Extractions

Teeth extractions are a fairly common procedure. There are several reasons why a tooth or several teeth may need to be extracted. Sometimes it is necessary for an overly crowded mouth. Sometimes tooth decay can extend to the pulp of the tooth which can cause the tooth to become infected and need to be removed. Trauma to teeth can also be the cause for a tooth extraction if the trauma resulted in a broken tooth or an infection. Sometimes periodontal disease, which is the infection of tissues and bones surrounding the teeth, can cause the teeth to loosen and this may also be a reason to pull the tooth. Whatever the reason, if the need to extract a tooth arises the oral surgeons at Oral Facial Reconstruction and Implant center are here for you!

A surgical extraction can be somewhat complicated depending on each individual case, but the experienced oral surgeons at Oral Facial Reconstruction and Implant Center utilize the most advanced technology before, during and post-surgery. You can expect x-rays and images to be made before the surgery in order to develop the best plan of action for a tooth that needs to be extracted. Anesthesia is also administered for during the surgery and only the most state-of-the-art technologies and techniques are utilized by our oral surgeons.

After the surgery, you will need to rest. You need to be driven home by a friend or family member because of the anesthesia. You can expect for the extraction site to bleed for a little while after the surgery. Gauze will be applied at the completion of the surgery, and you will need to change it when it becomes soaked. If bleeding continues for longer than 24 hours you should call your oral surgeon. Rest when you return home, but do not lie flat. This could prolong the bleeding. Prop your head up on a pillow when lying down. Your oral surgeon will prescribe you pain medication, so if you become sore take as directed. You can also use an ice pack for the pain. Your oral surgeon might also provide you with a cleaning solution to clean the extraction site.

You will be limited to soft foods for a few days after your surgery. Some recommended foods are:

• Gelatin
• Pudding
• Yogurt
• Mashed Potatoes
• Ice Cream
• Thin Soups
• …and other food you can eat without chewing.

When drinking, make sure you do not use a straw. The sucking motion can loosen your sutures and slow the clotting process. The same goes for smoking. If you have prolonged pain, bleeding, irritation, or don't feel that the extraction site is healing properly call your oral surgeon for a follow up.

When removing a tooth it is important to consider what will be done with the empty space after that tooth is removed. Some teeth are in the back of the mouth, so that site can heal on its own with no complications. If it is necessary to remove another tooth, plans must be made. If a tooth is removed and nothing is done with the extraction site, the jaw bone will degenerate and change shape during healing, which can cause your teeth to shift. This can create problems in your bite and affect your ability to speak and chew.

If you want to fill the space with a dental implant, a sturdy jaw bone is necessary to place the implant. If you opt for a dental bridge, the bridge must be molded and placed before the teeth shift.

Your oral surgeon is always open to a conversation on what you would like to do with your extraction site before removing a tooth. They will be able to make a recommendation and lay out a treatment plan. Make sure to schedule follow-up appointments to properly care for your extraction site.