Oral Surgery

When a tooth becomes severely damaged, decayed, or causes crowding, extraction may be the best solution to protect your oral health and overall well-being. At Advanced Dental Professionals, we provide safe, comfortable dental extractions as part of our oral surgery services. As a trusted dentist in Rapid City, we understand that the thought of oral surgery can feel overwhelming, which is why we prioritize patient comfort, clear communication, and gentle care throughout every procedure.

Our experienced team is here to guide you through the process, answer your questions, and ensure you feel confident in your treatment plan. We perform simple extractions in-house and refer out more complex cases to a specialist, and we’re committed to making your experience as smooth and stress-free as possible.

When Are Dental Extractions Necessary?

While our goal is always to preserve your natural teeth whenever possible, there are situations where extractions become the healthiest choice. Common reasons for needing oral surgery to remove a tooth include:

• Severe Decay: When a tooth is too damaged to be saved with a filling or crown, extraction may be necessary to prevent infection from spreading.
• Advanced Gum Disease: Periodontal disease can cause teeth to loosen, making extraction the best option to restore oral health.
• Impacted Wisdom Teeth: Wisdom teeth that don’t have enough room to emerge properly can cause pain, infection, and damage to surrounding teeth.
• Crowding: Sometimes extractions are needed to make room for orthodontic treatment or to improve bite alignment.
• Infection or Abscess: If a tooth infection cannot be resolved with root canal therapy, extraction may be required to protect your overall health.

As your family dentist, we carefully evaluate each situation and discuss all available options before recommending extractions.

What to Expect During Your Extraction

At Advanced Dental Professionals, we use modern techniques and local anesthesia to ensure your comfort during oral surgery. Here’s what you can expect:

• Consultation and X-Rays: We’ll begin with a thorough exam and imaging to assess the tooth and surrounding structures.
• Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is used to numb the area completely, so you won’t feel pain during the procedure.
• Extraction: Depending on the tooth’s position and condition, we’ll perform either a simple extraction or a surgical extraction. Simple extractions involve gently loosening and removing the tooth, while surgical extractions may require a small incision to access the tooth.
• Aftercare Instructions: We’ll provide detailed guidance on how to care for the extraction site to promote healing and prevent complications.

Most patients experience only mild discomfort after the procedure, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers and rest.

Recovery and Aftercare

Proper aftercare is essential for a smooth recovery following extractions. Here are some tips to help you heal quickly:

• Avoid drinking through a straw for at least 24 hours to prevent dry socket.
• Stick to soft foods for the first few days.
• Gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water after 24 hours to keep the area clean.
• Avoid vigorous brushing near the extraction site.
• Follow all instructions provided by your dentist in Rapid City.

Most patients recover fully within a week or two. If you experience excessive bleeding, severe pain, or signs of infection, contact us right away.

Tooth Replacement Options

After an extraction, it’s important to consider replacement options to maintain proper bite function and prevent neighboring teeth from shifting. One of the most effective solutions is dental implants, which provide a permanent, natural-looking replacement. While we don’t place dental implants in-house, we work closely with trusted specialists to ensure you receive seamless care and excellent results. As your family dentist, we’ll help coordinate your treatment and guide you through every step of the process.

Why Choose Advanced Dental Professionals?

We’re proud to offer compassionate, patient-centered oral surgery services to families throughout Rapid City. Our team combines skill, experience, and advanced technology to provide safe, effective care in a comfortable environment. You can trust us to deliver exceptional results with a gentle touch.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a tooth extraction take?

Most simple extractions take just 20 to 30 minutes. If your case is complex enough to refer out to a specialist, it may take longer. 

Will I be in pain during the extraction?

No. We use local anesthesia to numb the area completely, so you won’t feel pain during the procedure. You may feel some pressure, but it should not be uncomfortable.

What is dry socket, and how can I prevent it?

Dry socket occurs when the blood clot at the extraction site becomes dislodged, exposing the bone. Avoid using straws, smoking, and vigorous rinsing to reduce your risk.

Can I eat after my extraction?

Yes, but stick to soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies for the first few days. Avoid hot, spicy, or crunchy foods until you’ve healed.

How soon can I get a dental implant after extraction?

The timeline varies depending on healing and bone health. We’ll refer you to a trusted specialist who can evaluate your case and recommend the best timing for implant placement.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

If you’re experiencing tooth pain or have been told you need an extraction, don’t wait. Contact Advanced Dental Professionals today to schedule your consultation. Our caring team is here to provide expert oral surgery with the comfort and compassion you deserve.