How an Oral Surgeon Performs Tooth Extractions

An oral surgeon can perform simple and difficult tooth extractions. Even if a regular dentist can perform this procedure, a surgeon is the ideal dental care provider for it. This surgeon can detect other maxillofacial problems other than the problem teeth. Here are the details about how tooth extractions happen in an oral surgeon’s clinic.

Before the procedure

The surgeon will assess the patient’s affected teeth and the surrounding soft tissues. Ordering dental X-rays will show the extent of the dental damage and bone density levels. The patient must tell the provider about supplements or medications. Past and current oral conditions and procedures are also important considerations.

Patients may request specific types of dental sedation for the tooth extractions, especially if dental fear is a problem. The surgeon can help the patient decide which option will benefit them the most. Understanding each one can help the patient prepare for it. Below are the available dental sedation options available:

• IV or intravenous sedation is for patients with severe dental fear. It is also a good form of sedation for long dental procedures. The patient will receive pain medications and a sedative through the veins. This is the highest form of dental sedation. Its effects can last for hours. That is why someone must drive the patient home after the tooth extractions.
• Oral conscious sedation comes in the form of a pill. The patient must take it about an hour before the procedure. The surgeon can use this type of sedation on its own. It can also be combined with IV sedation or laughing gas. Someone should drive the patient home after the tooth extractions.
• Laughing gas or nitrous oxide is the lightest level of dental sedation. The sedative takes effect once the patient inhales it. But the effects fade right away once the patient removes the nosepiece or mask. Patients who get this dental sedation can drive themselves home after the tooth extractions.

The process

Tooth extractions must be painless so that the patient remains comfortable and relaxed. That is why the surgeon will administer the preferred type of dental sedation first and then numb the area with an injection of local anesthetic. Specific dental instruments will help the surgeon loosen the tooth. Lifting the tooth from its socket will follow.

The surgeon may sometimes slice through the surrounding gum tissue to access the tooth. This applies to teeth that break off at the gums or have severe decay. Some teeth cannot separate from the jawbone right away. In this case, the surgeon will cut them into small pieces and then pull them out.

For impacted tooth extractions, the surgeon will need to free the teeth from underneath the gumline. This may involve osteotomy. The procedure will involve removing a tiny part of the bone tissue. Doing so will reveal the tooth, allowing its removal.

After the tooth extractions

There will be some bleeding after tooth extractions. This is normal since the surgeon removed teeth from their sockets. Place a sterile gauze over the extraction site and use it to apply pressure. This will help reduce the bleeding.

A clot will form over the extraction site. This will seal the hole and stop the bleeding. The clot must stay in place for at least two days after the tooth extractions. The surgeon will provide aftercare instructions for proper recovery.

Recovery

Different types of tooth extractions result in different recovery times. Most patients are ready to go back to regular activities in two to three days. The jawbone often takes weeks to fully heal. Only then can the patient get dental restorations. It will also be the right time for implant surgery. The following tips can help speed up one’s recovery:

• Follow the surgeon’s instructions when taking medications. Pain relievers and antibiotics will help manage pain and reduce infections.
• Rest for at least two days. Do not perform strenuous activities or exercises for two to three days. The surgeon will decide when to resume normal activities.
• Keep the extraction site clean. Rinse it gently two to three times a day. Refrain from brushing the extraction site until the surgeon decides it is all right to do so.

Tooth extractions from your oral surgeon will involve more detail

Extracting teeth may seem scary. But you can be sure that your oral surgeon will make it a pleasant experience. This provider will prioritize your comfort during the tooth extractions. Working with your surgeon will help you recover better and more quickly.

Request an appointment here: https://www.texasipc.com or call Texas Implant & Dental Specialists at (972) 535-6555 for an appointment in our Plano office.

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