Board Certified Periodontist, Dr. Scott O. Kissel

A Patient’s Guide to Surgical Tooth Extraction

If a dentist has recommended surgical tooth extraction, you may be wondering about the procedure, how it works, and the aftercare procedure. Although many people are nervous going into their extraction, Dr. Scott Kissel at NYC Periodontics and Implant Dentistry provides surgical tooth extractions using dental microsurgery. This advanced technique reduces trauma to the gums for faster healing and less pain than traditional tooth extractions


To schedule an appointment with our dentist in Midtown Manhattan, contact our dental office today at 212-702-9088.

What Is Surgical Tooth Extraction?

Surgical tooth extraction is a routine dental procedure involving the removal of a tooth from its socket in the jawbone. This type of extraction is typically necessary when a tooth can’t be easily removed with forceps, such as when it’s impacted, broken, or has extensive decay. For example, wisdom teeth removal is often a surgical extraction procedure. The procedure is usually performed with the patient under general anesthesia or local anesthetic and often takes just one visit to our NYC dentist. 

 

Dr. Kissel supports tooth extraction patients with an advanced microsurgical approach. His innovative methods include increased magnification, illumination, smaller instruments, and Piezosurgery technology, which avoids trauma to hard tissue while leaving soft tissue untouched. He can also reshape the tooth root and remove it with less trauma resulting in little pain and swelling.

Why Dentists Recommend Surgical Tooth Extraction

There are several reasons why you might need a surgical tooth extraction. The most common is an impacted tooth, meaning it’s stuck beneath the gum line and can’t emerge on its own. Impacted teeth can be painful and lead to infections and other dental problems. 

 

Additionally, a tooth may need surgical extraction if it’s severely damaged or decayed and can’t be saved through other treatments or removed with simple tooth extraction. Finally, surgical tooth extraction may be necessary if you’re undergoing orthodontic treatment and need a tooth removed to make room for other teeth.

The Microsurgery Tooth Extraction Process

Pre-Operative Preparation 

Before the procedure begins, our dentist will administer local anesthesia so the patient remains pain-free throughout the treatment. The surgical area is then carefully isolated and sterilized to maintain a clean working environment.

Microscope Setup and Positioning 

our dentist positions this advanced piece of equipment over the treatment area, adjusting it to provide optimal visualization. These microscopes typically offer magnification ranging from 4x to 25x, allowing our dentist to see the tiniest details of the tooth structure and surrounding tissues.

Surgical Access and Precision Incision 

If necessary, our dentist uses micro-instruments to make a small, precise incision. The enhanced visibility provided by the microscope ensures that this incision is made with minimal trauma to the surrounding tissues. This level of precision is one of the key advantages of microsurgery over traditional dental surgical techniques.

Microsurgery Procedure 

With the surgical site accessible, our dentist proceeds with the main part of the treatment. Our dentist uses specialized micro-instruments designed for extreme precision to identify and treat issues often overlooked by the naked eye.

Suturing 

Following the main procedure, if suturing is required, our dentist uses ultra-fine sutures to close the surgical site. The microscope’s magnification is particularly valuable during this phase, enabling our dentist to place sutures with exceptional accuracy for optimal healing.

Post-Operative Care and Follow-up 

Upon completing the procedure, our dentist provides detailed post-operative instructions to the patient. These guidelines are crucial for ensuring proper healing and minimizing any potential complications. Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor the patient’s recovery and treatment success.

How Recession disease is treated precisely at Dr. Kissel New York Periodontist?

Surgical Tooth Extraction Aftercare

Aftercare is a critical part of the healing process following a surgical tooth extraction. Here are some steps you can take to ensure a speedy and successful recovery:

  • Bite down on gauze: After the procedure, your dentist will place gauze over the extraction site to help stop bleeding. Bite firmly on the gauze for at least 30 to 45 minutes, replacing it with a fresh piece if necessary.
  • Apply ice: Applying an ice pack to your cheek can help reduce swelling and discomfort. Apply it for 10 minutes at a time with a 20-minute break in between for the first 24 to 48 hours.
  • Avoid strenuous activity: Avoid exercise, heavy lifting, and other rigorous activities for the first few days after the surgery.
  • Take medication: Take any prescribed pain medication and antibiotics as directed by your dentist. Over-the-counter pain medication like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can also help manage pain.
  • Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol: Smoking can delay healing and increase the risk of infection. Drinking alcohol can also delay healing and may interact with your medication.
  • Rinse with saltwater: Beginning 24 hours after the extraction, gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water several times a day to help reduce swelling and prevent infection.
  • Stick to soft foods: Avoid hard or chewy foods that may irritate the extraction site. Stick to soft foods like soup, yogurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies.
  • Follow up with your dentist: Make sure to attend any follow-up appointments with your dentist and follow their instructions for recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does insurance cover surgical tooth extraction?

In most cases, surgical tooth extraction is covered by dental insurance. However, it’s important to check with your insurance provider to understand your coverage and any out-of-pocket costs you may be responsible for. Your dentist can help you learn more about your benefits before the procedure. 

What can I expect during recovery from a microsurgical tooth extraction?

With microsurgical tooth extraction, patients can expect less swelling and discomfort in the days following the procedure than with traditional surgical extraction. Your dentist may recommend follow-up appointments to monitor healing and address any complications.

How long does it take to recover from a surgical tooth extraction?

Most patients can expect to return to normal activities within 48 to 72 hours. However, recovery times can vary depending on the individual patient and the complexity of the extraction. 

Are there any risks or complications associated with microsurgical tooth extraction?

As with any surgical procedure, there’s a risk of bleeding, infection, nerve damage, and other complications. However, these risks are minimized with microsurgical techniques. By following your dentist or oral surgeon’s instructions for aftercare, you can create excellent oral health after microsurgical tooth extraction.

Safe Microsurgical Tooth Extractions With Our NYC Dentist

Microsurgical tooth extractions are a common dental procedure performed when a tooth cannot be easily removed using traditional extraction methods. At NYC Periodontics and Implant Dentistry, Dr. Kissel performs these dental microsurgeries to help patients improve oral health with minimal trauma and healing time. 

Contact us today at 212-702-9088 to learn more about this procedure at our Midtown Manhattan dental office. 

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