218 Wall St, Powdersville, SC 29673

Tooth Extractions

Extractions: Gentle Relief for Problem Teeth

What Are Extractions?

Extractions involve removing teeth that are too damaged, decayed, or problematic to save, such as impacted wisdom teeth. This relieves pain, prevents complications like infection or crowding, and protects your oral health.

Why It Matters

A tooth beyond repair can cause persistent pain, spread infection, or damage nearby teeth and gums. Extracting it stops these issues, creating a healthier mouth and sometimes preparing the way for treatments like braces or implants. Our gentle approach minimizes discomfort and promotes quick healing.

When Might You Need It?

You may need an extraction if:

  • A tooth is severely decayed or infected, causing pain or sensitivity that can’t be fixed with fillings or root canals.
  • Wisdom teeth are impacted (trapped beneath gums or angled), leading to swelling, infection, or crowding.
  • A tooth is damaged by trauma and can’t be restored.
  • You need space for orthodontic treatment (e.g., Invisalign) or to remove teeth at risk of cysts or tumors.
  • You experience jaw pain or difficulty cleaning partially erupted teeth, increasing decay risk.
  • What to Expect

    The extraction process is tailored to your comfort:
  • Consultation: Dr. Patel assesses the tooth’s position and condition, discussing anesthesia and sedation options.
  • Simple Extraction: For fully erupted teeth, we numb the area with local anesthesia and gently remove the tooth with forceps in 30-60 minutes.
  • Surgical Extraction: For impacted or broken teeth, we make a small incision, possibly remove bone, and section the tooth if needed, using local anesthesia and optional sedation (e.g., nitrous oxide). This takes 45-60 minutes per tooth.
  • Aftercare: We may use dissolvable stitches and gauze to control bleeding, providing detailed instructions on diet, hygiene, and pain management.
  • We’ll keep you informed and relaxed throughout the procedure.

    Recovery Tips

    Recovery typically takes 1-2 weeks, with these tips:
  • Swelling and Pain: Peaks in 48-72 hours; use ice packs (15 minutes on/off) for 24 hours, then warm compresses. Take prescribed or over-the-counter pain relievers (e.g., ibuprofen).
  • Diet: Eat soft foods (e.g., smoothies, yogurt, applesauce) for at least a week, avoiding spicy, crunchy, or hot foods that irritate the socket.
  • Precautions: Avoid smoking, using straws, or vigorous rinsing for 72 hours to prevent dry socket, a painful condition where the blood clot dislodges
  • Hygiene: After 24 hours, rinse gently with saltwater to keep the area clean. Brush carefully, avoiding the extraction site.
  • Healing: Stitches dissolve in 7-14 days; the socket heals over 4-6 weeks
  • Warning Signs: Contact us if severe pain, swelling, fever, or pus occurs after a few days, as it may indicate infection or dry socket.
  • We’ll check in to ensure you’re healing well and feeling comfortable.