Extractions and minor surgery

Summary

• Extraction is discussed when a tooth cannot be kept with a filling, root canal treatment or a crown.
• In a dental abscess the pus is released through an incision. The tooth causing it is treated or removed separately.
• Minor procedures include taking a tissue sample, removing small cysts and gum overgrowths, and releasing a tongue or lip tie.

When is extraction considered?

Teeth destroyed by deep decay, teeth with fractured roots and teeth that have lost bone support from advanced gum disease fall into this group. Options to keep the tooth are reviewed first.

How the gap will be restored is discussed from the start.

Simple and surgical extraction

Visible teeth with straight roots are usually removed simply. Teeth with curved, fractured or firmly held roots need the gum opened and the tooth sectioned.

If an implant is planned later, care is taken to preserve the bone walls. A graft may be placed in the socket if suitable.

Dental abscess

An abscess is a collection of pus formed by bacteria around the root or gum. Throbbing pain, swelling, sensitivity to heat and sometimes fever come with it.

The pus is released through a small cut in the gum or, if needed, the skin. This is called incision and drainage. The clinician decides on any medication. The tooth behind it is treated with root canal therapy or extracted.

Emergency signs

Rapidly growing facial swelling, difficulty swallowing or breathing, and swelling that closes the eye should be assessed in a hospital emergency department.

Minor procedures

A sore lasting more than two weeks, a white or red area or an unexplained swelling needs an examination. The clinician takes a tissue sample if needed. A suspicious appearance is not left for two weeks. The pathology report gives the diagnosis.

Small cysts and gum overgrowths can be removed under local anaesthesia. A tongue or lip tie can be released if it affects speech, denture fit or gum health.

Known risks

Oozing, swelling and pain are expected at first. Dry socket, infection and separation of the wound edges can occur.

Report bleeding that does not stop with pressure, pain that keeps increasing, fever or a bad smell.

Frequently asked

What can I eat after an extraction?

Once the numbness wears off, lukewarm and soft food is fine. Very hot, hard or spicy food can irritate the wound early on.

Is medication alone enough for an abscess?

It can ease symptoms. Without draining the pus and treating the tooth, the problem usually returns.

Does taking a tissue sample hurt?

It is done under local anaesthesia. Mild tenderness may follow for a few days.

This treatment is carried out at Klinik 29 (Altunizade, Üsküdar). Klinik 29 website (English)

This information is for general guidance and does not replace an examination. Rapidly spreading facial swelling or difficulty swallowing or breathing is an emergency. Go to a hospital emergency department.