tooth

How to reach out if you need first aid?

We all encounter unexpected dental issues – a toothache, a loose implant crown, broken dentures, a trauma caused by an accident or something else that requires immediate intervention.

Please call 6 32 32 32 to book a first aid visit. If you are not calling during office hours, please leave your name, phone number and a description of the issue on the voicemail, and our administrators will contact you in the morning of the next working day.

How to relieve a toothache at home?

Temporary relief for a toothache can be provided by painkillers like ibuprofen and paracetamol. Avoid placing the painkiller on the gums and causing unnecessary irritation to the tooth. In no case should you exceed the daily recommended dosage noted on the package or information leaflet of the medicine.

Do not apply warm compresses, as this might cause the inflammation to spread. In the case of a trauma, it is recommended to apply a cold compress to the inflamed area. When making cold compresses, it is good to use a towel between the compress and the skin to avoid damaging the skin. Consuming cold non-alcoholic drinks can also provide relief.

It might be good to raise your pillow higher while sleeping, as this reduces the accumulation of inflammatory liquid in the head region, thus reducing the inflammation.

In the case of a fractured tooth, dentures or braces, it is recommended to keep the broken pieces and to bring them along to your visit.

When should a child visit the dentist for the first time?

It is important to start visiting the dentist straight after the first teeth have formed. This allows immediate intervention for smaller issues, as well as ensuring the child is educated in healthy dental care for years to come.

What is the cause of a toothache?

A toothache can be caused by several factors, and the level of pain as well as the other symptoms can differ. A toothache is usually caused by one of the three following factors: dental caries (cavities), dental nerve inflammations or the inflammation of the dental root tip.

Sometimes a toothache can also be caused by a gum inflammation. Gum inflammations are directly linked to dental hygiene. The microbes in the dental plaque irritate the gums, and this results in inflammation, redness, bleeding, itching and pain.

What is a dental caries?

A dental caries or dental cavity is a contagious disease caused by the microbes in the mouth. The microbes produce acid from the sugar that exists in food, which in turn damages the teeth.

These microbes can settle in at a very young age, as soon as the first teeth make an appearance, thus resulting in a vulnerable area. In most cases, they come from the parents who clean a pacifier in their mouth, feed the child with a spoon they have used for eating, or kiss a child on the mouth.

Four simultaneous factors are required for a dental cavity to form:

1) A tooth for the microbes to nest on

2) A particular type of microbe that produces dental cavities

3) Carbohydrates or food to produce acids

4) Time for the acids produced by the microbes to impact the teeth – this means that the cavities will form faster if a person eats often and does not clean the remaining food from their teeth

What is a dental nerve inflammation?

A dental nerve inflammation usually occurs if the dental caries has not been treated. A small cavity will become a large cavity, and the microbes reach the dental nerve through this opening. The inflammation can be acute (very painful) or chronic (with almost no pain).

What is a root canal tip inflammation?

If there are no symptoms associated with the dental nerve inflammation and the tooth is not treated, then the dental nerve will die and the microbes can reach the surrounding bone tissue through the tip of the root canal. An inflammation in the tissues surrounding the root tip then occurs. Again, this inflammation can be either acutely painful or chronic.

If the tooth is extremely painful and sensitive to biting or pressure, it could be an indication of an acute inflammation of the root tip. At first, the pain is constant, pulsating, and it is clearly linked to one tooth. As the inflammation progresses, the pain will become more acute, and it can transfer to the neighbouring teeth. The gums at the tip of the root canal will be red and inflamed and might also have an abscess. This can be accompanied by a general decline in health and a fever.

A chronic inflammation of the tip of the root can progress without any recognisable symptoms. This type of inflammation does not usually cause pain. In some cases, there can be a fistula formed on the gums near the root tip, producing a small amount of pus. This kind of inflammation is diagnosed based on the changes that are visible on x-rays, and it requires treatment even if there is no toothache. This constant source of inflammation is particularly dangerous for those who are suffering from cardiovascular diseases or who have artificial limbs. Therefore, it is important to have regular check-ups and treatments with your dentist.

One of my teeth is sensitive.

If a tooth has become sensitive to cold, heat or sugar, then you are experiencing the common signs of a dental cavity.

Sensitivity can also be caused by the exposed neck of a tooth or by so-called wedge defects in the gum line. A tooth can also develop a painful reaction to a changing temperature or pressure (when biting or during strong contact) if there is a fracture in the tooth. In the case of a fracture, the pain is usually stronger and it can be accompanied by bleeding gums.

In the case of a dental nerve inflammation, the pain is only apparent when an irritating factor (change in temperature, sugar) is present. As the inflammation progresses, the pain will continue even after the irritating factor has disappeared, and can reoccur independently. This pain is usually very strong, and it can transfer to the neighbouring teeth, thus making it difficult to point to one single painful tooth as the source. Due to the characteristics of the nervous system, the strongest pain often occurs during the night.

A short-term average pain and sensitivity to cold, heat and pressure can be present after visiting the dentist and after applying a filling to a broken tooth. This type of pain should subside with time. However, if the pain is still present after 4-6 weeks, it is recommended to contact your dentist.

How much does a root canal treatment cost?

The cost of a root canal treatment depends on its nature, and on whether the treatment is applied to a tooth with one, two or three roots. The total cost of a root canal treatment at Kliinik 32 is 330-460 euros for a tooth with one root canal. For two root canals it is 380-510 euros, and for three root canals the cost is 430-610 euros. This price includes opening the root canal, filling the canal, x-rays, temporary fillings and anaesthesia.

It is not possible to determine the final cost of a root canal treatment before starting the treatment, because in some cases it can be difficult to open the canals, and this may require several visits. Also, if the tooth requires further restoring with a crown, it might be necessary to install a glass fibre support into the root canal. The cost of the glass fibre support is 110 euros.

What is a microscopic root canal treatment?

At Kliinik 32, we use dental microscopes for more complicated cases of root canal treatments. The microscope provides a magnification of up to 20 times, which enables the dentist to have a detailed view of the root canal and the narrow side canals to be revealed. With the microscope, it is possible to treat root canals that might otherwise be considered as impenetrable. The microscope also reveals dental fractures that are invisible to the eye and enables more effective treatment.

What should I keep in mind after a dental treatment?

A tooth can be sensitive to cold or heat after a tooth filling. It can also be slightly painful in response to pressure. This is completely normal, and it will disappear with time. After receiving a temporary filling, it is recommended that you avoid eating for one hour.

What should I keep in mind after a root canal treatment?

A root canal treatment is a time-consuming and complicated procedure. The tooth will often have several root canals (from one to four), and access to the teeth at the back of the mouth can be difficult. The treated tooth can also become sensitive or even start hurting, because it is a cause of inflammation which will take time to subside. However, these symptoms should disappear with time.

If you come to the clinic for a first aid visit with strong pain, it might happen that it is not possible to immediately provide complete pain relief. A chronic root canal inflammation can become acute at the start of the treatment, and may start causing pain. In the case of strong pain, swelling, fever or other symptoms, you should arrange an immediate visit to the dentist or at least contact the clinic for further instructions.

At interim stages during the root canal treatment, the doctor will apply a temporary filling to the tooth. It is recommended to avoid eating for one hour after the temporary filling has been installed, as it is still soft and could become loose.

What exactly is a Tooth Spa?

Dental health and hygiene are important to everyone. This is why we recommend taking care of all of your oral needs by visiting the Tooth Spa, in addition to your regular annual check-ups with the dentist.

The Tooth Spa is an excellent solution for anyone who would like to keep their youthful smile for a long time with little effort – all you need to do is visit the Tooth Spa at least once a year, and to follow the advice we give you. However, we would like to point out that the Tooth Spa only suits patients who do not suffer from advanced gum disease or gingivitis, or from the gum infection known as periodontitis. If a patient has been diagnosed with gingivitis or periodontitis, they will first need treatment by a periodontist.

After a visit to the Tooth Spa, your teeth will be perfectly clean, and it will be easier and more convenient to continue with your daily oral hygiene procedures. The oral hygienists from Kliinik 32 – Julia Janpol, Eveli Hark and Krista Aas – will look after you at the Tooth Spa.

How can I make my teeth whiter?

Teeth whitening is the most popular cosmetic procedure. This procedure will make your teeth brighter and remove pigmentation. It can be done at the clinic or at home.

Before whitening, it is important to pay attention to your teeth with fillings, crowns or laminates, as these teeth will not respond to the whitening and will retain their current state. In order to achieve a perfect line of teeth after whitening, it is necessary to replace old fillings, crowns and laminates.

How are teeth whitened at the dental clinic?

Whitening your teeth during a visit to the dental hygienist will take approximately one hour. The doctor will assess the condition of your teeth including:

  • Carious defects (cavities) that must be repaired before whitening, because during the whitening there is a risk that the whitening gel could enter the cavity and cause sensitivity
  • Tartar and dental plaque must be removed so that the dental surface is clean and the gel can have an equal impact on all areas.

Once your dental condition has been assessed and your teeth are suitable for whitening, the dental hygienist will clean your teeth using a paste. After that, the dental hygienist will determine your current dental colour to see the difference in the tone after whitening.

Kliinik 32 uses the Zoom lamp and OpalEscence gel for the teeth whitening. First, we will apply a protector along the gum line to prevent the gel from making contact with your gums. In the next step, we will apply the gel to your teeth, and activate it for 15 minutes using the Zoom lamp. This procedure can be repeated 4 times for 15 minutes each during the same visit. However, two applications are usually sufficient for achieving a satisfactory result. At the end of the procedure, the gel is removed from your teeth, and the protector is removed from your gums.

How are teeth whitened using a gel?

Kliinik 32 uses the OpalEscence Boost gel for the purpose of dental whitening. First, we will apply a protector along the gum line to prevent the gel from making contact with your gums. As the next step, we will apply the gel and leave it for 45 minutes. After this time, the gel and the gum protector are removed.

How often can I whiten my teeth?

The effect of the whitening procedure is individual. For example, yellow teeth will respond better than greyish teeth. After the first procedure, the patient can decide if they want to repeat the procedure or if the present result is satisfactory.

As whitening involves a chemical procedure and the gel has to enter different layers of the teeth, it can sometimes cause sensitivity during the procedure or afterwards. This sensitivity will usually subside in a couple of days.

It must be noted that for 24 hours after the whitening procedure, you should not drink black coffee, tea and red wine, nor should you eat foods with a strong pigmentation (chicken curry, beet salad, etc.).

How can I whiten my teeth at home?

In order to apply a whitening product at home, you must first visit a dentist or a dental hygienist to assess the condition of your teeth (for cavities, tartar or dental plaque). Your teeth will be repaired and the tartar as well as the dental plaque removed, when necessary. After this, we will make a mould to produce retainers for your teeth at the dental laboratory. When you receive the retainers, the dental hygienist/dentist will explain how to achieve the most effective and correct whitening result. The level of carbamide peroxide in the dental gel used for whitening at home is 10%.

It is not recommended to apply a dental whitening product for more than 6 days.

What is gum disease?

Gum disease is the second most common dental issue after caries (cavities). Gum disease can generally be categorised into two types: gingivitis, i.e. gum inflammation; and periodontitis, i.e. inflammation that damages the bottom structure of a tooth.

What is the cause of gingivitis?

Gingivitis is usually caused by dental plaque with bacteria that accumulates along the gum line. In rarer cases, the gum disease can be caused by viruses, fungi, general diseases and traumas. The development and progress of gingivitis can be complicated by factors such as smoking, taking certain medicines and hormonal changes in the body during puberty or pregnancy.

The first symptom of a gum inflammation is the presence of blood during brushing. As the dental plaque accumulates further, the symptoms will increase, while the gums will swell, becoming red and sensitive. The symptoms are modest during the starting phase and will progress in a moderate fashion.

An exception is acute gingivitis with lesions, which is characterised by strong pain accompanied by generally feeling unwell and a fever, as well as a gum line that is covered with a greyish layer. The disease mostly occurs in younger people as a result of general stress, inadequate dental hygiene and smoking.

Timely treatment will enable us to stop the disease, and the tissue of the gums can be restored to its original form. The treatment is based on the principle of removing the dental plaque that has caused the disease, as well as correcting the other supporting factors (tartar, faulty fillings, broken teeth) and implementing proper dental hygiene. At home, the treatment is based on thorough and regular brushing with a soft and thick toothbrush, and additional cleaning with dental floss or an interdental brush. Additional means include using a toothpaste and a mouthwash with chlorhexidine or ether oils. Specific dental care products and their uses will be defined by the dentist based on the individual needs of the patient.

Untreated gingivitis can progress to an inflammation that will damage the bottom structure of the teeth or periodontitis.

What is the cause of periodontitis?

Periodontitis is a chronic inflammation that damages the bottom structure of the tooth. It can completely destroy the supporting foundation of a tooth, making the tooth loose and in later stages causing dental loss. Lighter and more moderate chronic forms of the disease are common; while aggressive and difficult periodontitis is rarer.

Periodontitis is caused by a specific aggregate of bacteria (biofilm) that accumulates between the tooth and the gums in so-called periodontal pockets. The disease forms as a result of a general decrease of the immune system, as well as the presence of the supporting factors that include smoking, certain general diseases (diabetes, coronary heart disease), genetic liability and stress.

Periodontitis usually does not cause significant symptoms during its starting phase. Typical symptoms include bleeding gums, redness, swelling and sensitivity during brushing. It can also result in a bad taste in the mouth and vague tingling in the gums. The disease is already advanced once the tooth starts moving, excretes pus and becomes painful.

The foundation of periodontitis treatment involves gaining control over the inflammation. First of all, the patient is presented with guidance for proper dental hygiene, and the dental plaque consisting of bacteria is removed from the surface of the tooth as well as from the periodontal pockets. The factors supporting the accumulation of bacteria are also removed, including tartar, faulty dentures and fillings. Broken teeth are fixed and hopeless teeth are removed. In some cases, it is necessary to apply a surgical treatment to remove the bacteria and tartar from deeper periodontal pockets. Moving teeth can be fixed in place by using various casts, or they can be removed and replaced with implants or dentures. It is recommended to follow general healthy procedures, including having a healthy attitude, while giving up smoking and other unhealthy habits. A thorough dental hygiene regime at home is the main factor for the success of the treatment in the long-term.

Periodontitis is an irreversible process. Modern dental care can stop the progress of the disease; however, there are no methods for fully restoring the gum tissue. A successful treatment therefore depends on detecting the disease as early as possible and applying the proper dental care.

What should I keep in mind after gum treatments?

The teeth and gums can be sensitive after a treatment. It is recommended to avoid cold or hot food/drinks during that time. The sensitivity usually subsides in one or two weeks.

Regardless of the sensitivity, it is important to follow the guidelines for hygiene that have been presented by your doctor. Clean the interdental areas using an interdental brush or dental floss, unless your doctor recommends otherwise.

If the doctor or the dental hygienist has recommended using mouthwash, rinse your mouth twice a day during the two weeks with a chlorhexidine solution for approximately one minute. Proceed with this rinsing 30 minutes after brushing. The wound can be rinsed for up to two weeks, unless the doctor has said otherwise. The solution can cause some pigmentation, but it is not permanent and it is easy to remove after the treatment.

Prosthetics

How can missing teeth be replaced?

Missing teeth can be replaced by dentures or implants. Dentures enable the correction of defects in the dental crown, and they can replace single missing teeth or an entire row of teeth when needed. Modern denture technology uses a number of different solutions and materials to restore the perfect smile, based on the wishes and opportunities of the patient.

Kliinik 32 has a special dental lab to provide the best possible service. It is equipped with modern technology and staffed with experienced dental technicians. It is extremely important for the dentists to work together with the dental technicians, as close cooperation guarantees the fastest and best treatments for patients. Kliinik 32 values dentures with a natural look.

For surgery and dentures, the doctor will compile a treatment plan that is specific to an individual patient. This plan will outline the required number of implants as well as dentures, as well as a fixed plastic bridge or a metal ceramic bridge. The price will depend on the number of implants and the method of fixation chosen by the patient. The exact cost also depends on the choices and needs of the patient.

What should I keep in mind after installing dentures?

Removable dentures can be uncomfortable to wear at first. Be patient and keep wearing the dentures regardless of the discomfort to adjust to them as quickly as possible. The first two weeks are the most difficult. During this time, only remove the dentures for cleaning and wear the dentures even during the night. Later, the dentures should be removed for sleeping at night.

When they are not being worn, the dentures should be kept in a damp napkin inside a special box. Otherwise the dentures will become dry and fragile. The dentures can also bend so that their fit seems inaccurate.

How are dentures cleaned?

Dentures should be carefully cleaned twice a day. Dentures are cleaned using a toothbrush and a gentle soap, and are rinsed under flowing water. It is not recommended to use toothpaste for cleaning the dentures, as the paste can damage the delicate surface of the dentures. Additionally, you should use specific chemicals for cleaning (soluble tablets) and to disinfect the dentures. Pay special attention to cleaning the supporting clamps. Products for dentures can be purchased from a pharmacy.

What is an orthodontic treatment?

An orthodontic treatment forces tightly set teeth into a straight line, closes gaps between teeth and restores the positions of teeth that have shifted as a result of gum disease (periodontitis). The doctor will conduct checks before initiating the treatment in order to compile a treatment plan and find the best possible solution in cooperation with the patient. It is possible to produce special samples, allowing the patient to see the final result of the treatment in advance.

What is the cost of an orthodontic treatment?

The total cost of an orthodontic treatment depends on the braces that are used and the duration of the treatment. On average, an orthodontic treatment takes 1.5 years, and the cost for the treatment of both jaws using metal braces is approximately 2600-3100 euros.

Does the health insurance fund provide compensation for an orthodontic treatment?

The Estonian Health Insurance Fond compensates the costs of orthodontic consultations for patients up to 19 years of age, and the cost of the entire orthodontic treatment for complicated cases.

Kliinik 32 keeps records of the waiting list for orthodontic treatment in the Denta software program, which is used by several dental clinics. A patient can be added to the waiting list by an administrator or a doctor. The following information is entered in the database when the patient is signing up for the waiting list: first and last name, personal identification code, entry date, required service and issue. The longest allowable time on the waiting list for individuals that are under 19 years of age with medical insurance is 9 months.

What are braces?

Braces are meant to be used for improving the positions of the teeth and occlusions. Metal braces are the most popular type, as they are strong and durable as well as less costly. Ceramic braces offer a more subtle alternative.

The arch in the braces forces the teeth into the desired position. The fixation mechanism of the braces is categorised as normal and self-regulating.

The choice of braces depends on the patient’s problem. More detailed recommendations will be presented by the orthodontist at the time of compiling a treatment plan.

What are invisible braces?

Braces can also be installed in the inner side of teeth. This is the best solution for patients who do not want others to know that they are wearing braces, but still want to improve the positions of their teeth and their smile.

Kliinik 32 uses lingual braces belonging to the Incognito system. These are individual braces where the whole system is produced specifically for one patient, and  the shape and characteristics of each individual tooth is taken into account. Therefore, the braces are comfortable for the patient to wear, and the end result is better and faster.

Are there any alternatives to braces?

The Invisalign system is a new approach to correcting the positions of the teeth. Instead of braces, retainers are used for aligning the teeth. The retainers are invisible and will gradually guide the teeth into their correct positions. The process is first conducted on a computer to compile a virtual model for the corrections. The retainers are then produced based on the model, and will gradually force the teeth into their correct positions. The patient will receive a new retainer every two weeks. Visits to the orthodontist should take place every 2-3 months, and the duration of the treatment is approximately 1.5 years. Invisalign is a suitable solution in cases of slight and moderate occlusion issues.

What should I do if the ending of a metal wire is causing irritation?

Try to push the wire away from the irritated area using a blunt object. If this does not help, cover the ending with wax, cotton or sugar-free chewing gum until you can visit your doctor. Cutting the wire ending should only be the last resort if no professional help is available. Apply Urgo Mouth Ulcer gel (available in pharmacies without a prescription) to the wounds inside your cheek.

What should I do if the ending of the main arch protrudes from the molar brace?

Try reinserting the wire into the brace. If this is not possible, cover the wire with wax until your dentist appointment. Cutting the wire ending should only be the last resort if no professional help is available. Apply Urgo Mouth Ulcer gel (available in pharmacies without a prescription) to the wounds inside your cheek.

What should I do if the braces become loose from the arch?

Usually, the braces will remain attached to the arch. If the braces have turned around from the arch and are causing irritation, try to turn them back toward the correct position and fix them in place with orthodontic wax. Do not discard the braces if they do become loose from the arch, as it is often possible to reattach them. Call your orthodontist and inform them about the situation.

What should I do if the retention wire breaks?

The retention wire can be reinstalled by the orthodontist or a doctor. This should be done as soon as possible.

What should I do if my teeth start hurting after wearing braces?

Teeth can become sensitive after the activation of braces. Take a painkiller 1 hour before your orthodontist visit. Rinsing with salt is also useful after the visit (dissolve 1 teaspoon of salt in 1 glass of warm water).

What should I do if food gets stuck between the braces?

Use dental floss or an interdental brush to remove the food.

What should I do if I forgot the time of my appointment?

Contact your orthodontist office immediately and arrange a new appointment. Each missed visit means a longer treatment duration and an additional cost.

What should I do if I cannot come to an appointment?

Call your orthodontist office and arrange a new appointment beforehand. In this way, we can use your original appointment time to help someone else.

What is the meaning of implantology in dental care?

Implants are the best option for replacing missing teeth. Surgically installed dental implants are gaining popularity as the most modern treatment method for replacing missing teeth. An implant is a perfect solution for those patients whose oral cavity is in a good condition, but who have lost one or several teeth. Using this method, a dental implant or an artificial root is installed into the jaw, and is covered by a ceramic or a metal ceramic crown once it is fixed in place. In the case of several adjacent missing teeth, some of the teeth will be replaced by implants, and bridge dentures with several teeth or an entire set of teeth will be applied on top.

What is a dental implant?

An implant is a small titanium screw that replaces the natural dental root. The implant is installed into the jaw, and over a period of time (3-6 months) it will settle fully into place. Implants are usually installed using a local anaesthesia. Kliinik 32 provides the option of a general anaesthesia for longer procedures. Long-term studies and clinical use have proven that implants are safe, they are not harmful to natural tissues, and they enable attaching different types of dentures.

Is there an age limit for implants?

There are no age limits for implants. However, the jawbone has to be in a satisfactory state. Once a tooth is removed or lost, it is recommended to immediately fill the empty spot with a new tooth. Otherwise, the bone will start to shrink (by approximately 30-50% in 6 months), and the remaining teeth will shift towards the gap, which in turn can cause uneven wear.

Waiting for a longer period of time to replace a missing tooth makes the treatment more complex and costly. A successful treatment involves good oral hygiene and regular check-ups. Kliinik 32 will conduct a thorough evaluation before initiating the treatment that will include clinical studies of the oral cavity, 3D x-ray studies where necessary, and models to be used for dental mapping.

Does Kliinik 32 provide treatments under an anaesthetic?

Kliinik 32 has dental surgery rooms that enable specialists to conduct the procedures under an anaesthetic.

The dental surgery equipment at Kliinik 32 includes an anaesthetic machine with an integrated anaesthetic monitor, which is similar to the devices used in larger hospitals for general surgeries. The patient is looked after by an anaesthesiologist and a nurse. After the surgery, the patient can comfortably recover in a dedicated waking up room.

What are the benefits of anaesthesia?

Anaesthesia is a good option during longer surgical procedures involving a more complicated treatment. It is also an alternative for patients with an extreme fear of dentists. However, in most cases we can use other methods of painless treatment to reduce the fear and discomfort.

Is a treatment under anaesthesia safe?

In order to guarantee your safety  under anaesthesia, it is important to answer a number of questions about your general health, and follow to these guidelines for safe treatment:

At the time of the surgery, you must not have any illness with a fever or a respiratory infection.

Do not eat or drink at least 6 hours before the surgery.

Take your daily medicine as always, unless your doctor has instructed you otherwise.

Wear comfortable clothes.

Ask someone to pick you up and take you home after the surgery.

To guarantee the safety of our patients, Kliinik 32 has a resuscitation device – an automated external defibrillator or AED device– that will provide an efficient resuscitation even before an ambulance arrives. The staff of Kliinik 32 have received the required training for such a resuscitation.

How much does treatment under anaesthesia cost?

At Kliinik 32 one hour of treatment under an anaesthetic costs 400 euros, plus the cost of the dental treatment.

What should I keep in mind after undergoing a tooth extraction or a surgery?

The removal of a tooth, like every other procedure in the mouth, is a surgical process and your body will need to rest afterwards. Depending on the particular procedure, it is recommended to avoid strenuous physical activities and training for a while.

After a surgery or a tooth extraction, a sterile piece of gauze is applied to the wound for 10-15 minutes. This stops the bleeding and enables a blood clot to form. A bag of ice will be placed on your face after the surgery to prevent swelling and slow down the bleeding.

When can I eat after a tooth extraction?

You will not be permitted to eat during the first couple of hours after a tooth extraction or a surgery. Consume softer and colder foods during the first couple of days. After a surgical procedure, you should avoid hot food and drinks and should use a straw for drinking, as these activities could cause a vacuum in your mouth and the blood clot may start shifting. An empty wound is at risk of an inflammation and the healing will take longer.

Can I smoke after the surgery?

You should give up smoking for a couple of days, or at least try to smoke as little as possible following the surgery, as smoking prevents blood from clotting and slows down the healing of the wound.

Can I rinse my mouth after the surgery?

Rinsing your mouth after a tooth extraction or surgery is not necessary, as this might also shift the blood clot from the wound. You should not poke the wound with your tongue to avoid causing bleeding or removing the clot from the wound. Also, you should not touch the wound with your finger, as the wound might become infected with microbes causing an inflammation. Careful rinsing of the wound using a mouthwash containing chlorhexidine is recommended from the second day after the surgery or tooth extraction.

What should I do about the pain after the surgery?

The wound can cause pain once the anaesthesia wears off. Use the painkillers that have been recommended by the dentist to reduce the pain and swelling, when necessary. Never take painkillers on an empty stomach. Avoid aspirin and other medicines containing acetylsalicylic acid, as these medicines will make the blood thinner, stop blood from clotting and cause the wound to bleed again.

Can I apply a compress to my swollen cheek?

You must not apply a damp compress to your cheek after a tooth extraction and after surgery or for a toothache, as it will cause swelling in the soft tissue.

Is swelling after the surgery normal?

Swelling is completely normal after a surgery or a more complicated tooth extraction. This swelling can be prevented by applying a bag of ice to the area periodically for twenty minutes after the surgery. The swelling might be the most extreme on the third day after the surgery. It can be accompanied by difficulties when opening your mouth, so that movement can be restricted and eating might be difficult.

There might be a small fever on the first day after the surgery. Some initial bleeding is also perfectly normal. The bleeding can be stopped by pressing sterile cotton onto the wound for 10-15 minutes. Pressing a small tea bag onto the wound can also help.

What if the bleeding does not stop?

Please contact your doctor if the bleeding does not stop, you have a fever, if there is a bad taste in your mouth or if the pain is strong!

Can other clinics send their patients to Kliinik 32 for the purpose of taking x-rays?

All Estonian dentists and doctors from other fields of medicine can send their patients to Kliinik 32 to take x-rays. The whole procedure will last 5-10 minutes, depending on the studied area and the required number of images. Taking an x-ray image takes around 30 seconds and developing the spatial image takes two to three minutes. The patient can obtain the x-ray images on an electronic storage device or via e-mail. Our 3D x-ray images come with free software that allows the doctor to view and edit the image.

Are dental x-rays safe?

Dental 3D x-rays work with much lower dosages of radiation than other medical computer tomographs. Protective aprons are used during the process and it is completely safe for the patients.

What does a 3D x-ray image look like?

Foto 3D röntgenpildist

What does a panoramic x-ray image look like?

Panoraamröntgenpilt

What does a side x-ray image look like?

Külgülesvõtte röntgenpilt

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