Tooth Extractions

Teeth may need to be removed for a number of different reasons: extensive decay, advanced periodontal (“gum”) disease, infection, or trauma. In most non-emergency situations involving one or several teeth, we will evaluate you and treat you at the same visit provided we use local anesthesia (“Novocaine”). Most patients are able to tolerate single tooth extractions very easily using local anesthesia alone, or local anesthesia in combination with nitrous oxide, also known as “laughing gas”. However, not all extractions are the same. Some “routine single tooth extractions” can be very difficult and traumatic for the patient and local anesthesia is not enough. That is why Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons are so highly trained in providing outpatient IV sedation and general anesthesia. Our goal is to provide you with the very best care possible in a safe, comfortable and pain free environment. We will carefully assess the surgery needed and make the appropriate anesthesia recommendation.

Your comfort is very important to us. If you prefer to be sedated (“go to sleep”) for your surgery, a separate preliminary consultation appointment is usually necessary, except in certain emergency situations.

If your medical history is complex and you are taking a number of prescribed medications, it may be necessary for us to discuss your oral surgery treatment with your physician before we can treat you. Please bring a list of all medications you are currently taking with you to your appointment.

If your dentist has recently taken x-rays which show all the teeth in question, please bring them with you to your appointment or verify that they have been sent and received. We frequently need to take a larger, more complete, x-ray called a panorex, which is designed to show the teeth, as well as important surrounding structures.

Most patients prefer not to return to work the day a tooth is extracted… usually because of minor post-extraction oozing and mild discomfort. We will provide you with post-operative instructions, extra gauze, and prescriptions if needed.

You can expect mild to moderate discomfort for a few days following an extraction. There may be some swelling or bruising over the extraction site. In general, most people begin to feel better after 2 to 3 days. Please remember that we are always available after your surgery in case you have any questions or concerns.