How to Pull a Broken Wisdom Tooth at Home
Dealing with a broken wisdom tooth can be a painful and daunting experience. However, in certain situations, you may find yourself needing to pull the tooth at home without immediate access to professional dental care. While it’s always best to consult a dentist, there are some steps you can follow to safely and effectively remove a broken wisdom tooth at home. In this article, we will guide you through the process of how to pull a broken wisdom tooth at home.
1. Gather the Necessary Supplies
Before attempting to pull a broken wisdom tooth at home, ensure you have the following supplies:
– Sterile gloves
– A clean towel or cloth
– Gauze or a clean cloth
– Ibuprofen or other over-the-counter pain relievers
– A cold compress
– Dental floss
– A mirror
2. Prepare the Area
Begin by washing your hands thoroughly and wearing sterile gloves. Clean the area around the broken wisdom tooth with a mild antiseptic solution to reduce the risk of infection. Gently wipe away any visible debris or food particles with a clean cloth or gauze.
3. Loosen the Tooth
Use dental floss to gently loosen the broken wisdom tooth. Thread the floss under the gumline and carefully move it back and forth to create a small space between the tooth and the gum. Be cautious not to pull too hard or cause damage to the surrounding gum tissue.
4. Apply Pressure
Once the floss is securely under the tooth, apply steady pressure while holding the floss in place. You may feel some resistance, but continue applying pressure until the tooth starts to loosen. Be patient and persistent, as it may take several attempts to fully loosen the tooth.
5. Remove the Tooth
When the tooth is loose enough, gently rock it back and forth to further loosen it. Once the tooth is loose, use the gauze or clean cloth to grip the tooth and pull it out. Make sure to remove the tooth in one piece to minimize pain and bleeding.
6. Stop the Bleeding
After removing the broken wisdom tooth, place a gauze pad or clean cloth over the extraction site and bite down firmly. Maintain pressure for about 30 minutes to an hour to help stop the bleeding. If bleeding persists, replace the gauze pad and continue applying pressure.
7. Manage Pain and Swelling
To manage pain and swelling, take over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen as directed on the label. Apply a cold compress to the affected area for 10-15 minutes at a time to reduce swelling. Avoid hot or spicy foods, as they can irritate the extraction site.
8. Seek Professional Dental Care
While you may have successfully pulled the broken wisdom tooth at home, it’s essential to follow up with a dentist. They can assess the extraction site, ensure proper healing, and address any complications that may arise. Schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible after the extraction.
Remember, while it’s possible to pull a broken wisdom tooth at home, it’s crucial to prioritize your safety and consult a professional when possible. If you experience severe pain, swelling, or bleeding, seek immediate medical attention.
