Tooth Extraction

Often, dental problems are exceptionally painful and can drastically impact your everyday life. Fortunately, those who suffer from dental pain can seek treatment from an experienced oral surgeon to relieve their suffering and protect their smiles. For many dental conditions, tooth extraction may be the most effective way to treat your pain and other symptoms. 

If you are suffering from tooth pain and believe you may require an extraction, do not hesitate to contact an experienced and skilled oral surgeon. At Union City Oral Surgery Group, we are dedicated to providing a patient-first approach to our care so we can prioritize your health and comfort. Our surgeon, Dr. Nancy Herbst, has more than 25 years of experience in using innovative technologies to provide her patients with exceptional care. 

There are times when it is necessary to remove a tooth. Sometimes a baby tooth has misshapen or long roots that prevent it from falling out as it should, and it must be removed to make way for the permanent tooth to erupt. Other times, a tooth may have so much decay that it puts the surrounding teeth and jaw at risk. When this occurs, we may recommend removal and replacement with a bridge or implant. Infection, orthodontic correction, or problems with a wisdom tooth can also require removal of a tooth.

The root of each tooth is encased within your jawbone in a “tooth socket” and is held in place by a ligament. In order to extract a tooth, Dr. Herbst must expand the socket and separate the tooth from the ligament that holds it in place. In some cases, a root is curved or very long, and the tooth socket cannot be widened enough to remove the tooth as a whole. In these situations, Dr. Herbst will section the tooth to remove it in pieces.

Signs You May Need a Tooth Extraction

If you believe your tooth may require extraction, it is always in your best interest to see an oral surgeon sooner rather than later. Leaving the tooth for too long may cause additional discomfort and health problems. A few signs you may require a tooth extraction include the following:

• Unexplained and persistent bad breath
• Sensitivity, bleeding, or swelling near the back of mouth or wisdom teeth
• Pain in your mouth, teeth, jaw, or neck
• Headaches that spread from your jaw
• Bleeding or inflamed gums
• Overcrowded teeth
• Broken or chipped teeth
• Loose teeth

If you are suffering from the symptoms above, do not hesitate to contact an experienced oral surgeon. Your surgeon will be able to accurately diagnose whether you require a tooth extraction as well as a treatment plan that fits your unique needs. 

What to Tell Your Surgeon Before Your Tooth Extraction

Prior to a tooth extraction, it is essential that your surgeon has an accurate understanding of your medical history. Be sure to inform them of all of your medications, treatments, and conditions before your initial x-ray. Some health conditions that are critical to disclose to your surgeon include the following:

• Congenital heart defects
• Liver disease
• Thyroid disease
• Diabetes
• Artificial joints
• Renal disease
• High blood pressure
• A compromised immune system
• Damage you your heart’s valves
• Adrenal disease
• Bacterial or fungal heart infections

Your surgeon will likely want to ensure your conditions are stable and being treated. They can use your medical history to determine the best path forward to extract your tooth safely.

What to Expect During and After Your Tooth Extraction

Though the extraction procedure is typically quick, it is important to share with our office any concerns or preferences regarding sedation. We generally utilize a local anesthetic for simple tooth extractions. During the extraction, you will not feel any pain, but you will feel pressure.

Once a tooth has been removed, you will need to place pressure on the area so a clot can form. After the clot has formed, do not rinse vigorously, suck on a straw, smoke, drink alcohol, or brush your teeth next to the extraction site for 72 hours. These actions could dislodge the clot and lead to excessive bleeding.

If you experience pain and swelling, apply an ice pack to the area and take pain medications as prescribed by our office. Any residual swelling and discomfort should disappear in a few days. If you are still experiencing pain and swelling after several days, contact our office as soon as possible. 

Make an Appointment With a Skilled Oral Surgeon Today

If you require a tooth extraction, you deserve to be treated by a medical professional with a high level of experience, skills, and compassion. At Union City Oral Surgery Group, we are committed to putting your health and comfort first to ensure you have the best experience possible under our care. Our surgeon, Dr. Nancy Herbst. Has over 25 years of experience in oral and maxillofacial surgery and is highly-qualified to handle your tooth extraction with care and expertise. She employs the latest technology to effectively diagnose and treat patients with many pain-free procedures. 

To schedule an appointment and learn more about how she can help you, call our office at (201) 601-9262 or complete our contact form today.