Tooth Extractions

Wisdom teeth can sometimes partially emerge, creating a flap of gum tissue known as an operculum. This flap can trap food and bacteria, making it difficult to clean and increasing the risk of infection, a condition called pericoronitis. Impacted teeth can also lead to swelling, pain, or more serious infections. In cases where wisdom teeth pose these potential problems, removal is often necessary. Whether you need to extract a single tooth or all four wisdom teeth at once, the goal is to alleviate pain and prevent future dental issues.

At Divine Expressions, your comfort is our priority during any extraction. The procedure typically begins with either local anesthesia or general anesthesia, depending on your preference and the complexity of the extraction. Our experienced dentist will carefully open the gum tissue around the tooth to expose it fully. The tooth is then gently loosened and removed. In cases where the tooth is tightly impacted or difficult to extract, it may be broken into smaller pieces to ensure a smooth removal process. Throughout the procedure, we take great care to minimize discomfort and ensure a seamless experience.

Rest and recovery are crucial after your tooth extraction. Due to the effects of anesthesia, you’ll need someone to drive you home after the procedure. The extraction site may bleed slightly for a few hours, and we’ll provide you with gauze to help manage it. Pain medication may be prescribed to alleviate discomfort, and we’ll recommend a cleaning solution to keep the area clean while it heals. Recovery times vary, but with proper care, most patients feel back to normal within a few days.

After your extraction, sticking to soft foods is important for a smooth recovery. We recommend options like gelatin, pudding, yogurt, mashed potatoes, ice cream, and broths or thin soups. Avoid using straws and refrain from smoking, as both can interfere with the healing process and dislodge the blood clot forming at the extraction site. If you notice any unusual symptoms, such as prolonged pain, bleeding, or swelling, contact our office immediately so we can assist you.