At Alliance Dental, we do whatever we can to save your natural teeth, because your natural teeth are important to your dental health. However, sometimes a tooth is damaged beyond treatment or needs to be removed in cases of overcrowding to prevent future problems. In those cases, Dr. Spaska Malaric may recommend a dental extraction to relieve pain and protect your dental health.
As with all dental procedures, we want you to feel completely comfortable for your treatment. We take the necessary time to ensure that you won't experience unnecessary pain. Dr. Malaric is highly skilled at removing troubled teeth and supporting you during the healing process, so you achieve the best possible outcome.
A simple extraction refers to removing a tooth that has already erupted through your gums. We gently loosen the tooth and lift it from the gum tissue. If you require a bone graft for implant placement, we can do it at this time, saving you time. In most cases, simple extractions do not require stitches. While you heal, it is best to avoid smoking and drinking through a straw, which can dislodge the blood clot. This clot is necessary for healing, and losing it too early could cause a painful dry socket. Eating soft foods and avoiding chewing in the area of your extraction will also promote healing.
When your tooth has not yet erupted through the gums or is only partially erupted, you will need a surgical extraction. We will remove your tooth and stitch the surgical site to promote healing. Follow-up visits will be necessary to ensure proper healing and to remove stitches once your tissue heals. Following post-surgical instructions will help healing occur more quickly.
Not everyone needs their wisdom teeth extracted, but since they are your most posterior teeth, they are difficult to reach to keep clean and free of decay. Wisdom teeth often grow in at odd angles or do not have enough room to fully erupt, making them painful. In those cases, removing them will provide relief. We can evaluate your wisdom teeth with digital X-rays to determine if an extraction is best for your health.
If we ever feel you would be more comfortable or achieve a better outcome by having an extraction from an oral surgeon, we will refer you to one of our trusted partners. We will stay in contact with the oral surgeon so that you receive the best continuity of care.
Most patients do not want to have a gap in their smiles. Having a gap is not all about appearances! Missing teeth can cause problems with your remaining teeth and your bite. That is why we offer a wide variety of tooth-replacement options to meet the needs of our patients. Dental implants, dental bridges, and partial dentures are some of the most common ways to close the gap in your smile and prevent drifting.
If you have a tooth that requires an extraction, or if you are experiencing dental pain, contact our Fort Myers dental office at (239) 939-2433 to schedule an exam with Dr. Spaska Malaric. She can evaluate your needs and make a recommendation that will support your oral health and wellness. We look forward to seeing your smile.
