Tooth Extraction and Oral Surgery

Tooth-Extraction-Mesa-AZ

A simple tooth extraction is a routine procedure to remove a visible tooth, usually with a local anesthetic given to the patient to numb the surrounding area.

A tooth extraction may be prescribed if:

  • A tooth is too extensively damaged from decay or trauma
  • It is infected
  • There is excessive crowding
  • The tooth is not considered to be fixable

Oral surgery may become necessary for a variety of reasons, such as a wisdom tooth extraction as a result of an impacted tooth completely entrapped under gum and bone.

In most cases tooth extraction care and recovery will last a few days. Your dentist or oral surgeon will offer post-operative care instructions.

Call Palmer Dental for extraction services and aftercare for patients of all ages.

When is Wisdom Tooth Extraction the Best Option?

Wisdom-Tooth-Extraction-Mesa-AZ

For many people, inadequate space in the mouth does not permit wisdom teeth to erupt properly and become fully functional.

While it may not be necessary to remove wisdom teeth in some cases, wisdom tooth extraction is the best option with the presence of a problem such as decay or infection, pain, swelling, or as a preventative measure to avoid more serious issues in the future.

When impaction of wisdom teeth is evident and left untreated, there is the potential for harmful effects, including:

  • Infection from trapped bacteria and food under the gum tissue
  • Decay
  • Damage to nearby or adjacent teeth
  • Cysts can produce deformity that requires extensive surgery
  • Tumors are relatively uncommon but can become malignant

We recommend tooth extraction care for several days and a short follow-up appointment after surgery as prescribed by your dentist or oral surgeon.

There is also the potential for a painful condition that usually begins 3 to 4 days following dental extraction of the lower wisdom teeth called dry socket. Call or stop by our office for evaluation, treatment and possible antibiotics prescription.

Tooth Extraction Care for Our Dental Patients

Tooth-Extraction-Care-Mesa-AZ

Because surgical wisdom tooth extraction may cause more discomfort than routine extractions, our oral surgeon provides specific written instruction for post-operative care of your mouth.

The instructions may vary depending on the severity of the tooth extraction, but these are general tooth extraction care tips:

  • Do not disturb the wound – chew on the opposite side
  • Do not smoke for at least 36 hours or as instructed by your surgeon
  • Control the bleeding with a pack made from sterile gauze pads
  • Report persistent bleeding to us
  • Control your pain with medication usually prescribed by your surgeon
  • Follow specific diet and nutrition recommendations prescribed by your surgeon
  • Encourage healing with gentle rinsing based on surgeon recommendations

Call Palmer Dental for a consultation and evaluation to determine if extraction dental services are the best option for you. 480-757-0882