When preventive or restorative procedures like cleanings, fillings, crowns, and root canals are unable to save a damaged or infected tooth, an extraction is typically the best way to preserve the health of your gums, bone, and remaining teeth. Tooth extractions might sound intimidating, but they’re often essential to a healthier, pain-free smile. Knowing what to expect can make the process easier, whether you’re dealing with impacted wisdom teeth, severe decay, or a fractured tooth. At Advanced Implant & Oral Surgery, Dr. Brandon Baker specializes in providing safe, comfortable extractions for patients who need them. He works only in this office and is available 5 days per week to ensure you are cared for before, during, and after your procedure. He offers IV sedation for those anxious about the procedure.
Why Would You Need a Tooth Extraction?
Tooth extractions are a commonly performed oral surgery procedure, but they’re not performed without good reason. Here are the most common situations where an extraction might be necessary:
1. Severe Tooth Decay
Extraction is often the best solution to prevent further complications when a tooth has decayed beyond repair and cannot be saved with a filling, crown, or root canal.
2. Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth can become impacted when they don’t fully emerge or align properly, causing pain, swelling, and infection. Extracting them can relieve discomfort and prevent long-term damage to surrounding teeth.
3. Overcrowded Teeth
For patients undergoing orthodontic treatment, a dentist may recommend removing one or more teeth to create space and achieve optimal alignment.
4. Gum Disease
Advanced cases of periodontal disease can loosen teeth to the point where extraction becomes the best option for preserving oral health.
5. Broken or Fractured Teeth
Extraction may be necessary to avoid infection or further damage if a tooth is so severely broken that it cannot be restored.
6. Preparation for Dental Implants
Sometimes, a damaged tooth is removed for an implant, which is a long-lasting and effective solution for restoring your smile. A bone graft may be required as a part of this process.
If unsure whether you need an extraction, Dr. Brandon Baker at Advanced Implant & Oral Surgery will assess your situation and work with your dentist to recommend a comprehensive plan for tooth removal and replacement for function.
What to Expect During a Tooth Extraction
Hearing “tooth extraction” might make some people anxious, but knowing what happens during the procedure can ease your worries. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:
1. Initial Consultation
Dr. Baker will review your medical and surgical history, evaluate your oral health, examine X-rays and/ or CBCT, and perform a clinical exam during your first appointment. This helps determine whether an extraction is the best option and, if so, what will be done to replace the tooth going forward.
2. Procedure
Whether you want to have IV sedation or not, Dr. Baker prioritizes your experience during the procedure by emphasizing a pain-free experience. Dissolvable stitches will be placed if needed.
3. Post-Procedure Care
After removing the tooth, a gauze pad will be placed to minimize bleeding. Stitches may be used for surgical extractions to promote faster healing.
At Advanced Implant & Oral Surgery, Dr. Baker ensures every patient feels as comfortable as possible during the extraction process.
Recovery Tips After a Tooth Extraction
Proper aftercare is essential for a smooth recovery. We will provide a detailed discussion of post-procedure instructions before your procedure, answering all of your questions to ensure the process is as stress-free as possible.