Surgical Extractions
Surgical Tooth Removal at Newtown Dental

A surgical extraction involves removing a tooth that is not fully visible or accessible in the mouth. Unlike a standard extraction, which is performed on teeth that have already erupted, surgical extractions require an incision into the gum to access the tooth. This procedure is often necessary when teeth are impacted or broken below the gum line, or if the tooth has not fully emerged.

During a surgical extraction, your dentist may need to remove some bone or cut the tooth into smaller pieces to make the removal easier. This process is done under local anesthesia, and sedation options are available for added comfort.

Surgical extractions are typically recommended in more complex cases where a standard extraction is not possible. Some of the most common reasons for a surgical extraction include:

• Impacted Teeth
  Teeth that are stuck beneath the gum line, such as wisdom teeth, often require a surgical extraction to prevent pain, infection, and crowding of nearby teeth.
• Severely Broken or Fractured Teeth
  When a tooth is broken below the gum line or damaged in a way that makes it difficult to remove, surgery may be needed to access the tooth and remove it safely.
• Wisdom Teeth Removal
  Wisdom teeth often require surgical extraction due to their position in the jaw and the likelihood of them becoming impacted or causing other dental problems.
• Tooth Infections
  Teeth that are severely infected and cannot be treated with other procedures, such as root canals, may need to be surgically extracted to stop the infection from spreading.
• Preparation for Orthodontic Treatment
  In some cases, surgical extractions are necessary to make space for other teeth to align properly before starting orthodontic treatment like braces.

At Newtown Dental, we take every step to ensure that your surgical extraction is safe, comfortable, and stress-free. Here’s what you can expect during the procedure:

1. Consultation and X-Rays
   Your dentist will begin with a thorough examination and digital X-rays to assess the position of the tooth and determine the best approach for extraction.
2. Local Anesthesia and Sedation Options
   To ensure a pain-free experience, we will administer local anesthesia to numb the area around the tooth. If you are feeling anxious about the procedure, we also offer sedation options, including IV sedation and nitrous oxide, to help you relax.
3. Tooth Removal
   During the extraction, your dentist will make a small incision in the gum to access the tooth. In some cases, bone may be removed or the tooth may need to be sectioned (cut into smaller pieces) for easier removal.
4. Stitches
   After the tooth is removed, the area will be cleaned and stitched up to promote healing. You’ll receive detailed aftercare instructions to help you recover quickly and comfortably.

Recovering from a surgical extraction takes a bit more time compared to a standard extraction, but with proper care, healing should proceed smoothly. Here are some tips to help you recover:

• Follow Aftercare Instructions
  Our team will provide detailed aftercare guidelines to ensure a smooth recovery. These instructions will include how to care for the extraction site, manage any pain or swelling, and avoid complications like dry socket.
• Manage Pain and Swelling
  Over-the-counter pain medications and ice packs can help reduce swelling and discomfort in the first few days after surgery.
• Avoid Certain Activities
  For the first 24-48 hours, avoid drinking through straws, smoking, and eating hard or crunchy foods. These activities can dislodge the blood clot and delay healing.
• Stick to Soft Foods
  In the first few days after your surgery, stick to soft foods like yogurt, soup, and smoothies to avoid irritating the extraction site.
• Keep the Area Clean
  After the first 24 hours, gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water to keep the area clean. Be sure to follow any additional cleaning instructions from your dentist.