Extractions

Extractions provide a safe and effective way to treat common oral health problems, like impacted teeth or severe decay. At Double Diamond Dental in Reno, Nevada, general and cosmetic dentist Michael A. Morgan, DDS, and his team specialize in extractions. Dr. Morgan enjoys oral surgery and performs both simple and surgical extractions during in-office visits. To see if you can benefit from extractions, call the office or book online today.

What are extractions?

An extraction is a surgical procedure that removes a permanent tooth completely from its socket. 

Your permanent teeth are tough and withstand lots of wear-and-tear, but they’re susceptible to cavities and trauma. Whenever possible, the Double Diamond Dental team tries to preserve permanent teeth, but sometimes, extractions are necessary.

When are extractions necessary?

The Double Diamond Dental team uses extractions to treat various oral health problems, including:

• Severe tooth decay
• Fractured teeth
• Impacted teeth
• Crowding
• Severe gum disease
• Loose teeth

You might also benefit from extractions if you’re preparing to undergo surgery or a medical procedure like chemotherapy. Extractions can reduce the risk of complications, like an infection.

What are the types of extractions?

At Double Diamond Dental, the team performs several types of extractions, including:

Simple extractions

A simple extraction removes a permanent tooth above your gum line. During treatment, your provider numbs your mouth with an anesthetic and uses dental pliers to loosen your tooth. Your provider then pulls the tooth out with forceps and packs your empty socket with gauze.

Surgical extractions

If you have an impacted wisdom tooth that’s unable to break through the gum line, the team performs a surgical extraction. Your provider numbs your mouth and makes a small incision in your gum tissue, revealing the tooth beneath. They separate the tooth into several pieces and carefully remove it.

After extracting the tooth, your provider closes the incision, packs your empty socket with gauze, and provides recovery instructions.

What is recovery like after extractions?

After extractions, take it easy for at least 24 hours. During that time, get plenty of rest, drink lots of water, and take your medications as prescribed. 

The team at Double Diamond Dental recommends eating a soft diet for the first three or four days, including foods like scrambled eggs, soup, and mashed potatoes. Avoid biting down on the area where your tooth used to be and don’t drink from a straw to avoid a painful dry socket. 

Your mouth should heal within a week, but if your symptoms persist or worsen, contact the team.

To see if you need extractions, call Double Diamond Dental and make an appointment, or book online today.