- Simple dental extraction
- Surgical dental extractions
- Wisdom teeth extractions
- Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) and Platelet Rich Fibrin (PRF) extraction treatments
In dentistry, there are two types of extractions: simple extractions and surgical extractions. Both of these procedures involve removing a tooth from its socket, but there are differences in the level of complexity and the techniques used.
Simple extractions are performed on teeth that can be easily seen and accessed in the mouth, and are often recommended when a tooth is damaged beyond repair due to decay, trauma, or infection. During a simple extraction, the dentist will numb the area around the tooth with a local anesthetic, and then use forceps to loosen the tooth from its socket before gently removing it.
Surgical extractions, on the other hand, are more complex and are typically required when a tooth has not fully erupted, is impacted, or is in a difficult-to-reach location in the mouth. During a surgical extraction, the dentist may need to make incisions in the gum tissue to access the tooth, and may also need to remove bone around the tooth to fully extract it. In some cases, the tooth may need to be sectioned into smaller pieces to make removal easier.
While both simple and surgical extractions are generally safe and routine procedures, surgical extractions may require a longer recovery time and may be more uncomfortable for the patient. Your dentist will be able to advise you on which type of extraction is best for your individual situation based on factors such as the location of the tooth, the condition of the tooth, and your overall health.
Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) and Platelet Rich Fibrin (PRF) extraction treatments: At Cummins Family Dental, our dentist strongly encourages all our patients to take advantage of Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) and Platelet Rich Fibrin (PRF) extraction treatments. These advanced therapies begin with a small sample of your own blood, which is spun in a centrifuge to separate its key components: plasma, red blood cells, and a concentrated mix of white blood cells and platelets.
PRP and PRF, rich in healing and growth factors, are then applied directly to the surgical site or combined with bone grafts. This not only accelerates healing of soft tissue (gum) and hard tissue (bone) but also significantly reduces the chances of post-operative complications such as infection, dry socket, and failed bone grafts or implants. These treatments are particularly beneficial for patients with conditions like diabetes or those who smoke, which can otherwise impair healing.
Post Treatment Instructions:
- Your lips, teeth, cheek and/or tongue may be numb for several hours after the procedure. To avoid injury, you should avoid any chewing and hot beverages until the numbness has completely worn off. It is very easy to bite or burn your lip, cheek, or tongue while you are numb.
- Biting on moistened gauze until the bleeding subsides is the best way to control the bleeding. Change the gauze as it comes saturated with a new moistened gauze. If bleeding persists after 2-3 hours, keep your head elevated and sit upright. You may try "home remedies" such as a moistened tea bag places on the site for 30 minutes to help control bleeding. Overnight, it is normal for some blood to "ooze" from the area of the surgery. **If you notice excessive bleeding call the office or go to the nearest emergency room.**
- You may experience some bruising in the area of the surgery. In some people, this is a normal response and should resolve within 7-14 days after surgery. Swelling is best controlled by the immediate application of ice packs for the first 24 hours following surgery. Ice packs should be applied to the outside of the face in intervals of 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off.
- Jaw muscle stiffness with some limited opening of your mouth may occur after removal of teeth. This is a normal response and may take several weeks to improve. Using warm moistened towels on your face 24 hours after surgery may improve stiffness.
- There may be a slight elevation of temperature for the first 24-48 hours after surgery. If a fever is present, it is extremely important to drink plenty of fluids. Please call the office if there is a concern.
- Drinking plenty of fluids is essential. Do not such through a straw as this will promote bleeding. Eating soft nutritious food is encourages as soon as the bleeding has stopped and for the first few days after surgery.
- For the first 24 hours, do not brush or rinse your teeth as this may disrupts healing. After 24 hours, gentle brushing with a soft toothbrush is encouraged, but avoid the extraction site. Avoid brushing sutures, if placed. You may use a warm salt water rinse (1/2 tsp mixed with 8 oz. of warm water) 3-4 times per day after the first 24 hours to help soothe the discomfort. Do not spit for 48 hours after surgery.
- Do not smoke for at least 48 hours after surgery. Smoking adversely affect oral hygiene and contributes to "dry socket." Spitting and rinsing too early after surgery may also contribute to this painful condition.
- Please refrain from strenuous activity until 48 hours after surgery, as this will promote bleeding and interfere with the healing process.
- You may be prescribed medications. Take them as directed to help control the discomfort. To avoid nausea, do not take pain medications on an empty stomach. Please note: some antibiotics may interfere with the effectiveness of your birth control pills. Please check with your pharmacist.