SERVICES

Tooth Extractions

Tooth Removal Services

Having a tooth extracted may be necessary for numerous reasons, such as decay, trauma and/or disease. No matter why it may be necessary, tooth extraction is a fairly routine procedure that the doctors here at Omaha Oral Surgery & Council Bluffs Oral Surgery perform every day. Continue reading to find out why a tooth extraction procedure may be necessary and how you can make sure that your tooth extraction healing time is as speedy and comfortable as possible. Here at Omaha Oral Surgery & Council Bluffs Oral Surgery, we make the tooth removal process easy.


Reasons for Tooth Extraction

  • Periodontal Disease: Tooth removal may be necessary if, as in the case of wisdom teeth, they are too difficult to reach for cleaning. This situation can lead to a buildup of bacteria that can cause gum disease and tooth decay.
  • Infection: Infection can result from excessive bacteria buildup.
  • Pain: The eruption of wisdom teeth can be very painful, necessitating their removal.
  • Decay: Neighboring teeth can experience decay because of wisdom teeth.
  • Sinus Issues: Some teeth can cause sinus pain, congestion and pressure when they erupt.
  • Impaction: When teeth become impacted, they do not erupt properly and may push surrounding teeth out of position.
  • Crowding: When there isn’t enough space in the mouth for all teeth to emerge, they can shift and undo previous orthodontic work.
  • Cysts/Tumors: Untreated wisdom teeth may cause cysts or tumors to develop, leading to more serious problems later.

What To Expect

Length of Procedure

A typical tooth extraction takes about 30 to 60 minutes, although you should plan on being in our office for one-and-a-half to two hours to account for consultation, the actual tooth removal procedure and in-office recovery time. Please notify your doctor of any and all medications you are taking before the procedure.

IV Sedation

We recommend IV sedation for anesthesia because it puts you into a deep sleep during which you will feel no pain. You will awaken without any memory of anything that happened during the procedure. Our registered nurses are on staff to ensure your safety before, during and after the tooth extraction. If you have any questions about IV sedation, please visit our IV sedation page or call us at (402) 934-8999.

Before Your Appointment 


Recovery Instructions

Following an extraction, you will need to allow a few days to recover at home. With proper rest and care, tooth extraction wounds typically heal quickly and without complications. Expect to rest at home for the first 24 hours, which means staying home from work or school. Limiting strenuous activity in the first few days will reduce bleeding and help the blood clot to form.

Minor swelling and discomfort are common symptoms of extracted teeth, and not cause for concern. Most swelling and pain can be managed by applying ice to the affected area following the procedure. Your oral surgeon may also recommend over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribe pain medications to minimize discomfort.

To speed the recovery process and reduce the risk for infection, patients should eat soft foods in the first few days following the extraction. Good, nutritious options include soup, yogurt, eggs and applesauce. As the extraction site heals, you can slowly add solid foods back to your diet.


Avoiding Dry Sockets

  • Do not touch the wound for any reason other than changing gauze.
  • Do not smoke for at least 72 hours after the procedure. We recommend quitting smoking entirely.
  • Don’t eat any foods that may leave behind particles — such as popcorn, peanuts, pretzels, etc. — for at least four days.
  • Eat only soft foods such as mashed potatoes, ice cream and pudding.
  • Avoid carbonated soft drinks.
  • Notify your doctor of any prescriptions you take before the procedure.
  • Avoid using a straw or sucking on hard candies for one week after the procedure.
  • Do not participate in sports or engage in heavy lifting for five days.
  • Do not jog or play musical wind instruments for at least four days.

We're Here To Help

Whether you have questions about a tooth extraction or any other procedure, we're here to help. 

Give us a call at Omaha: 402.934.8999 or Council Bluffs: 712.309.0480. where our specialists are happy to help you.

Did You Know?

Putting ice packs on your face the first 36-48 hours after a tooth extraction is crucial and will help reduce swelling after your procedure.

 

Did You Know?

Putting ice packs on your face the first 36-48 hours after a tooth extraction is crucial and will help reduce swelling after your procedure.

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