Surgical Extractions

Extractions are usually performed to maintain proper oral health and address tooth pain or other dental issues. When a tooth is severely decayed or infected and can’t be treated with an endodontic procedure or a filling, a surgical extraction may be necessary to relieve discomfort and prevent further complications. Surgical extractions are also performed by our dentist at Dr Be Smiles when the wisdom teeth are impacted or trapped beneath the gums.

Impacted wisdom teeth can cause swelling, pain, and infection. Additionally, impacted teeth can be dangerous because they can grow sideways toward your other healthy teeth and damage the roots of the adjacent teeth, causing them to become loose and eventually fall out.

The Procedure for Surgical Extractions

During a surgical extraction, our dentist makes a small incision in the patient’s gum and uses forceps to remove the affected teeth and their roots. In most cases, local anesthesia is used to numb the gums and surrounding teeth, ensuring patient comfort. Once the process is over, patients should schedule a follow-up appointment with the dentist for an evaluation and further treatment.

Patients who undergo surgical extractions may need dental implants, bridges, or dentures to replace the extracted teeth. These restorations will restore the affected tooth's functionality and the smile's aesthetic. They will also help to prevent surrounding teeth from shifting out of alignment over time.

In some cases, patients must undergo a bone grafting procedure before getting these restorations. This procedure will help ensure the jawbone can adequately support the restoration.

The Benefits of Surgical Extractions

Less Discomfort

Surgical extractions are performed under anesthesia or other forms of sedation dentistry, which can help patients feel little to no pain during the procedure. Patients can typically return home on the same day as their extraction and resume their normal activities within a few days.

Less Risk of Infection

Surgical extractions also help remove any infection lingering in the jawbone and surrounding tissue. This can help prevent the development of an abscess in the jaw. If an abscess forms, it may spread bacteria to the rest of the body and cause other serious health problems.

Better for Removing Impacted Teeth

Extraction of wisdom teeth is necessary if they are impacted or to prepare for orthodontic treatments. Impacted teeth can cause pain and even damage to the surrounding healthy teeth. When a tooth is impacted, the gum tissue cannot keep it in place. This can lead to infection, gum disease, and bone loss. Surgical extraction may be necessary when the impacted tooth cannot be dislodged with gentle pressure.

Surgical extractions are performed when a tooth cannot be saved due to severe decay or trauma. For more information, visit Dr Be Smiles at 4511 N Midkiff Rd, Suite E-15, Midland, TX 79705, or call (432) 520-4867.