond Teeth: What’s Inside Your Mouth?

Your mouth is made up of more than just teeth, so good oral health goes way beyond simply brushing and flossing. The oral cavity consists of several components in addition to the teeth, including gingiva (gums), tongue, palate, cheeks, lips and floor of the mouth. Whether we are taking preventative care, making acute repairs to your smile, or restoring it completely, our staff Oral Surgery Consultants of Pennsylvania offers a wide variety of services to keep these components looking and feeling their best.

The next time you’re brushing your teeth, spend a minute looking at the parts of the mouth that lie farther inside the oral cavity. Knowing what these structures do and what they look like can help you to maintain optimal oral health. When you open your mouth and look in the mirror, everything that isn’t a tooth is covered by a protective lining called the oral mucosa. The oral mucosa plays an essential role in maintaining your oral health, as well as your overall health, by defending your body from germs and other irritants that enter your mouth.

Also covered by oral mucosa, gums play a critical role in your oral health. Healthy gums are firm, cover the entire tooth root, and do not bleed when brushed, poked, or prodded. Whether you are eight-years-old or eighty-years-old it is important to practice good oral hygiene to keep all of your oral cavity components healthy by brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing.