Extractions
You and your oral surgeon may determine that you need a tooth extraction for any number of reasons. Some teeth are extracted because they are severely decayed; others may have advanced periodontal disease, or have broken in a way that cannot be repaired. Other teeth may need removal because they are poorly positioned in the mouth (such as impacted teeth), or in preparation for orthodontic treatment.
The removal of a single tooth can lead to problems related to your chewing ability, problems with your jaw joint, and shifting teeth, which can have a major impact on your dental health.
To avoid these complications, in most cases, Drs. Royal, Azzopardi, Moores, Chames, Kissoondial or Haskins will discuss alternatives to extractions as well as replacement of the extracted tooth.
The Extraction Process
At the time of extraction the doctor will need to numb your tooth, jaw bone and gums that surround the area with a local anesthetic.
During the extraction process you will feel a lot of pressure. This is from the process of firmly rocking the tooth in order to widen the socket for removal.
You feel the pressure without pain as the anesthetic has numbed the nerves stopping the transference of pain, yet the nerves that transmit pressure are not profoundly affected.
If you do feel pain at any time during the extraction please let us know right away.
Sectioning a tooth
Some teeth require sectioning. This is a very common procedure done when a tooth is so firmly anchored in its socket or the root is curved and the socket can’t expand enough to remove it. The doctor simply cuts the tooth into sections then removes each section one at a time.
After Tooth Extraction
After tooth extraction, it’s important for a blood clot to form to stop the bleeding and begin the healing process. Bite on a gauze pad for 30-45 minutes immediately after the appointment. If the bleeding or oozing still persists, place another gauze pad and bite firmly for another 30 minutes. You may have to do this several times to staunch the flow of blood.
After the blood clot forms it is important to not disturb or dislodge the clot. Do not rinse vigorously, suck on straws, smoke, drink alcohol or brush teeth next to the extraction site for 72 hours. These activities may dislodge or dissolve the clot and hinder the healing process. Limit vigorous exercise for the next 24 hours, as this increases blood pressure and may cause more bleeding from the extraction site.
After the tooth is extracted you may feel some pain and experience some swelling. An ice pack or an unopened bag of frozen peas or corn applied to the area will keep swelling to a minimum. Take pain medications as prescribed. The swelling usually subsides after 48 hours.
Use pain medication as directed. Call our office if the medication doesn’t seem to be working. If antibiotics are prescribed, continue to take them for the indicated length of time even if signs and symptoms of infection are gone. Drink lots of fluids and eat nutritious, soft food on the day of the extraction. You can eat normally as soon as you are comfortable.
It is important to resume your normal dental routine after 24 hours. This should include brushing and flossing your teeth at least once a day. This will speed healing and help keep your mouth fresh and clean.
After a few days you should feel fine and can resume your normal activities. If you have heavy bleeding, severe pain, continued swelling for 2-3 days, or a reaction to the medication, call our office immediately.
Patient Reviews for Tooth Extractions
Oakland Oral Surgery & Dental Implant Center
Patient Review
Dr. Royal and surgical staff are fantastic. Sam was patient and informative every step of the way. NO STRESS and very minimal discomfort.
- Clifford F
Patient Review
I had an infected tooth extracted. I was nervous and in pain and the staff and Dr. made me feel safe and calmed me down. I was an emergency patient and they took me right away. Professional, kind and friendly. I would refer family and friends to this office. Evelyn the assistant was extremely helpful.
- Patricia C
Patient Review
Very professional and very kind.
- Christian J
Patient Review
Have had many extractions over the last few years. This was the quickest and best. No pain or swelling and healed within 2 weeks.
- Dave G
Patient Review
Everyone I had contact with, from the young ladies who manned the counter, to the two young ladies who were the surgical assistants, were most proficient in their duties and possessed a positive demeanor before, during and after my appointments.
- EDMUND K
Patient Review
Very pleased!
- Lisa S
Patient Review
I took my son to the South Lyon office to have his wisdom teeth pulled. Everyone there was very nice and helpful.
- Joyce V
Patient Review
I will definitely refer my friends and family to Dr Rob
- Gino P
Patient Review
Everyone was so caring and gentle when performing an emergency tooth extraction. My husband was very anxious and they were experts in helping to calm him. Thank you so much for all of your help. Marie
- William S
Patient Review
Excellent
- Mark S
Patient Review
Dr. Azzopardi removed a cracked molar. Although I was nervous about the extraction, his kind and very caring demeanor made the entire process an absolute breeze! He works quickly with such ease and explains what he is doing, making the process much less scary. This extraction was a snap! Can’t recommend him enough.
- Carolyn M
Patient Review
Dr Chames & Casey, his lead assistant made me feel so much less anxious about the extraction. Dr Chames worked with such precision that almost before I knew it, the procedure was over. Caring & empathetic.
- Nancy L
Patient Review
Doctor assistant Ana made me feel comfortable and at ease before surgery. Surgeon Azzopardi did also.
- Denise E
Patient Review
Dr. Azzopardi is the BEST!
- Tammy P