Tooth Extraction Roslyn Heights NY | Wisdom Teeth Removal

Tooth ExtractionsAn Overview

Tooth extraction may be recommended for various reasons related to the development or condition of your oral health. When teeth are overcrowded, tooth extraction may be necessary to create room for a more stable bite, sometimes prior to orthodontic treatment. If a tooth has become severely damaged or decayed and a root canal is not considered a viable option, Dr. Sousa or Dr. Ahdoot may recommend extracting and replacing a tooth in the best interest of your long-term oral health.

Dr. Sousa or Dr. Ahdoot can perform most tooth extractions in our office and offer sedation dentistry to meet your needs and ensure complete comfort during treatment. If the tooth needs to be replaced, he will work with you to choose a tooth replacement option and coordinate the phases of your dental care. Dr. Sousa and Dr. Ahdoot offer dental implants, dental bridges, and implant-secured dentures to replace lost teeth. Our office also provides additional general dentistry options to new and existing patients.

Tooth Extractions What to Expect

Dr. Sousa or Dr. Ahdoot will discuss all aspects of the tooth extraction and possible replacement options prior to your procedure. If sedation dentistry is to be used, we will educate you on what may be expected the day of your treatment in regards to assistance needed and recovery.

Tooth extraction is often a relatively simple procedure that is completed rather quickly. Once you are made comfortable with a local anesthetic or form of conscious sedation, Dr. Sousa or Dr. Ahdoot will carefully disconnect the tooth from its socket by severing the ligaments holding it into place. The next step is to gently move the tooth back and forth in the socket until it slowly comes free and is completely removed.

The area will be cleaned and gauze will be placed to secure the natural blood clot that forms in the empty socket. We will provide instructions for post-treatment care and follow up with you at home to be sure your recovery is going well. Most patients resume their normal daily routine the next day and can manage pain with an over-the-counter option.

If you experience sudden or sharp pain or resumed bleeding after your extraction, contact our office right away for advice on how to proceed. In some cases, the blood clot breaks free and a painful condition called “dry socket” can occur. This may require a brief visit to check the socket and replace the gauze.

Tooth Extractions FAQs

What should I not do after a tooth extraction?: A blood clot will form in the socket and must not be dislodged because it helps heal the wound. You should avoid rinsing vigorously or spitting for at least 24-48 after the extraction. Also, you will need to avoid sucking from a straw or sucking on anything. Most importantly, do not smoke! These things will cause the clot to dislodge.
What is a dry socket?: This is a painful condition that occurs when the blood clot is dislodged and the bone and nerves are exposed. To avoid it, you must closely follow the aftercare instructions we provide. Signs of dry socket include severe pain at the extraction site, being able to visibly see the bone, bad taste in your mouth, pain radiating from the wound, a foul smell coming from your mouth, or if you can simply feel the clot is missing. If you think you have a dry socket, contact our office as soon as possible for further instructions.
How should I replace the extracted tooth?: Dr. Sousa will recommend an implant-supported dental crown. This type of restoration is the next best thing to a natural tooth. The dental implant will replace the tooth at the root and this will prevent bone loss in the jaw in addition to supporting the dental crown.
Should I be sedated for tooth extraction?: Your comfort level and the complexity of the tooth extraction will determine if you should undergo sedation. Local anesthesia, which numbs the area, is usually enough for a simple extraction. However, you may benefit from sedation if the extraction is more complex (like an impacted wisdom tooth) or you feel anxious about dental procedures. This could range from nitrous oxide to help you relax to deeper sedation or general anesthesia for more extensive procedures. Discuss these options with your dentist or oral surgeon to make the best choice. Comfort and safety should always come first.
How long does it take to recover from a tooth extraction procedure?: Recovery time from a tooth extraction can vary, but most people start feeling better within a few days. The initial healing phase can typically take one to two weeks. Following your dentist’s aftercare instructions during this time is important to avoid complications like dry socket or infection. Complete healing, where the socket fully closes with bone, can take several weeks to a few months. Remember, every patient’s healing process is different. If your recovery time is a bit longer, that’s okay. Patience is key when it comes to healing!
Can I go to work after a tooth extraction?: It may be possible for you to go back to work after a simple tooth extraction. However, taking the rest of the work day off is usually a good idea. You might experience some discomfort, swelling, or bleeding. Your body needs to begin the healing process. You might need a few days off to recover for more complex extractions, like wisdom teeth. Every patient’s experience differs, so listen to your body and follow your dentist’s advice. Taking it easy after a tooth extraction is smart for your oral health.