Extractions & Oral Surgery in Plains MT

Dental extraction, or simply tooth removal, is the artificial tooth removal from the dental alveolus (dental socket). Tooth extraction is of two types:

Simple extraction

When the tooth is visible above the gum line, it can be removed using an elevator and forceps. Most times, simple extraction requires only local anesthesia. 

Surgical extraction

If the tooth is broken at the gum line during a simple extraction, or if the jaw holding the tooth is too impenetrable, surgical extraction is required. Wisdom teeth are always removed using surgical extraction. 

Why is a Tooth Extracted?

Teeth are extracted in the following cases:

• Some teeth do not respond to root canal treatment and thus cannot be saved. 
• When a tooth suffers from excessive decay, and there's not enough bone to support the tooth after deep-decay treatment. 
• In cases of dental crowding (a condition where there's an anomaly in jaw size and tooth size)

What Is Oral Surgery?

Oral surgery is any surgery that treats disease or injuries in or around the mouth and the jaw. The surgery is performed by oral and maxillofacial surgeons. 

When Is Oral Surgery Performed?

• Tooth extraction 
• Root Canal Treatment
• Repositioning of the jaw
• Removal of foreign lumps

For gum diseases, a gum draft is required. In such cases, our dentists will refer you to our periodontist.

Before Extraction and Oral Surgery

The dentist will take an X-ray and go through your medical and dental history on your first visit. You cannot eat or drink for 8 to 10 hours before the surgery. Smoking before the procedure is strictly not allowed. Intravenous (IV) sedation is given for oral surgery, and local anesthesia is given in cases of a simple extraction. A small slit made on the gums and bone around the tooth may have to be removed. Many times, stitches are required to cover up the area after surgery.

Care After Dental Extraction and Oral Surgery

• Alveolar osteitis is a dry socket condition that occurs if gums continue bleeding. Stop the bleeding using a clean piece of gauze. 
• Consume liquids and soft food at room temperature for as long as recommended. 
• Do not brush the area or rinse your mouth for at least 12 hours. 
• Smoking for 48 hours post-surgery should be strictly avoided. 
• You can apply ice packs to reduce pain and swelling. If pain persists, take pain-relieving medication as prescribed by the dentist. 
• Complex surgeries might take longer to heal. Rinse with salt water for disinfecting your mouth and faster recovery. 
• Always follow the post-op guidelines. 

Please reach out to our dental practice in W Railroad Ave Plains, MT, to have a consultation with our dentists. You can call us at (406) 215-4705 or schedule an online consultation, and we'll guide you further.