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

5 out of 5 stars based on 527 reviews.

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

I love it, the staff was very friendly and I had no wait time.

- Nichole W

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

COULDN'T BE HAPPIER THE HOLE THING WAS 30 TO 35 MINUTES AND DONE

- DAVID S

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Everyone was very kind and friendly and you immediately relaxed and felt very comfortable. The Doctor and support help were exceptional and I was very comfortable during the procedure. He was very informative about what was happening and thorough in explaining everything during and also what was to be done after you left the office.

- Donna F

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Great doctor and staff

- maria g c

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Dr and staff were very professional and pleasant. I would definately use this office again.

- Debbie B

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

would return with no hesitation.

- Edward E

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Staff was very attentive and Dr. SanGiacomo explained all procedures and options and took great care with the work being performed. Highly recommended.

- David C

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Everything about working with this practice has exceeded my expectations. I could not ask for a friendlier or more competent staff, and Dr SanGiacomo has been efficient, thorough, relaxed and friendly throughout. He has also made a point of explaining everything in clear language and making sure I understand the whole procedure. I could not recommend him more highly.

- Tom B

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

The above pretty much sums it up. And see you next Tuesday.

- Peter R

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

More than what I expected. Totally worth the time and very pleased. I was comfortable with everything going on during my visit. Thank you!

- Carla M

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

The entire staff were very professional and took the time to complete the extraction that was a bit of a challenging. Totally pain free! I would highly recommend.

- William W

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

good experience

- Blaine K

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Had both tooth extraction and bone grafting done. excellent skill and care…

- Deb P

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

I would come back here if I ever needed anymore tooth removal.

- Jason T

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

The staff at Cortland Oral Surgery made my first, and hopefully last, tooth extraction as comfortable as it could be. Easily the most pleasant dental experience I’ve had. Aftercare instructions were detailed and well explained. Highly recommend!

- Sherone S

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Both of my children had their wisdom teeth removed here. The entire staff made this process as smooth as possible. Everyone was very helpful and informative.

- Erin M

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

If there comes a time that I need an oral surgeon, I am coming here

- Gregory M

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Could not be happier; excellent in every way

- Sergei N

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Top notch doc and staff

- John K

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Smooth appointment, great service . Procedure was done well.

- H Paul S

5 out of 5 stars on