"At Cookeville Oral Surgery, we understand that tooth extraction can feel daunting. Our team uses advanced techniques and personalized sedation plans to ensure your comfort throughout the entire process."
What Is a Tooth Extraction?
Tooth extractions are often necessary when a tooth is severely decayed, damaged, or impacted. You may also need a tooth extraction due to advanced periodontal disease, a poorly positioned tooth, preparation for orthodontic treatment, or an associated cyst or tumor.
On the day of your extraction, your oral surgeon will numb the tooth, gums, and surrounding jawbone with a local anesthetic. While you should not feel pain during the procedure, you may experience pressure as the tooth is carefully loosened and removed. If necessary, the tooth may be sectioned to facilitate removal.
Our board-certified oral surgeons use advanced imaging and minimally invasive techniques to make the process as smooth and comfortable as possible.
Types of Tooth Extractions
Simple Extraction
For visible teeth that are mobile or single-rooted. The area is numbed, then the tooth is loosened with an elevator and removed with forceps. Recovery is generally quick with minimal discomfort.
Surgical Extraction
For teeth that are not easily accessible, such as broken teeth or those with curved roots. An incision is made in the gum to expose the tooth and bone. The tooth may be sectioned for removal.
Impacted Tooth Extraction
For teeth that have not erupted properly, often wisdom teeth stuck in the jawbone. Involves removing bone to access the tooth. Recovery may require prescription pain medication.
Common Reasons for Tooth Extraction
Severe Decay or Damage
When a tooth is too damaged or decayed to be repaired with fillings, crowns, or root canal therapy, extraction may be the best option to prevent infection from spreading.
Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth that are stuck beneath the gum or growing at an angle can cause pain, infection, and damage to adjacent teeth. Early removal prevents complications.
Orthodontic Treatment
Sometimes teeth need to be removed to create space for proper alignment during braces or other orthodontic treatments, particularly in cases of overcrowding.
Infection or Periodontal Disease
Advanced gum disease or infection that has destroyed the bone supporting a tooth may require extraction to protect your overall oral health.
The Extraction Process: What to Expect
A thorough examination and X-rays are reviewed to understand the position of the tooth and its roots. We discuss your medical history, any medications you take, and determine the best anesthesia option for your comfort level.
Recovery After Tooth Extraction
Rest with your head elevated. Apply ice packs to reduce swelling. Bite gently on gauze to control bleeding. Eat soft foods and avoid using straws.
Swelling typically peaks and begins to subside. Continue soft foods and gentle warm saltwater rinses. Take prescribed or over-the-counter pain medication as directed.
Most discomfort subsides. Gradually return to normal foods. Continue gentle oral hygiene while avoiding the extraction site. Avoid smoking and alcohol.
Gums continue healing. You can resume normal activities and exercise. Follow up with your surgeon if you had a surgical extraction or stitches.