Extractions

If you have a damaged or infected tooth that can’t be repaired, you might need an extraction. Marc Gainor, DMD, MAGD, and the team at the Rockefeller Dentistry in the Midtown East neighborhood of New York, New York, have the expertise and experience to perform tooth extractions to get your oral health on a better path. If you have a severely decayed or infected tooth, make an appointment at Rockefeller Dentistry today for an evaluation to determine if an extraction is right for you. Call or book online.

What are tooth extractions?

Extractions are a dental procedure that involves removing a tooth from its socket in the jawbone. This may become necessary due to various reasons, such as:

• Tooth decay or damage
• Gum disease
• Crowding of teeth
• Impacted teeth
• Preparation for orthodontic treatment
• A tooth beyond repair
• Wisdom teeth that don’t emerge properly
  

You might also need one or several tooth extractions if you’re preparing for one or more dental implants or partial or full dentures.

What’s it like to have a tooth extracted?

A tooth extraction is generally a straightforward and simple procedure, especially when performed by an experienced dental professional such as Dr. Gainor. If you feel anxious about your procedure, he can provide anti-anxiety medication and offer sedation methods as well.

The extraction process involves numbing your tooth, gums, and jaw with local anesthesia. Once you can’t feel anything, Dr. Gainor uses special dental tools to gently wiggle the tooth back and forth to loosen it from the socket. You might feel some pressure, but you won’t feel pain.

In some cases, the tooth may need to be divided into smaller pieces if it is too firmly attached to the socket. Overall, the extraction process usually takes only a few minutes. 

If you have sedation of any kind, plan to have a friend or family member drive you home after your procedure for safety reasons.

How are extractions cared for after the procedure?

After your extraction procedure, follow your aftercare instructions to prevent any complications and ensure optimal healing. Here are some helpful tips on caring for your mouth after a tooth extraction:

• Bite down on gauze to promote blood clotting and reduce bleeding
• Apply an ice pack on your cheek to reduce swelling and discomfort
• Avoid brushing or rinsing for the first 24 hours
• Stick to soft foods and liquids for the first few days
• Don’t smoke or use tobacco products for at least 72 hours
• Avoid strenuous physical activity or heavy lifting for at least 24 hours

If you have discomfort, you can take over-the-counter pain relievers. Dr. Gainor may also recommend antibiotics to stop an infection from developing.

If you have questions about tooth extractions, call the Rockefeller Dentistry today or book an appointment online.