A dental extraction is the complete removal, or extraction, of a tooth from its socket. This is sometimes referred to with the phrase “pulling” a tooth.
There are two types of tooth extractions – simple and surgical extractions. Simple extractions are usually performed on teeth that have fully erupted (or have come through the gums) and are visible. This type of procedure is most often performed under local anesthesia.
Surgical extractions are performed when a tooth has not fully erupted, or has broken underneath the gumline. Surgical extraction is necessary because the tooth is not easily accessed. This procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia.
Teeth may require extraction for different reasons. These could include tooth decay, infection, gum disease, or injury. Poor position, as with non-erupted teeth, or inadequate space may also indicate the need for extraction. Not every tooth lasts a lifetime, and it is important to care for all our teeth – those that can remain intact and those that need extra attention.
Regular dental exams are the best way to determine if your teeth, jaws and mouth are healthy or not. Medical professionals have tools and extra training to spot warning signs that may otherwise go unnoticed. Between dental appointments, if you are feeling continuous or severe pain or discomfort, that’s an indicator that something isn’t right. This is a necessary time to call on a dental professional to determine the cause and treatment.
If you’ve been told by your dentist that you need to have a tooth extracted, you might wonder what the next step is. How do you see an oral surgeon, what happens when you do, and how long will it take?
The first step is to contact our scheduling team to set up a consultation. You can request your consultation here, or you can call us at 828-687-0872. Our scheduling team will find a time that is best for your consultation. If you have had recent x-rays taken by your dentist, the first consultation can take place virtually. If you do not have recent x-rays, your consultation will need to happen in-person at our office in order for x-rays to be taken. These x-rays are essential for your oral surgeon to confirm or diagnose the problem and plan the extraction.
At this consultation we will also ask you to share your post-surgery goals. We’ll preform a complimentary benefits check, go through cost and financing, discuss the recommended treatment, as well as answer any questions you may have.
Once you are prepared to move forward with surgery, your oral surgery assistant will set up a day and time for the procedure that works with your schedule. We will provide you with pre-op instructions, and make sure you feel secure and prepared for the procedure and post-procedure.
Surgery will take place in a private surgical suite at our Asheville office, 1915 Hendersonville Road. All surgery plans are designed with your care in mind and under the appropriate anesthesia to maximize your comfort. This may be local anesthesia, nitrous oxide, or intravenous sedation.
Most patients will require a few days off from work or school to recover. During this time strenuous activity should be avoided. Resting with your head elevated for the first day or two may also help with bleeding. You will need to eat softer foods for the first few days post-procedure. It is also important to keep your mouth clean and avoid infection.
Our oral surgery team will discuss all personalized dos and don’ts for after your dental extraction.
You can request an appointment for oral surgery here. If you or your child is currently an orthodontic patient in our office, one of our orthodontists will be able to advise you on the needed oral surgery. You may also be referred to our oral surgery department by a dentist or other orthodontist.
