Extractions
You and Dr. SanGiacomo 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. SanGiacomo 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.
Cortland Oral Surgery
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
We had an excellent experience from start to finish for my daughter’s wisdom teeth extraction. The front office staff was exceptionally helpful with insurance questions and general questions about the procedure. The medical staff (doctor and nurses) were excellent. They also give you a booklet spelling out exactly what you need to do for follow-up care. I couldn’t have been happier with how things went.
- Sue S
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Had an appointment scheduled the week prior but came down with a severe cold. Was given the option of keeping the appointment or rescheduling for less than a week later, which I did. The procedure went very smoothly which led to a very easy recovery.
- Karen C
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I’ve had 2 teeth pulled by this Doctor and he’s done a great job both times. Everyone is nice.
- Cindy W
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
excellent, thoroughly professional in every way, I have highly recommended
- abby n
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
The staff was very nice, and the doctor was fantastic. He's also very funny, which put me at ease. Highly recommended!
- Thuy L
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
The doctor was timely and has a good sense of humor. Would recommend the doctor.
- Paige E
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
The entire office was very friendly and put my son at ease during his wisdom tooth extractions.
- Wendy S
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
The procedure was carried out with efficiency, care for my comfort and disclosure of follow-up options. The paperwork for after-care was comprehensive. So far so good on recovery. As pleasant an experience as can be expected for a tooth extraction.
- Ed B
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Our son was referred to Cortland Oral Surgery as a less expensive alternative to a local oral surgeon for removal of all four wisdom teeth. The price was about half what we were quoted by the other O.S., but the quality of care was not lacking at all. At his initial appointment, actual surgery day and follow appointment he was seen promptly, the staff is exceptionally friendly and helpful. There wasn't a single issue or problem after our son had his teeth pulled. I would highly recommend this practice to anyone needing specialized dental care.
- Jen D
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Excellent place. Everything was pleasant.
- Harold H
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Very professional, efficient and personal.
- Sharon M
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Everything went better than expected!
- Pauline P
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Great!
- Michelle B
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I was so nervous when I got there. But as soon as I was called to the room and talked to the assistant and doctor I knew it would be fine
- Mike R
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Everyone was very kind and the Doctor’s sense of humor helped me through a stressful situation.
- Gretchen G
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I had and excellent experience. I was not looking forward to having a tooth pulled. I was anxious. But during the whole procedure it wasn’t as bad as I thought. I loved Dr. Sangiacomo and his technique, and professionalism, and he had a nice way of talking to me to make me feel less anxious. Once it was over, I was like, your finished! A much better experience than any other teeth I had extracted in my lifetime.
- Constance A
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I’m not a fan of oral surgery at all! I actually passed out after I left! However, the staff & doctor were friendly & did a great job! I would definitely recommend this office if you’re in need of oral surgery!
- Angie P
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
This is a very efficient group of professionals. They clearly explained the procedure and did everything they could to make me as comfortable as possible. I am very impressed.
- Hal F
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I was scared to be going in to get my wisdom teeth out without getting any anesthesia. The assistant talked me and eased my mind before the first shot of novacane. It only took about an hour to have all 4 wisdom teeth removed. All I felt was pressure. No pain at all during the procedure. Highly recommend to anyone who meeds work done on their teeth.
- Caytlyn B
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Wonderful experience all around. Doctor and staff are top notch! Thank you
- Julia T