Surgical Extraction in Portland, OR

Surgical extraction is a dental procedure that involves the removal of a tooth through surgical means. It is typically performed when a tooth cannot be easily extracted using traditional methods such as simple forceps extraction.

There are several reasons why a surgical extraction may be necessary. One common reason is when a tooth is severely decayed or damaged beyond repair and cannot be saved with other treatments like root canal therapy. In some cases, impacted wisdom teeth may also require surgical extraction.

The Different Types of Surgical Extractions

Different types of surgical extractions may be performed based on the specific condition and complexity of the tooth extraction procedure. Some common ones are:

1. Impacted Tooth Extraction:

An impacted tooth occurs when it fails to emerge properly through the gums, often due to a lack of space in the jaw or an abnormal eruption angle. In this case, the dentist may need to make an incision into the gum tissue and possibly remove the bone surrounding the impacted tooth before extracting it.

2. Wisdom Tooth Extraction:

Wisdom teeth are commonly extracted because they can cause pain, crowding, infection, or other dental problems. If wisdom teeth are fully erupted, a simple surgical extraction may be sufficient; however, if they are impacted or partially erupted, more complex techniques may be required.

The Procedure of a Surgical Extraction

During a surgical extraction, the dentist will begin by administering local anesthesia to numb the area. This ensures that you won't feel any pain during the procedure. In some cases, general anesthesia may be used if multiple teeth need to be extracted or if the patient has severe dental anxiety. 

Once you are fully numb, the dentist will make an incision in your gum tissue to access the tooth and surrounding bone. They may also need to remove any obstructing tissue or bone that is preventing easy access to the tooth. Using specialized instruments, such as forceps or elevators, they will carefully loosen and remove the tooth from its socket. In some instances, when a tooth is impacted or severely damaged, it may need to be sectioned into smaller pieces for easier removal. This technique reduces trauma and minimizes discomfort during extraction. After removing the tooth, our dentist will clean out any debris from the socket and suture it closed if necessary. They may place gauze over the extraction site to help control bleeding and promote blood clot formation.

Our dentist will provide instructions on how to care for your mouth after surgery and prescribe appropriate pain medications if needed. It's important to follow these instructions closely for optimal healing.

Recovery and Aftercare Tips

Recovery and aftercare are crucial aspects of a surgical extraction procedure. While the actual surgery may be over, it's essential to take care of yourself during the healing process. 

• Pain and swelling are common after a surgical extraction. To alleviate discomfort, your doctor may prescribe pain medication or recommend over-the-counter options. Applying an ice pack gently can also help reduce swelling in the first 24 hours.
• Proper oral hygiene is vital during recovery. However, you should avoid brushing or rinsing around the extraction site for at least 24 hours following the procedure. After this initial period, gently rinse your mouth with warm saltwater several times a day to keep the area clean.
• It's crucial not to disturb any blood clots that form in the socket as they aid in healing. Avoid using straws, smoking, spitting forcefully, or consuming hot liquids for at least 24 hours post-surgery. These actions can dislodge blood clots and lead to a painful condition called dry socket.
• During recovery, sticking to soft foods that don't require much chewing is recommended for about a week following surgery. Opt for items such as soups, mashed potatoes, yogurt, smoothies, and scrambled eggs until you feel comfortable eating regular foods again.
• Allow yourself time to recover fully by avoiding strenuous activities immediately after surgery. Take it easy for a few days and give your body ample time to heal properly.

Remember that everyone heals differently; some individuals may experience faster recovery than others due to various factors such as age and overall health conditions. If you have any concerns during your recovery period or notice signs of infection like severe pain or excessive bleeding from the extraction site – contact our dentist promptly.

To learn more about our surgical extraction, visit our dentist, Dr. Little, at 4455 Sw Scholls Ferry Rd Suite 101, Portland, Oregon, 97225. You can also reach Dentist Portland, OR, at (503) 291-0000 or (503) 292-6677 to schedule an appointment.