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Gentle Tooth Extractions for a Healthier Smile
While preserving natural teeth remains our primary goal, certain situations require tooth extraction to protect your overall oral health and eliminate pain. Severely damaged, infected, or impacted teeth can threaten surrounding healthy teeth and bone if left untreated. Modern extraction techniques ensure comfortable procedures with minimal recovery time, allowing you to return to normal activities quickly.
South Hills Dental Arts performs gentle tooth extractions using advanced technology and sedation options for your comfort. Our experienced team handles everything from simple extractions to complex surgical removals in-house, eliminating the need for specialist referrals. Serving Pittsburgh for 35 years across four convenient locations, we make necessary extractions as comfortable and stress-free as possible.
When Tooth Extraction Becomes Necessary
Visible teeth above the gumline typically require simple extraction procedures. After numbing the area completely, we gently loosen the tooth using specialized instruments called elevators. Forceps then remove the tooth with controlled rocking motions. Most simple extractions complete within minutes with minimal discomfort.
Simple extractions heal relatively quickly with proper aftercare. The extraction site forms a blood clot protecting underlying bone while new tissue develops. Complete healing typically occurs within one to two weeks for simple extractions.
Types of Tooth Extractions
Simple Extractions
Microabrasion gently removes superficial white spots using a mild acidic compound with fine abrasive particles. This minimally invasive technique eliminates surface discolorations while preserving maximum tooth structure. The procedure requires no anesthesia and provides immediate results for appropriate cases.
Our microabrasion technology precisely controls removal depth, ensuring conservative treatment. The process involves applying the abrasive compound and using specialized instruments to remove affected enamel carefully. Following treatment, we polish teeth to a smooth, lustrous finish.
Surgical Extractions
Teeth broken below the gumline, impacted teeth, or teeth with curved roots require surgical extraction. This procedure involves creating a small gum flap for better access and possibly removing some surrounding bone. Complex teeth may be sectioned into smaller pieces for easier removal.
Our oral surgery expertise handles complex extractions comfortably in-office. Advanced imaging guides surgical planning, while our surgical technology ensures precise, minimally invasive procedures. Most surgical extractions heal completely within three to four weeks.
The Extraction Process
Your extraction appointment begins with a thorough review of your medical history and medications. Certain conditions and medications affect bleeding and healing, requiring special precautions. We coordinate with your physician when necessary to ensure safe treatment.
Local anesthesia ensures complete numbness before beginning your extraction. Our virtually painless injection system minimizes discomfort during numbing. For anxious patients or complex procedures, we offer sedation options including nitrous oxide and IV sedation for maximum comfort.
During extraction, you feel pressure but no pain due to effective anesthesia. If you experience any discomfort, inform us immediately for additional numbing. Our gentle techniques minimize tissue trauma, reducing post-operative swelling and accelerating healing.
After tooth removal, we place gauze over the extraction site, applying pressure to control bleeding and promote clot formation. Detailed post-operative instructions ensure proper healing. We provide prescriptions for pain management and antibiotics when necessary.
Tooth Replacement Options After Extraction
Planning tooth replacement before extraction ensures optimal outcomes and prevents complications from missing teeth. Approximately 178 million Americans are missing at least one tooth, with various replacement options available.
Titanium posts surgically placed in the jawbone provide the most natural tooth replacement. Implants preserve bone, maintain facial structure, and function like natural teeth. We often place implants immediately after extraction when conditions allow.
Advanced Technology for Safer Extractions
South Hills Dental Arts utilizes state-of-the-art technology enhancing extraction safety and predictability. Our 3D X-rays reveal tooth root anatomy, proximity to nerves, and surrounding bone structure. This detailed visualization prevents complications and guides surgical approach.
Digital imaging shows impacted teeth positions relative to adjacent structures. We identify nerve locations, sinus proximity, and other anatomical considerations affecting extraction technique. This comprehensive planning ensures safer, more predictable procedures.
Piezoelectric surgical instruments use ultrasonic vibrations cutting bone while preserving soft tissues. This selective cutting ability protects nerves and blood vessels during complex extractions. Patients experience less trauma and faster healing with this advanced technology.
Our Plasma Rich Growth Factors treatment accelerates healing using concentrated growth factors from your blood. Applied to extraction sites, this natural healing accelerator reduces swelling, discomfort, and healing time significantly.
Post-Extraction Care and Healing
Proper aftercare significantly impacts healing speed and comfort following extraction. The first 24 hours are critical for blood clot formation and initial healing. Rest with your head elevated, apply ice packs to reduce swelling, and avoid strenuous activities.
The ADA recommends keeping extraction sites moist for proper healing. Gentle saltwater rinses beginning 24 hours post-extraction keep the area clean without disrupting the clot. Avoid vigorous rinsing, spitting, or using straws creating suction that could dislodge the protective blood clot.
Maintain a soft diet for several days, gradually returning to normal foods as comfort allows. Stay hydrated but avoid hot beverages initially. Smoking significantly impairs healing and increases dry socket risk, so abstain during recovery.
Follow medication instructions carefully for optimal pain management and infection prevention. Most discomfort peaks within 48-72 hours before steadily improving. Contact us immediately if you experience severe pain, excessive bleeding, or signs of infection.
Schedule Your Tooth Extraction at South Hills Dental Arts
When tooth extraction becomes necessary, choosing experienced professionals ensures safe, comfortable treatment and optimal healing. South Hills Dental Arts combines decades of extraction experience with advanced technology and compassionate care. Our comprehensive approach handles your extraction and replacement needs conveniently in one location.
We provide extraction services at four Pittsburgh locations in Upper St. Clair, Ingram/Crafton, Sewickley, and McMurray, ensuring accessible care when you need it. Insurance coverage and flexible financing through CareCredit and Cherry make necessary extractions affordable. Don’t let problematic teeth affect your health and comfort. Call 412-833-6166 or complete our contact form to schedule your extraction consultation today.
