Basic Oral Surgery
Basic Oral Surgery in St Joseph, MO.
Basic Oral Surgery
At our office, we practice conservative dentistry. We’ll always present you with all your options and discuss them with you so you know what to expect.
Sometimes, surgery does become necessary. The most common surgical procedure we perform at our St. Joseph dental office is extractions.
Why Do I Need an Extraction?
Whenever possible, we will try to save your teeth. In some situations, however, this isn’t the best option. We will recommend an extraction if:
- Your tooth is extensively decayed and can no longer hold a crown.
- Your tooth has a severe infection that is putting your other teeth at risk.
- Your tooth has broken beneath the gumline and can’t be restored.
- Your teeth are overly crowded and we are preparing you for orthodontics.
- You have lost many of your teeth and we are preparing you for dentures.
What Happens During an Extraction?
Before your extraction, we will describe what to expect in detail. The type of extraction you need and the time required for the procedure will vary based on a number of factors, including the condition of the tooth, the location of the tooth, and your current level of oral health.
We understand that many patients are apprehensive about extractions, and we want to reassure you that your comfort is one of our top priorities. Before beginning your procedure, we will make sure that you are completely numb. You may still experience some pressure, but you will not experience any pain.
Once your extraction is complete, we will provide you with some gauze to keep in the socket. We’ll also thoroughly review your home care instructions and answer any questions you might have.
Self-Care Following an Extraction
Following Dr. Bratton’s instructions will help ensure proper healing and reduce the chances of any type of complication. Most extractions heal easily, and you will be back to normal in just a day or two.
In the meantime:
If you are experiencing any discomfort or swelling, take an over-the-counter medication like ibuprofen.
Ice packs applied to the cheek for about 20 minutes are also great for discomfort or swelling.
If you have been prescribed a medication, take it according to Dr. Sigman’s specific instructions. Antibiotics should be taken until the medication is gone.
Stick to soft foods. Yogurt, pudding, smoothies, and cool soups are great choices following an extraction.
Avoid drinking through a straw. The sucking action can dislodge the clot, which is important for healing.
Smoking can delay the healing process and dislodge the clot. Don’t smoke while you are healing.
If you ever have any questions or concerns about your extraction or your home care, please don’t hesitate to call our office. We’ll check in on you to make sure that your healing is going well.
Do You Need an Extraction?
If you have a tooth that is severely damaged or is causing you pain, call the office of Dr. Bratton today to schedule an evaluation. We will get you in as quickly as possible to help you feel better fast.
Your Trusted St. Joseph Oral Dentist
Bratton Dental Co. is conscious of the need of patients as they come for procedures at the office. Our highly experienced staff provides the best care and dedicate their time and energy to guide patients through what is generally an uncomfortable experience. With our offices updated to use the most advanced technology, and staff serving and monitoring the needs of patients, we believe we offer dental services that will put a smile on your face. With our exceptional care, particularly with more heavy-duty procedures, we guide patients towards solutions that offer less pain, quick recoveries, and the best results.
Those that need extensive care under our discretion should feel confident about the treatments they receive. We take the needs of patients very seriously and strive to make surgeries and procedures in the office as anxiety-free as possible. Procedures performed in our office that may require more work include wisdom teeth extractions and the restoration of implant retained dentures.
Aftercare is a big part of what we believe can help make a difference in our practice. Know that after any procedure, patients will be guided and sent home with guidance on how to heal best and work with any changes made. In the case of wisdom tooth extractions, this means knowing how to adjust to the healing tissue and prescribing the appropriate dosages to manage any pain—or providing guidelines for what to eat, when, and how long. Often after wisdom teeth removal, in particular, it’s recommended to follow a cold and soft set of foods, which means ice cream is on the menu! Our staff always makes themselves available to patients should the need arise, and believe that checkups and follow-ups are essential to an entire treatment.