Tooth Extraction and Bone Grafting

Dental Care - Tooth Extraction and Bone Grafting Cottleville, MO

Most of the time, dental care is about preserving your teeth. However, there are times when teeth must be removed. There are many reasons this could be the case; insufficient remaining tooth structure, periodontal disease, perhaps the tooth is no longer a good investment financially, etc. We know that extractions can cause anxiety, but it is important to know that tooth removal is a common procedure at Brown Family Dental Care. 

After verifying the teeth to be removed, we begin the process by ensuring you are adequately numb. We then add pressure, and with patience, the tooth can be elevated and lifted clear. If this isn't possible, the tooth may in some cases be divided into small sections before removal. The site will possibly need to be closed with sutures, and soluble sutures are often preferable. Tooth extraction is a surgical procedure, which is why you'll want to plan downtime to rest. You may consider having a friend or family member drive you home. The site may still bleed, and you'll need to change the gauze until it has stopped. If it's still bleeding after 24 hours, give us a call, so we can talk about it.

After evaluation, we may determine that an Oral Surgeon's office is more appropriate for the procedure, but we will be happy to recommend a surgeon and answer any questions. Wisdom teeth are typically the last set of teeth to come in, and many people don't have room for them. That's why wisdom teeth cause so many problems. For many people, wisdom teeth will become impacted, which means that they have come in at the wrong angle. Wisdom teeth removal will usually require referral to an oral surgeon, but occasionally can be done in our office.

Any food you can eat with minimal chewing is a good option while you're healing. However, when drinking, do not use a straw. The suction from a straw can dislodge the clot that is vitally important to healing. You should also avoid smoking.

It can be an uncomfortable process, but the long-term benefits are often worthwhile.

If you experience ongoing pain, bleeding, or irritation, please call our office. At Brown Family Dental Care, we're dedicated to your ongoing dental care.

Site Preservation (Bone Graft)

After a tooth is removed, you must deal with the empty space left behind. A bone graft is not always necessary, especially in cases where tooth replacement will be achieved with a removable appliance. In some cases, you may be a good candidate and choose a dental implant. For an implant to be successful, good quality bone is a must. Therefore, a bone graft could be placed the same day as the tooth extraction. As soon as the tooth is removed, the space that is left behind is filled with a bone grafting material that will aid in the healing of the socket. This will help ensure there is adequate structure to place the implant.

To understand your options for site preservation, talk to our dentists at Brown Family Dental Care. We have 17 years of experience, and we'll make the best recommendations for your mouth, budget, and lifestyle. Our practice is committed to excellent dental care for the whole family. We offer comprehensive services and compassionate care.

You can expect honesty and integrity from everyone on our staff. We're a local business, and we're a family-owned, veteran-owned dental practice. 

Schedule an appointment today! If you're having a dental emergency, don't wait.

We offer emergency appointments for your pressing needs.