Oral surgery includes a range of dental procedures aimed at dealing with problems that cannot always be solved with simpler, conservative treatments. These may include tooth extractions, surgical extractions of impacted or partially impacted teeth, minor surgical procedures in the oral cavity, and the placement of dental implants. Before any surgical procedure or implant placement, a careful clinical examination and appropriate X-ray assessment are essential.
In this way the condition of the gums, the quality and quantity of the bone, general oral health and any factors that may affect the treatment outcome are checked. Each case is assessed individually, so that the appropriate treatment plan is chosen with an emphasis on safety, function and the long-term stability of the restoration. Proper patient information, careful preparation and following the instructions after the procedure are important for smooth healing and the success of the treatment.
How an extraction is done
Before any surgical procedure, a careful clinical examination and appropriate X-ray assessment come first, so that the tooth, the bone and your general health can be evaluated. The area is numbed and the tooth is removed. In a simple extraction a tooth that is visible in the mouth is removed. In a surgical extraction, as with an impacted wisdom tooth, a broken tooth or a broken root, the gum is opened, as much bone as necessary is removed, the tooth is sectioned if needed and the gum is stitched.
When it is indicated
- teeth that cannot be saved, because of extensive destruction, fracture, infection or advanced periodontitis,
- wisdom teeth that cause pain, infection, decay in the neighbouring tooth or are impacted,
- retained roots,
- persistent inflammation at the tip of the root that is not resolved by root canal treatment alone, in which case an apicoectomy is considered.
Before extraction, alternative ways of keeping the tooth are considered wherever possible.
Duration and recovery
Recovery depends on the case and the difficulty of each procedure; in general, 2 to 3 days are needed for any swelling to subside. During this time, swelling, tenderness and slight bleeding are normal. The following help: pressure with gauze, cold applied externally, soft and not hot foods, avoiding rinsing, smoking and drinking through a straw in the first few days, and taking the medication you are given. Contact the practice if the pain increases, bleeding does not stop or fever appears.
Removal of roots and apicoectomy
Root removal concerns parts of teeth that remain after a fracture or extensive decay. An apicoectomy is a minor procedure at the tip of the root, when there is persistent inflammation; its aim is to preserve the natural tooth wherever possible.
What to expect
With local anaesthesia you feel no pain, but you may feel pressure or movement. After the procedure you are given written instructions and information on when to get in touch. In more demanding cases, such as impacted wisdom teeth, recovery may take longer, and the dentist will tell you in advance.
Possible complications
Like any surgical procedure, extractions carry possible complications: prolonged bleeding, infection, dry socket when the clot is lost and, rarely, temporary altered sensation near the nerve, mainly with lower wisdom teeth. Careful assessment before the procedure and following the instructions reduce the risk.
Preparation and afterwards
Tell us about the medication you take, especially anticoagulants, and about conditions such as diabetes or heart disease. Do not stop any medication without instructions. After healing, replacement of the extracted tooth is discussed, for example with an implant or a bridge. For an examination in Thessaloniki, book an appointment at our practice.
