18
Dec
What Should I Know about Surgical Teeth Removal Treatment?
Through restorative dental treatments, dentists can often repair and restore compromised teeth to avoid having them removed. Sometimes, however, tooth removal is the best course of action to protect your oral health. At Wes Park Family Dentistry, Dr. Bryce Westmoreland and our team offer both simple and surgical teeth removal services to our patients in Perry, Georgia.
If the thought of extraction causes you concern, the answers to the following questions can help put you at ease:
When is tooth extraction needed?
Dr. Westmoreland may recommend extracting a tooth for the following reasons:
- Problems with overcrowding
- Untreatable decay
- Irreparable structural damage due to accidental injury
- Extensive bone loss from gum disease
- Impacted or problematic wisdom teeth
How are teeth extracted?
Basically, there are two kinds of extractions: simple and surgical.
Simple extractions are done when the tooth can be accessed above the gum line. After numbing your mouth, Dr. Westmoreland will use forceps to loosen your tooth and have it removed. If a tooth is lodged under your gumline or within the bone, surgical tooth removal is needed. We’ll make a small incision in your gums, remove the bone that’s impeding us from reaching your tooth, and then have it removed. Afterward, we’ll suture your gum to help the incision heal.
Does tooth removal hurt?
Our tooth extraction services are performed under local anesthesia for your comfort and convenience. IV sedation is also an option for impacted wisdom teeth removal for complete relaxation during your procedure.
Visit Our Experienced And Welcoming Dental Team
New Patients: (478) 488-3561 | Existing Patients: (478) 987-7863
Schedule Now
How long does it take to remove a tooth?
That depends on the type of extraction and the complexity of your procedure. Before extracting a tooth, Dr. Westmoreland will take X-rays of your mouth to get a clear picture of the hidden anatomy of your tooth. This helps us determine the safest and most effective way to have it removed.
How do I prepare for surgical tooth removal?
Generally, patients are asked to fast from food and drinks for eight hours before their extraction procedure. Smoking and alcohol should also be avoided for 12 – 24 hours before your appointment. We recommend you wear loose-fitting clothing for greater comfort in the dental chair.
What can I expect from my recovery?
It’s normal to experience some bleeding, gum swelling, and soreness after surgical tooth removal. Ice packs, warm saltwater rinses, and OTC pain medication can help ease these symptoms. Rest is essential to your recovery as it promotes quicker healing.
You can brush your teeth, but avoid the extraction site. A blood clot will form where your tooth was removed to protect your gum and bone during your healing.
Don’t smoke or drink alcohol during recovery. Eat only soft food to avoid chewing and avoid using a straw. You should feel back to normal in 1 – 2 weeks.
Where can I find a reputable dentist to take out wisdom teeth near me?
Wes Park Family Dentistry is your one-stop shop for wisdom tooth removal in the Perry, GA area. To schedule an appointment, contact Dr. Bryce Westmoreland at (478) 488-3561.