Extractions
You and Dr. Abt 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. Abt will discuss alternatives to extractions as well as replacement of the extracted tooth.
The Extraction Process
At the time of extraction the doctor will need to numb your tooth, jaw bone 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.
Sectioning a tooth
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.
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 30-45 minutes immediately after the appointment. If the bleeding or oozing still persists, place another gauze pad and bite firmly for another 30 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 or brush teeth next to the extraction site for 72 hours. 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 subsides after 48 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 eat normally as soon as you are comfortable.
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 2-3 days, or a reaction to the medication, call our office immediately.
Oral & Facial Surgery Center of Prescott
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- Mary J
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I am new to Prescott and almost immediately upon arriving a 40 yr old root canal/crown sheared off at the gum requiring a tooth extraction and bone graft. Dr Benjamin Abt was fantastic, and is a superbly skilled oral surgeon. I was given all the required information during my first visit of a consultation, including many options available before settling on an implant requiring a tooth extraction and bone graft. I am 64 yrs old and this is the only dental procedure I have ever had where the initial injections to freeze were not painful. Dr Abt made sure I was totally comfortable with everything and continuously checked that I was OK during the procedure --- he also advised me ahead of time what he was about to do and what to expect. I had my tooth extraction and bone graft on February 26 in the morning and Dr Abt called at 3:30 pm to check on how I was doing. My next appointment is June 1 and I am looking forward to it! I am extremely happy to have found Dr Abt and highly recommend him for any oral surgery needs.
- Judy P
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I would highly recommend anyone
- Brian Drum D
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Thank you Dr Abt and surgery staff. M extraction went smoothly and painlessly you are most professional and skilled
- Linda N
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Excellent experience. I had great confidence in Dr. Abt who treated me. He was informative throughout my procedure keeping me updated on what he was doing. I like that. His staff were friendly, knowledgeable and helpful. Thank you.
- roy s
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Very surprised with recent appointment/dental work. Almost too good to be true. Everything went according to schedule and plan. Painless. Nothing but first class all the way around. Thank you!
- Jan F
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Top notch facility and staff. Would highly recommend to anyone.
- Mike H
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
This was the best experience I've ever had with a tooth extraction! I was referred by Dr. Edwards and was granted an immediate appt. Everything from check in (online option) to final instructions was clear, easy and straightforward. The entire staff was professional, friendly, knowledgeable, and compassionate without being patronizing. The facility was very clean, calm and inviting. I was very impressed with time both the front office and Dr. Abt took to review my medical history with me. The procedure itself was surprisingly brief and each step was explained to me in detail as I opted for local anesthesia (they do offer sedation). I was sent home with the least amount of mouth discomfort I've ever experienced after having a tooth pulled and went to work the next day. Dr. Abt even called me that afternoon to check on me! Highest marks to Dr. Abt and his staff!
- Karin M
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Very happy with everyone! love to visit and so convenient.
- shirley E
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Congratulations on your new office building and location. Very clean and well lite. Dr. Abt will be my go to oral surgery doctor.
- David B