Extractions

Your permanent teeth are tough, but they won’t necessarily last a lifetime. Each year, millions of Americans undergo tooth extractions. At his practice in Midtown Manhattan, experienced dentist Barnett Geller, DDS, FAGD, has over 40 years of experience performing simple and surgical extractions. To make an appointment, call the office in New York City, or book online today.

What are extractions?

Tooth extraction is an outpatient procedure. During treatment, Dr. Geller uses special tools to carefully remove a permanent tooth from its socket. 

Whenever possible, Dr. Geller makes an effort to preserve natural teeth, but sometimes, extractions are necessary.

Why would I need extractions?

Dr. Geller might recommend extractions if you have:

• Severe tooth decay
• A fractured tooth
• Impacted wisdom teeth
• Crowded teeth
• Gum disease

You might also benefit from extractions if you’re preparing to undergo a significant medical procedure, like chemotherapy or an organ transplant. That’s because tooth extractions may reduce the risk of infection and other complications.

What happens before extractions?

Dr. Geller reviews your dental records and performs an oral exam. He also orders a series of computed tomography (CT) scans to get a closer look at your tooth roots, jaw, and alveolar bone. 

During the visit, let Dr. Geller know about any vitamins, medication, or supplements you take. Certain drugs can interfere with the anesthesia, so it’s important that Dr. Geller’s aware.

After gathering the necessary information, Dr. Geller develops a custom extraction treatment plan.

What are the types of extractions?

Dr. Geller performs several types of extractions, including:

Simple extractions

If you have a damaged or decaying tooth that’s above the gum line and easy to access, Dr. Geller performs a simple extraction.

He numbs your mouth with a local anesthetic, gently loosens your tooth, and removes it with forceps. Then, he puts a piece of gauze in the socket to stop the bleeding and moves you to a recovery room for observation.

Surgical extractions

If you have an impacted wisdom tooth or other teeth that can’t break through the gum line, Dr. Geller performs a surgical extraction.

He numbs your mouth with a local anesthetic and uses special tools to access the tooth beneath your gums. Then, Dr. Geller splits your tooth into pieces and removes them. After surgery, he closes the incision and provides care instructions.

Are tooth extractions safe?

Tooth extractions are safe and typically well-tolerated, but they can present risks, including:

• Post-surgical infection
• Dry socket
• Nerve injury
• Delayed healing

To reduce the risk of these and other issues, follow Dr. Geller’s recovery instructions. Take your medication as prescribed, get plenty of rest, and drink lots of water.

Most people feel back to normal within a day or two, but if your symptoms get worse, contact Dr. Geller immediately.

If you’re considering tooth extractions, request a consultation at the practice of Barnett Geller, DDS, FAGD, by calling the office or booking online today.