Please note we may not offer this service at our practice. Call (601) 882-5600 to learn more.
A Patient’s Guide to Surgical Tooth Extraction
If a dentist has recommended surgical tooth extraction due to dental pain or need wisdom teeth removed, you may be wondering about the procedure, how it works, and the aftercare procedure. Although many people are nervous going into their extraction, Dr. Alexa Lampkin is skilled at pain management and performing the surgery effectively and efficiently.
To schedule an appointment with our dentist in Pearl, MS, contact our Pearl dental office today at (601) 882-5600.
What is Surgical Tooth Extraction?
Surgical tooth extraction is a specialized dental procedure that goes beyond a simple extraction. When a tooth can’t be easily removed with standard techniques, our skilled dental professionals create a small incision in the gum tissue to access and remove the tooth from its socket in the jawbone.
Common Reasons for Surgical Tooth Extraction
There are several reasons why you may need a surgical dental extraction:
- Impacted wisdom teeth that can’t emerge properly through the gum line
- Severely damaged teeth from trauma or extensive decay
- Crowded teeth requiring removal for orthodontic treatment
- Periodontal disease that has weakened the surrounding bone
- Infection risk that threatens your overall oral health
The Surgical Extraction Process
Your comfort and safety are our top priorities during every surgical tooth extraction procedure. Here’s what you can expect:
- Thorough examination, including digital X-rays to assess the tooth position and surrounding structures
- Personalized anesthesia options ranging from local anesthesia to deeper sedation based on your needs
- Precise surgical technique minimizing trauma to surrounding tissue
- Careful extraction sometimes includes sectioning the tooth for easier removal
- Proper closure with dissolving stitches when necessary
- Gauze placement to control bleeding and promote blood clot formation
Surgical Tooth Extraction Post-Operative Care
The days following your surgical tooth extraction are crucial for proper healing. Our dental team provides detailed extraction aftercare instructions to ensure a comfortable recovery and prevent dry socket:
First 24 Hours After Extraction
- Bite gently on gauze pads for 30-45 minutes to control bleeding
- Apply ice packs to reduce swelling (10 minutes on, 20 minutes off)
- Take prescribed medications as directed for pain management
- Avoid rinsing, spitting, or using straws to protect the blood clot
- Rest and avoid strenuous activity to prevent complications
Days 2-7 After Extraction
- Gently rinse with warm salt water starting 24 hours after surgery
- Continue pain management as needed
- Stick to soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies
- Avoid smoking and alcohol, which can delay healing
- Keep the extraction site clean without disturbing the healing area
Frequently Asked Questions
With proper anesthesia and sedation options, you should feel minimal discomfort during the procedure. Some soreness afterward is normal, but we provide pain management strategies to keep you comfortable.
Most patients return to normal activities within 48–72 hours, though complete healing of the socket takes one to two weeks. The removal of impacted wisdom teeth may require slightly longer recovery times.
While complications are rare, potential risks include infection, dry socket, nerve damage, and sinus issues for upper teeth. Following our detailed aftercare instructions minimizes these risks significantly.
Most dental insurance plans provide coverage for necessary surgical extractions. The dental office staff can help verify your benefits and explain any potential out-of-pocket costs before your procedure.
Choose Surgical Tooth Extraction in Pearl, MS
When you need a tooth removed, trust the experienced team at our Pearl dental office. Our dental professionals use modern surgical techniques and comprehensive pain management to ensure your comfort throughout the entire process.
Serving patients from Pearl, Brandon, Richland, Jackson, and surrounding areas. Contact us today at (601) 882-5600 to schedule your consultation and learn more about our surgical tooth extraction services.