Expert Tooth Extraction & Wisdom Teeth Services by Dr. Grivas
Tooth removal can be a daunting experience, especially when it comes to wisdom teeth removal. However, with the right dentist, the procedure can be quick, painless, and lead to a healthier smile. Sacramento, CA, dentist Dr. A. Scott Grivas III provides top-notch tooth removal and wisdom teeth services. Whether you’re looking to remove a damaged tooth or have your wisdom teeth removed, Dr. Grivas and his team have got you covered.
What is Tooth Extraction?
Tooth extraction, also known as tooth removal, is a dental procedure in which a damaged, decayed, or problematic tooth is removed from its socket in the jawbone.
Tooth removal may be necessary for several reasons, including:
- Severe tooth decay or damage that cannot be repaired
- Gum disease or infection
- Crowding or misalignment of teeth
- Impacted wisdom teeth
- Preparing for orthodontic treatment
Benefits of Tooth Extraction & Wisdom Teeth Services
Tooth removal can provide several benefits for patients. Here are a few examples:
- Pain Relief: Tooth removal can alleviate pain and discomfort caused by damaged, infected, or impacted teeth.
- Prevention of Complications: Removing a tooth can prevent further complications such as infection, abscesses, and periodontal disease.
- Improved Oral Health: Tooth removal can also improve oral health by eliminating sources of infection or decay that can spread to other teeth.
- Improved Alignment: In some cases, removing a tooth can improve the alignment of the remaining teeth and alleviate overcrowding.
- Preparation for Orthodontic Treatment: Tooth removal may be necessary before orthodontic treatment to create space for teeth to shift into their proper positions.
It’s important to note that tooth removal is a serious procedure and should only be considered when necessary. Your dentist can help you weigh the potential benefits and risks of tooth removal and determine if it’s the right solution for your situation.
Types of Tooth Extraction
There are two kinds of tooth extraction: surgical and non-surgical tooth extraction.
Non-Surgical Extractions
Non-surgical extractions, also known as simple extractions, are typically performed on visible teeth that can be easily accessed with forceps. This may be the case for teeth that have fully erupted or are only partially impacted.
During a non-surgical extraction, Dr. Grivas will use forceps to loosen the tooth from its socket and remove it. This procedure is also performed under local anesthesia or IV sedation to ensure patient comfort.
Surgical Extractions
A surgical extraction is a more complex procedure performed when a tooth cannot be easily accessed or removed with forceps. This may be the case with impacted wisdom teeth or teeth that have not fully erupted.
During a surgical extraction, Dr. Grivas will make a small incision in the gum tissue to access the tooth and remove it. In some cases, it may be necessary to remove a portion of the surrounding bone to fully extract the tooth.
Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last teeth to erupt in the mouth, usually appearing between the ages of 17 and 25. Most people have four wisdom teeth, but some may have fewer or none at all.
While wisdom teeth can be beneficial for chewing and biting, they often cause problems due to their location at the back of the mouth. Some of the common problems caused by wisdom teeth include the following:
- Crowding: When there’s not enough space for your teeth, they compete for space and cause alignment issues. Wisdom teeth can lead to crowding, which may alter your smile and potentially undo past orthodontic treatment. It can also cause crossbite, jaw pain, and infection.
- Impaction: When teeth don’t have enough room to fully erupt, they may erupt only partially or not at all. Impacted teeth are more susceptible to tooth infection, decay, and gum disease.
- Jawbone Damage: Cysts can develop at the roots of wisdom teeth and other impacted or crowded teeth. Even non-infected cysts can lead to the breakdown and loss of bone density, a phenomenon called resorption.
- Sinus Issues: Growing or infected wisdom teeth can put excessive pressure on your sinuses, causing pain, discomfort, and difficulty breathing.
The Tooth Extraction Process
Initial Consultation
Before removing any teeth, you’ll have an initial consultation with Dr. Grivas at our Sacramento, CA office. During this consultation, Dr. Grivas will examine your mouth thoroughly to evaluate your oral health and determine the state of the teeth that need to be removed.
Dr. Grivas will also review your medical history to ensure the procedure will be safe and beneficial for you. If you experience dental anxiety, let Dr. Grivas know. We offer sedation dentistry options that can help you stay relaxed during the procedure, and Dr. Grivas can evaluate your candidacy for sedation during the consultation. Once you and Dr. Grivas have decided that tooth removal is the best solution, we’ll schedule your next appointment.
Preparation
Before the procedure, we’ll clean your mouth thoroughly to clear it of debris. Then, we’ll apply a local anesthetic to numb the area around the tooth. We’ll ensure that your anesthetic and any sedation you may have chosen are working properly before proceeding.
Extraction
When performing a non-surgical extraction of a regular tooth, Dr. Grivas will use specific dental instruments to carefully loosen the tooth from the socket. He’ll apply gentle force and leverage to dislodge the tooth without causing any damage to the surrounding tissues. Once the tooth is loose, he’ll use forceps to remove it entirely from the socket.
However, in cases where the tooth is impacted, severely damaged, or has curved roots, a surgical extraction may be necessary. Dr. Grivas will make a small incision in the gum to expose the tooth and any bone covering it. He may also need to remove connective tissue and use a drill to separate the tooth from the surrounding bone. Once the tooth is entirely detached, he’ll remove it with forceps. Dr. Grivas may stitch the gum tissue following the extraction to promote healing.
Aftercare
After your teeth are extracted, you’ll receive specific instructions to follow to ensure a smooth and comfortable recovery process. It’s important to follow these instructions carefully to prevent complications such as infection or dry socket.
Some common aftercare instructions include:
- Bite Down on Gauze to Control Bleeding: Your dentist will provide you with gauze pads to bite to control bleeding. Keep the gauze in place for the recommended time and change it as needed.
- Apply ice: Applying ice to your cheeks can help reduce swelling and discomfort.
- Take Pain Medication as Prescribed: Your dentist may prescribe pain medication to help manage any discomfort you may experience. Be sure to follow the dosage instructions carefully.
- Avoid Smoking and Drinking Through a Straw: Smoking and drinking through a straw can dislodge the blood clot that forms in the socket, leading to dry socket.
- Stick to Soft Foods: Stick to soft foods such as mashed potatoes, soup, and yogurt for the first few days after your procedure.
- Brush and Floss Gently: You can continue to brush and floss your teeth as usual, but be sure to do so gently around the extraction site.
Recovery time varies from person to person, but most patients can expect to return to their normal activities within a week or so after the procedure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Dry socket occurs when the blood clot that forms in the extraction site is dislodged, exposing the underlying bone and nerves. You can prevent it by avoiding smoking, drinking through a straw, and vigorous rinsing for the first few days after an extraction.
Yes, getting your wisdom teeth removed should not affect your ability to get braces. In fact, it can make orthodontic treatment easier by reducing crowding and creating more space for your teeth to move.
It can take a few days to a few weeks to fully recover, depending on the complexity of the extraction and how well you take care of the extraction site. Most people can resume normal activities within a few days.
Most people can return to work or school within a day or two after a tooth extraction, but it’s best to rest for the first day and avoid strenuous activity for a few days. However, the recovery time can vary depending on the complexity of the extraction and your body’s healing ability. It’s important to follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth and speedy recovery.
Call Us & Experience Lasting Relief From Tooth Pain With Tooth Extraction
Tooth removal and wisdom teeth extraction are standard dental procedures that can effectively relieve pain and prevent further complications in the mouth. Dr. Grivas and his team have extensive experience in providing these services to patients in Sacramento, CA, and the surrounding regions such as Florin, Rosemont, and La Riviera, CA.
If you are experiencing any discomfort or pain in your mouth, it is crucial to schedule a consultation with Dr. Grivas by dialing (916) 929-9222. You can also request an appointment online by filling out the contact form at the bottom of the page and one of our friendly team members will get back to you shortly.
