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
Upon call to have a tooth extracted I received a appointment that week and a time that worked for me. I used the on line site to fill out the paper work so to speed up everything upon my arrival. The dr. and his assistant made me feel comfortable answered all my question and kept informed all through the procedure. After the procedure the assistant went over what I should expected and do now that the tooth was removed. I also received a hand out what she had gone over and said if I had any questions to call. The over all experience went smooth and the Dr. and staff were great.
- James L. s
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I would and will recommend you to anyone needing an oral surgeon.
- Karen H
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I was extremely happy with my experience in your office. Dr. SanGiacomo and his staff were excellent in terms of efficiency, courtesy and kindness. The procedure was flawless and pain free. I was expecting to awake the next day in pain, yet I was surprised to wake with little to no pain and no need to take any pain medication. Thank you all. Paul
- Paul S
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
It was a great experience! Nobody likes the dentist but this office really made it comfortable, easy, and fast! The doctor/dentist was GREAT!!
- Jaffa B
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
The visit was Great! When I called the day before and made appt. It was for 3:30 the next day and after filling out information on line for my appt. The receptionist called me back and was able to get me in that next morning at 8:30 instead! I was in alot of pain and my face was swellon. I was scared and the Dr was joking around with me and it helped me loosen up! Thank you for that!!
- Jennifer S
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I think I said it all love the quick service !!
- Howard C
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Doctor and staff was great
- Thoma T
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
It was recommended by my dentist to have one of my wisdom teeth removed to avoid complications in the future. They recommended Dr. SanGiacomo. After examination of my teeth, he carefully explained why there was no reason to remove two perfectly fine wisdom teeth at this time. I was very impressed by his professionalism and integrity (and at the same time very relieved).
- Anonymous
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
no problems, good at his job, laughed even... lol
- Meghan V
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
It was an awesome experience.
- Sheila G
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Fantastic service
- melvin b
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Very friendly staff and doctor that helped put me at ease and answered my questions .
- Anna F
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Scheduling was fast! The front office staff were very friendly. I did not have to wait! The dental assistant was so very nice and made me feel comfortable. Dr. SanGiacomo was welcoming and very friendly. This was probably the best visit to the dentist I have ever experienced! Thank you!
- Deb B
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Awesome services very caring
- Vi S
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
If you have to have a tooth extracted, this is a great place day to have it done - everyone was both professional and friendly and Dr. SanGiacomo’s skill and experience along with his ability to clearly explain the process gave me confidence that all would be well. Thank you!!!
- Kathleen G
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I was totally pleased. It is so good to be able to feel so confident in a medical professional.Keep it up!!!!!
- Antonia H
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I wrote a review. Debbie is wonderful and so efficient in making all the emergency arrangements. The Dentist was excellent!
- Robin G
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
The Doctor there is the best and the staff super nice and efficient. Dental visits involving a significant procedure have always made me uncomfortable to say the least. My first visit was several years ago and I was amazed how great the Doctor and staff was. On my second recent visit I was very comfortable going because I knew I was in the best hands for the procedure and again very impressed with their professional work.
- MIKE K
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Great experience! Friendly staff.
- Theresa E
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Not sure if my previous review was received so have done a second one. Walked in after being referred by my dentist to get information on tooth extraction. Worked out that they could take me in that afternoon. With less time to worry, all the staff were professional, courteous and very calming. The doctor walked me through the procedure to extract a tooth and put my nerves at ease. Would recommend them to anyone, very pleased. Thank you to all.
- Marlene R