Tooth Extractions IN ANCHORAGE AK
Accepting new patients in EAGLE RIVER & WASILLA
You and Dr. Szutz 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, Dr. Szutz will discuss alternatives to extractions as well as replacement of the extracted tooth.
Do You Need More Information Tooth Extractions?. Call Alaska Oral Surgery Group Office Phone Number 907-278-5678 For Consultation Today
What happens during The Tooth Extraction Process?
At the time of extraction, the doctor will need to numb your tooth, jawbone, 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.
What is Sectioning a Tooth Procedure?
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.
What Happens 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 30-60 minutes immediately after the appointment. If the bleeding or oozing still persists, place another gauze pad and bite firmly for another 30-60 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. 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 starts to reduce after 48-72 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 normal foods after about 5-7 days.
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 more then 4-5 days, or a reaction to the medication, call our office immediately.
Tooth Extraction Frequently Asked Questions
Why are teeth removed?
It is always our first priority to save your natural teeth if ever possible. There are times, however, when teeth become too decayed or damaged, and extraction is necessary. Thanks to the latest technology, our cutting-edge techniques, and sedation options, we provide safe, comfortable, and quick extractions right here in our office.
The following factors could lead to a necessary extraction:
• Impacted Teeth
• Severe Decay
• Fractures
• Orthodontics
• Periodontal Disease
How to Prepare for a Tooth Extraction
You’ll want to get a few things in order before your extraction to ensure a smooth, safe recovery.
Begin by providing us with your complete medical history, so that we can avoid any complications pertaining to health issues and medications.
Stock up on liquid and soft foods that are not too hot or too cold to have on hand as your rest and recover. Your gums will be sensitive, but it’s important you make sure to eat.
Line up transportation home from your appointment if you plan on sedation. You won’t be able to drive after having sedation.
Plan to relax after the extraction and follow all of the post-op instructions we send home with you.
What is the procedure for a tooth extraction?
The process of tooth extraction includes local anesthesia so that you don’t feel any pain. And we may administer additional anesthesia as needed to keep you comfortable throughout the surgery. The procedure itself typically takes less than an hour. As it is a very routine treatment that we do in our office nearly every day.
Again, saving your natural teeth is always our preference. They play a significant role in the health of your jawbone, which requires regular stimulation to maintain bone structure. A missing tooth can quickly lead to jawbone loss.
If we discover that your jaw has lost bone mass, we may recommend a special grafting procedure at the same time as your extraction to prevent further jawbone loss and provide favorable conditions for an implant down the road.
What are the risks of a tooth extraction?
Dry socket is a common complication, and this is something you can prevent. Dry socket results when the blot clot that forms over the surgical wound becomes dislodged. That blood clot is necessary for protection and proper healing, but if it gets knocked loose, the pain can be excruciating. Refrain from using a straw and from smoking to minimize the risk of dry socket.
Other possible (but rare) risks of tooth extraction include damage to the jaw, nerves, sinus cavities, or nearby teeth and dental prothesis, infection, and prolonged pain or stiffness of the jaw.
What is the recovery period from a tooth extraction?
There are some key items to keep in mind as you recover. As mentioned above, it’s crucial to form a blood clot in the wound area following surgery. Gently bite down on a gauze pad for about an hour to allow the blood clot to settle in and begin healing. Do not use straws or tobacco products for a week following surgery, as this could dislodge the clot, resulting in a very painful condition called dry socket.
As the anesthesia wears off, manage any soreness or discomfort with over-the-counter pain medications, such as Ibuprofen. We will discuss with you any necessary prescription medicines prior to your surgery. We will give you specific tooth extraction home care instructions prior to surgery and will be happy to answer any additional questions you have.
How much does a tooth extraction cost?
As is the case with many procedures, the cost of extractions depends on a variety of details pertaining to your case. We would be happy to discuss with you your health insurance and the benefits it provides. We want to make every effort to ensure you get the care you deserve.