Oral Surgery

Extraction: Impacted or exposed teeth can potentially cause infections and may need to be removed. Extractions can range from a single tooth, to removing all teeth at once. Based on the preference of Dr. Wilson and/or the patient, a local anesthetic will be used to numb the areas where the teeth will be extracted.The gum tissue around the tooth is cut open to reveal the bottom half of the tooth. The tooth is loosened by gripping it tightly and wiggling it back and forth until it can be lifted out of the gums. Sometimes a tooth may be impacted so tightly that it cannot be simply lifted out of the gums. In cases like this the tooth will be broken up into pieces first before being removed. Depending on the incision and extraction site, sutures may be needed to close the area. Soluble sutures are the best option, which will dissolve on their own.

Bone grafting: Bone grafting is a common procedure that is used frequently for dental implants and other periodontal procedures. The bone used to graft is either synthetic or cadaver bone fragments are also used. They are harvested by bone banks and are a very safe source for bone donation.

Post Op Instructions: After the surgery you will need to rest. You need to be driven home by a friend or family member because of the anesthesia. You can expect for the extraction site to bleed for a little while after the surgery. Gauze will be applied at the completion of the surgery, and you will need to change it when it becomes soaked. If bleeding continues for longer than 24 hours you should call our office. Rest when you return home, but do not lie flat. This could prolong the bleeding. Prop your head up on a pillow when lying down. Dr. Wilson will prescribe you pain medication, you should take this if you become sore. You can also use an ice pack for the pain. Our office might also provide you with a cleaning solution to clean the extraction site.

You will be limited to soft foods for a few days after your surgery. Some recommended foods are: gelatin, pudding, yogurt, mashed potatoes, ice cream, thin soups and any other food you can eat without chewing

When drinking, make sure you do not use a straw. The sucking motion can loosen your sutures and slow the clotting process. The same goes for smoking. If you have prolonged pain, bleeding, irritation, or don't feel that the extraction site is healing properly CALL US AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.


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