Surgical removal of teeth by an oral surgeon may be necessary for a number of reasons
Saving a tooth from extraction is always your dentist’s first priority. Unfortunately, in some circumstances saving a tooth may not be the best and most effective option. Although removing a tooth may seem like quite a simple procedure, sometimes extraction can be more complicated than trying to save the tooth. For this reason, the help of an experienced oral surgeon may be necessary.
Reasons for surgical tooth removal
The most common reasons for a tooth needing to be surgically removed is because of disease, decay, trauma, crowding or if the tooth is impacted.
In many cases, every attempt to save the tooth from extraction will be made. However, in cases where the condition of the tooth is too severe or the location of the tooth requires complex treatment, surgical removal may be the most effective option. After receiving an X-Ray and once your dentist has examined the area, they will be able to determine whether a dentist can remove the tooth through simple extraction or if the tooth requires surgical removal by a surgeon.
Sometimes when a tooth breaks during simple extraction, or if there are complications during the simple extraction procedure, the patient may need to be referred for surgical extraction at OMFS.
The surgical tooth removal procedure
Just like all forms of surgery, it is important that you are in good general health and that no existing conditions are going to affect your surgery or post-op recovery. Your OMFS surgeon will discuss the procedure with you, and review your general and oral health history. You will also discuss any specific medications you are taking and considerations will be made for patients who are feeling anxious or experience dental fear.
Surgical tooth removal involves an incision being made in the gum and can involve the removal of bone around the tooth in order to provide better access. Often the tooth will need to be sectioned to reduce damage to the adjacent tissue and conserve bone removal. Once the tooth has been sectioned, the tooth is elevated and extracted. Your surgeon will thoroughly inspect the site to ensure that there are no fragments of bone left behind. Sharp bone edges will be smoothened to ensure there is no discomfort or complications during and after recovery.
Following extraction, the incision will be stitched in order for the site to heal effectively.
Surgical tooth removal recovery
All patients are different and as such, all cases are unique, so the most important thing to remember after your surgery is to closely follow the post-op instructions of your surgeon.
Immediately after surgery, you will be instructed to bite down on a gauze pad to help reduce bleeding. Avoiding speaking, chewing and drinking during the first two hours after surgery is also advised in order to prevent your stitches from being aggravated. Room temperature water or cold liquids can be consumed once bleeding has subsided.
Avoid brushing your teeth for 12 hours and when you do begin brushing, avoid the extraction area. Your surgeon will let you know when it’s safe to begin brushing the extraction area. During this time, you can rinse the area with a diluted solution of room temperature water and salt.
If bleeding persists, speak with your surgeon immediately.
Surgical tooth removal at OMFS
The experienced Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons team pride themselves on ensuring the very best care for patients, complemented by exceptional service.
If you have been referred for surgical tooth removal, fill out our patient registration form here!
FAQs
Common reasons for the surgical removal of a tooth include trauma, gum disease, decay and crowding. Also, if a tooth becomes impacted, it may need to be extracted.
You will receive an x-ray, and your surgeon will thoroughly examine the area to determine whether your tooth can be removed by means of a simple extraction, or if a surgical removal is required. Your surgeon will explain the treatment plan to you before you undergo the procedure.
During the procedure, an incision is made in the gum. Sometimes, bone is removed from around the tooth to allow better access. In some cases, the tooth will be sectioned into smaller pieces in order to remove it. When the tooth has been sectioned, it is elevated and extracted. Any sharp bone edges will be smoothed and the incision will be stitched closed.
Once your tooth extraction surgery is complete, you will need to stick to liquids and soft foods for a few days while your mouth heals.
Some good options include cold or lukewarm broths and soups — make sure they are packed with nutrients and as smooth as possible; smoothies made with natural yoghurt and fresh fruits; and soft scrambled eggs.
It is best to avoid spicy and acidic foods during your recovery period, as these can irritate the site of surgery, as well as crunchy foods that require too much chewing.