Tooth Extraction Ardmore PA | Wisdom Teeth Removal Havertown

Are your wisdom teeth coming in? Do you have multiple infected teeth? You may need a dental extraction. Tooth extractions are general dental treatments that remove problem teeth to restore function and comfort to the smile. We often recommend extractions as a last resort for patients with infected teeth that cannot be preserved with root canal treatment.

Extractions may also remove painful, impacted wisdom teeth. Dr. Jeffrey Bellisario offers tooth extraction treatment to patients in his Ardmore, PA dental office. Here, you can learn more about what happens during extractions and the benefits of this treatment.

Remove Wisdom Teeth in Ardmore, Pennsylvania

Simple and Complex Tooth Extractions

Dental extractions fall into two categories: simple and complex. Simple tooth extractions remove teeth above the gum line. They’re visible, allowing the dentist to access them easily. We usually use a local anesthetic to numb the area around the tooth, minimizing discomfort. The dentist uses a special tool called an elevator to loosen the tooth from its socket before gently removing it with forceps.

Complex extractions are for impacted teeth, meaning they are trapped beneath the gum line, so we can’t easily remove them. This type of extraction may require the dentist to make an incision in the gum tissue to access the tooth. We may also have to remove bone around the tooth to facilitate extraction. These extractions are more complicated, and we may refer you to an experienced oral surgeon if needed.

Removing Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth, also known as the third molars, are the last teeth to emerge. Most patients will notice their wisdom teeth coming in if they feel pain behind their back molars. At routine dental appointments, we will take digital X-rays to keep track of your wisdom teeth. If impaction is possible, we will schedule an extraction for you in our office.

Patients will need their wisdom teeth extracted to prevent impaction. Impacted teeth do not have enough room to erupt, so the wisdom teeth can dig into the back molars and overcrowded teeth. Patients often feel tooth pain or sensitivity when their teeth come in. Removing the wisdom teeth can prevent future dental problems.

Do You Need A Tooth Extraction?

One of the most common reasons for tooth extraction is severe tooth decay. When a tooth becomes decayed or damaged beyond repair, we may need to remove it for your overall oral health. Cavities can become large enough that a filling or crown won’t work to treat it. In some cases, the decay spreads to the tooth root, causing pain and infection.

We may also recommend extraction when you experience a hard hit to your mouth. This can occur when playing contact sports, especially if you aren’t wearing a mouthguard. Trauma can also occur if you slip or fall.

Another common reason for tooth extraction is gum disease. When plaque and tartar build up on the teeth and gums, it causes inflammation and infection. If left untreated, gum disease can cause the gums to pull away from the teeth, forming pockets that collect bacteria and food debris. This leads to infection and the destruction of the bone and tissue supporting the teeth. In severe cases, tooth extraction may be necessary to stop the infection from spreading further.

Tooth extraction is necessary for impacted teeth, and wisdom teeth are the most common. A tooth is impacted when it cannot erupt properly due to being blocked by other teeth or growing in at an angle. This can cause pain, swelling, and infection and may require extraction to prevent further complications. Wisdom teeth often require removal to prevent overcrowding, misalignment, and other issues.

In cases where there is not enough room in the mouth for all teeth to align properly, removing one or more teeth may be necessary to make space for braces or other orthodontic appliances. This can help improve the alignment of the teeth and jaw, creating a straighter, healthier smile.

Tooth Extraction Aftercare

Taking care of the extraction site after the procedure is essential for healing and avoiding dry socket. We’ll pack gauze into the site and have you bite down on it, stopping blood flow and starting the clotting process. A correct blood clot is necessary for healing properly.

Sometimes, we’ll prescribe pain medication to take during the healing process. Otherwise, you can use over-the-counter painkillers to manage the pain as you’re healing. We also recommend periodically using a cold compress to reduce inflammation and swelling. During the healing process, you’ll need to avoid both smoking and drinking alcohol. Both of these things compromise the healing process and can cause complications.

Wait 24 hours after the extraction to gently brush and floss your teeth. Don’t forcibly spit after brushing your teeth, as this can disrupt the blood clot. After that first 24 hours, begin rinsing your mouth with warm saltwater a few times daily. This keeps the extraction site clean and promotes the healing process.

Stick to a soft diet for the first few days after the procedure. Avoid chewing on the extraction site, and don’t put pressure on it. Avoid foods that are hot or spicy. You should also avoid drinking anything through a straw, which disrupts the blood clot and increases your chances of dry socket.

Tooth Extraction FAQs

Tooth extractions are simple procedures regularly performed in our dentist office. The answers to these frequently asked questions can help you learn more.

Is tooth extraction painful?

Tooth extraction is performed under local anesthesia, ensuring the procedure is virtually painless. You may feel pressure during the process, but no sharp pain. Post-extraction, mild discomfort is normal and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribed medication.

What is the difference between a simple and surgical extraction?

A simple extraction is performed on teeth visible above the gum line, which forceps can remove easily. A surgical extraction is necessary for teeth that are impacted, broken, or not fully erupted, requiring an incision in the gum and possibly bone removal.

How long does it take to recover from a tooth extraction?

Recovery typically takes one to two weeks, during which the gum tissue heals and the empty socket fills with bone. Following your dentist’s aftercare instructions, such as avoiding smoking, drinking through a straw, or eating hard foods, can speed up healing.

Can I eat normally after a tooth extraction?

For the first 24 hours, stick to soft, cool foods like yogurt, applesauce, or mashed potatoes. Avoid hot, spicy, or crunchy foods that could irritate the extraction site. Gradually reintroduce solid foods as healing progresses, typically after a few days.

What are dry sockets, and how can I prevent them?

A dry socket occurs when the blood clot protecting the extraction site is dislodged, exposing the underlying bone and nerves. It can cause severe pain and delay healing. Prevent it by avoiding smoking, drinking through straws, and rinsing your mouth vigorously in the first 24–48 hours after extraction.

Can I go back to work or school after a tooth extraction?

For simple extractions, most people can resume normal activities within a day, but it’s best to avoid strenuous physical activity for 24–48 hours. Surgical extractions may require a longer recovery period, and your dentist will advise on when to return to your routine.

Schedule an Appointment

Do you have wisdom teeth coming in? Contact Dr. Bellisario for a tooth extraction consultation at (610) 839-8967. You may also request a dental appointment on our website.