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
The service was great and getting my tooth pulled was totally painless. Even the next day I have had minimal pain.
- Jessica S
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Great service. Everyone there was very nice and made me feel at ease.
- Scott T
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Overall great experience. Especially grateful that I was able to get an appointment so quickly, as I was in significant pain. My own dentist wouldn't even find the time to squeeze me in just to take a look at my issue. COS got me in DAYS after initial contact. Surgery went well and I feel great now!
- Christopher M
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Had an appointment later in the month, called to schedule one earlier because of infection and they got me right in,very impressed 🙂
- Keith R
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Very positive experiences each time I've been there...not looking forward to frequent visits in the future though. My only problem is the parking and entrance situation...not always easy to get INTO the office.
- Lolita W
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
The staff was very friendly. They all did a good job and it felt like everything was done quick.
- Rikki S
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Good visit. Would use again.
- Michael W
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Was so afraid of the Tooth Extraction, but all went well!!!
- linda s
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I've had several procedures at this office. I quite often leave there a little numb in spots but overall I am VERY satisfied with the level of care, courtesy and competence that I have been treated with every time. I wholeheartedly recommend this office and its staff.
- tad m
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I was nervous to go as I had teeth to be extracted but the doctor and staff put me right at ease. I would highly recommend them to anyone.
- Deborah V
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I was very nervous about getting an implant! The procedure was amazingly simple, and painless! The doctor and the staff, were very caring, and went out of their way to make me feel very comfortable! Would definitely go here....& do this again !!!
- Judy J
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Very awesome experience
- Steve S
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Everyone was great! Procedures went well. Hope I would not have to return(LOL!!) but if the need arose I would definitely return to Cortland Oral Surgery!!
- Joanne M
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Yesterday morning i went in for my wisdom teeth extractions and the staff and doctor were so great. They saw how nervous i was, especially about the IV and going under anesthesia they did a great job getting the IV in the first time, i have no bruising on my arm at all. My mouth is a little sore and swollen on the bottom left side but other than being sleepy, i feel great. Thank you so much for taking care of me!
- Toria S
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Professional, informative, made me relax and have very reasonable rates.
- Cassandra R
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Very satisfied.
- Anne H
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I was extremely scared and would have given anything to my husband to let me cancel my appointment! Never had a tooth extracted and am 41 yrs old with only two cleanings in my life, zero cavities I may add! It is the sound of things that make me cringe, not needles like the normal people! I must say my experience yesterday was fantastic and I will never fear coming there again! Ok maybe a little for my impacted wisdom teeth but I will go to sleep for that You are all amazing and made me feel comfortable and eased my anxiety!!!!
- Stacey F
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Probably one of the best dental experience I've had. Got me right in for an emergency tooth extraction. Hardly any pain. And the after care booklet was great.
- Heather P
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Dr was so awesome and trying to get my daughter to laugh and relax before doing the iv, everything went great.
- Katherine M
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
The Dr. and staff are very caring and skilled. They made my experience very pleasant! I would most definitely return if needed and certainly highly recommend them!!
- Eva C