Teeth Extractions in Oklahoma City

Tooth Extractions at Oral & Facial Surgery of Oklahoma

At Oral & Facial Surgery of Oklahoma in Oklahoma City, led by Dr. Wooten, we understand that tooth extractions can be a concerning prospect. However, they are often necessary to maintain your overall oral health and relieve pain or discomfort. Whether it’s for severe decay, overcrowding, impacted wisdom teeth, or trauma, Dr. Wooten and our team are committed to providing you with safe, comfortable, and efficient care.

Why You Might Need a Tooth Extraction

Tooth extractions may be recommended for a variety of reasons, including:

1. Severe Tooth Decay or Infection: If a tooth has decayed beyond repair, and a filling or crown won’t restore it, extraction may be the best solution. When decay or infection has spread deeply into the tooth, it can cause pain and potentially lead to further complications. Removing the tooth can help prevent the infection from spreading to other areas.
2. Impacted Wisdom Teeth: Wisdom teeth are a common source of extraction, especially when they become impacted—unable to fully emerge through the gums. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, swelling, infection, or damage to surrounding teeth. Dr. Wooten’s expertise in wisdom tooth extractions ensures that these procedures are performed with minimal discomfort.
3. Orthodontic Treatment: If you’re undergoing braces or other orthodontic treatments, Dr. Wooten may recommend tooth extractions to create space for proper alignment of the remaining teeth. This can help improve both function and appearance of your smile.
4. Gum Disease: If gum disease has progressed to the point where the tooth is loose or severely damaged, an extraction may be necessary. This is often done to prevent further damage to the gums and bone structure.
5. Trauma or Injury: Accidents or trauma to the mouth can result in teeth that are too damaged to repair. In such cases, an extraction is performed to prevent infection and alleviate pain.
6. Overcrowding: For some patients, tooth extraction is necessary to create space for proper alignment, especially when there isn’t enough room in the jaw for all the teeth.

The Extraction Process at Oral & Facial Surgery of Oklahoma

Dr. Wooten and the team will ensure that your tooth extraction is performed with the utmost care and comfort. Here’s what you can expect during the procedure:

1. Consultation and Examination: During your initial consultation, Dr. Wooten will perform a thorough examination and take X-rays to evaluate the condition and position of the tooth. He will discuss the best options for your situation and explain the process in detail.
2. Anesthesia Options: Depending on the complexity of the extraction and your comfort level, we offer several anesthesia options. Local anesthesia is typically used for simple extractions, while sedation or general anesthesia may be provided for more complicated cases, such as wisdom teeth extractions.
3. Extraction Procedure:
   • Simple Extraction: If the tooth is visible and healthy enough to be removed, Dr. Wooten will use specialized tools to loosen the tooth and carefully extract it.
   • Surgical Extraction: For teeth that are broken below the gum line or impacted, a surgical procedure is required. This may involve making a small incision in the gum tissue and possibly removing the tooth in sections.
4. Post-Procedure Care: After your extraction, Dr. Wooten and our team will provide detailed aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth recovery. This includes guidance on managing pain, reducing swelling, and avoiding activities that could disrupt the healing process, such as smoking or using a straw.
5. Follow-Up Appointment: A follow-up visit is often scheduled to monitor the healing process and ensure the extraction site is healing properly.

FAQs About Tooth Extractions at Oral & Facial Surgery of Oklahoma

1. Does tooth extraction hurt?

• You will not experience pain during the extraction due to local anesthesia, but you may feel some pressure. After the procedure, mild discomfort or swelling is normal and can be managed with over-the-counter medications or prescribed pain relief.

2. How long does the extraction process take?

• A simple extraction usually takes around 20 to 40 minutes. For more complex extractions, such as impacted wisdom teeth, the process may take longer, but Dr. Wooten ensures the procedure is as efficient as possible while maintaining the highest standard of care.

3. What can I expect during recovery?

• Recovery time can vary depending on the complexity of the extraction. For most simple extractions, you can expect mild discomfort for a few days. More complex cases may require a bit longer for full healing. Dr. Wooten will provide specific instructions tailored to your procedure to help manage swelling, bleeding, and discomfort.

4. Can I drive after my extraction?

• If you only received local anesthesia, you should be able to drive yourself home after the procedure. However, if you had sedation or general anesthesia, you will need someone to drive you home.

5. What are the risks of tooth extraction?

• Although tooth extractions are generally safe, there are some risks involved, including infection, excessive bleeding, or damage to adjacent teeth. Dr. Wooten will discuss these risks during your consultation and take every precaution to minimize them.

6. Do I need a replacement tooth after the extraction?

• Depending on the location of the extracted tooth, Dr. Wooten may recommend a replacement option, such as a dental implant, bridge, or partial denture, to restore function and aesthetics.

7. How can I avoid needing extractions in the future?

• Regular dental visits at Oral & Facial Surgery of Oklahoma, along with good oral hygiene practices (brushing, flossing), can help maintain your oral health and prevent conditions that may lead to tooth extractions.

Why Choose Oral & Facial Surgery of Oklahoma?

Dr. Wooten and the team at Oral & Facial Surgery of Oklahoma are dedicated to making your tooth extraction experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible. With advanced technology, compassionate care, and a focus on patient safety, we strive to ensure that your oral health is in the best hands. If you or a loved one is in need of a tooth extraction, schedule a consultation with us today to discuss your options and start your journey toward better oral health.