Oral Surgery
Tooth Removal & Extraction

Oral surgery is a specialized dentistry field involving surgical procedures on the mouth, teeth, and jaw. At Elmwood Dental, the most common procedures include tooth extractions, root canals, and wisdom teeth removal. These procedures are often necessary to address dental issues such as infections, severe tooth decay, or impacted teeth.

Tooth Extraction

A tooth extraction is a dental procedure where a tooth is removed from its socket in the jawbone. This procedure is often necessary for various reasons, including:

  • Severe Tooth Decay:
    When a tooth is too damaged to be repaired with a filling or crown.
  • Impacted Teeth:
    Teeth that cannot erupt correctly, such as wisdom teeth.
  • Periodontal Disease:
    Occurs when gum has caused significant bone loss around the tooth.
  • Injury or Trauma:
    Damage to a tooth that cannot be repaired.
  • Preparation for Dental Procedures:
    Make room for dental implants or orthodontic treatment.

What to Expect During a Tooth Extraction

  • Anesthesia: You will be given local anesthesia to numb the area around the tooth, ensuring you feel no pain during the procedure. Sometimes, sedation or general anesthesia maybe used for more complex extractions.
  • Tooth Removal: The dentist will carefully loosen and remove the tooth from its socket using specialized dental instruments.
  • Cleaning and Stitches: The socket will be cleaned to remove debris, and stitches may be placed to close the gum tissue.

After the Procedure:

  • Bleeding: You may experience some bleeding, which can be controlled by biting down on a gauze pad.
  • Swelling and Pain: Some swelling and discomfort are common after the procedure. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage pain.
  • Diet: Eating soft foods for a few days is recommended to avoid putting pressure on the extraction site.
  • Oral Hygiene: Gentle brushing and rinsing with warm saltwater can help keep the area clean.

Wisdom Teeth Removal

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last to erupt in the back of your mouth. They typically appear between the ages of 17 and 21. However, many people need more room in their jaws for these teeth to grow correctly.

Why Remove Wisdom Teeth?
If wisdom teeth don't have enough room to erupt fully, they can become impacted, which can lead to a variety of problems, including:

  • Deep Tooth Decay: Pain and discomfort: Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, swelling, and infection.
  • Damage to Nearby Teeth: Impacted teeth can push against other teeth, damaging their roots or alignment.
  • Cysts and Tumors: In some cases, impacted wisdom teeth can cause cysts or tumors to form.

What to Expect During Wisdom Tooth Removal

Wisdom tooth removal is a standard oral surgery procedure. Here's what you can expect:

Q: Anesthesia
Q: Tooth Removal
Q: Stitches
Q: Recovery

Contact Us

To request a consultation or for more information, contact us today by calling (585) 461-4350 or by filling out the form below, and we'll be happy to answer all of your questions.