Tooth Extractions in Traverse City, MI

At Harborside Dental, saving teeth is our number one goal. But sometimes an extraction is unavoidable, and thanks to modern technology and anesthesia, we provide fast, safe, and comfortable dental extractions in our office.

Our natural teeth help maintain a healthy jawbone, and when you lose a tooth, bone deterioration begins immediately. Tooth loss also disrupts normal chewing capacities, the alignment of your teeth, and jaw joint function. For this reason, Dr. Kozelko or Dr. Krull discuss teeth replacement options with patients during the extraction consultation.

Unlike most dental practices, we place dental implants, the closest alternative to natural teeth. From extraction to implant placement to placing the final restoration, our implant dentists provide every step in the implant process in our office. We also have an on-site, full-service dental lab where we fabricate crowns. This simplifies the entire approach, saving our dentists and patients time and money, and allows us to more easily customize your treatments.

The Extraction Process

Tooth extractions are minor procedures that we perform in our office every day. We start by administering a local anesthetic to numb the area and sometimes nitrous oxide to keep you comfortable. An extraction takes less than an hour but be prepared to rest the remainder of the day. Resting is key to a successful recovery.

Reasons for a Tooth Extraction

We extract teeth as a last resort. When there are no other options, we may recommend an extraction for the following reasons:

• Severe tooth decay
• Gum disease
• Overcrowding
• Impaction
• Tooth fractures
• Orthodontic preparation

After Tooth Extraction

A tooth extraction is a routine procedure, but it’s important that you follow aftercare instructions carefully. This will speed up your recovery and ensure there are no complications.

The formation of a blood clot in the surgical site protects and heals the wound. So, gently bite on a gauze pad for 30-45 minutes after surgery. Applying pressure helps to develop a clot. Continue to place gauze over the area and bite down firmly for 30 minutes at a time as bleeding or oozing continues. Disrupting or dislodging the clot can lead to a painful condition called dry socket.

Avoid smoking, drinking with a straw, and vigorous rinsing the first 72 hours, because these activities tend to dislodge blood clots. Exercise increases blood pressure and can cause bleeding from the wound, so refrain from strenuous physical activity for a day or two.

As the local anesthetic wears off after surgery, you may notice some swelling and discomfort. This is normal. Use an ice pack on your cheek ten minutes at a time and take over-the-counter pain medications until the discomfort and swelling subsides.

Drink plenty of liquids and eat soft foods the first day. Return to a normal diet as you feel comfortable. Make sure to resume your regular brushing and flossing routine to ensure proper healing and a clean mouth.

If you experience pain several days after the extraction or suspect you may have an infection because of a fever or pus in the surgical area, call us immediately. We will be sure to see you as soon as possible.