Oral Surgeon in Eureka, MO

Sometimes a tooth is too far gone to fix and when that time comes, it is necessary to extract the tooth. Whether you need one tooth or all of your teeth extracted, our oral surgeon in Eureka, MO, can help.

What Causes the Need for a Tooth Extraction?

Teeth need to be extracted when your oral health (and, ultimately, physical health) are at risk. Below are a few causes and conditions that warrant the need for an extraction:

  • Severe tooth decay or infection
  • Other teeth do not have room to grow (such as in orthodontic treatments)
  • Advanced gum disease
  • Wisdom teeth cases

Tooth Extraction Procedure: What to Expect

Your Eureka, MO, oral surgeon will take an x-ray of your mouth to determine the best treatment option. Some factors to consider regarding whether an extraction is necessary include your age, the condition of the tooth in question, and if you have had any previous restoration work.

We understand how scary it is for some people to have a tooth extracted. Usually, this is because of a bad experience that was had previously as a child or even as an adult. We place a priority on making sure having a tooth extracted is not a painful experience.

For patients with high anxiety that want to be asleep for the procedure, we also work with our team of highly skilled oral surgeons who are happy to provide sedation services at their offices. Let us know your comfort levels, and we will work with you.

Wisdom Tooth Removal Eureka, MO

Another form of tooth extraction pays particular attention to the four permanent adult teeth located at the back corners of your mouth. Although some patients have no trouble with their wisdom teeth, a majority experience one or more of the following issues:

  • Pain
  • Trapping of food/debris behind the teeth
  • Infection/gum disease
  • Tooth decay in partially erupted tooth
  • Damage to nearby teeth or surrounding bone
  • Development of cysts around the teeth
  • Orthodontic complications

The type of impaction (where the tooth does not have room to grow or develop normally) determines how the wisdom teeth are removed. Your oral surgeon in Eureka, MO, will recommend and perform the solution that best fixes your case.

Post Operative Care

Generally, the Eureka, MO, oral surgeon removes the teeth in a matter of minutes, and the patient is free to head home following the procedure. It’s recommended to keep the following in mind as you recover:

  • Manage pain with over-the-counter analgesics (such as Tylenol), or use a prescription, and apply ice
  • Avoid strenuous exercise for at least a week
  • Eat only soft foods for 24 hours, gradually introducing more crunchy foods based on comfort level
  • Drink lots of water and avoid straws for at least a week
  • Don’t brush your teeth, rinse your mouth, spit, or use mouthwash in the first 24 hours, then lightly use a soft-bristled toothbrush 

It’s important to follow all dentist recommendations following your tooth extractions for the best possible outcome.

Dental Implants in Eureka

Following a tooth extraction, many patients opt for dental implants, which are man-made roots constructed from titanium that sit on the gum line. They are a popular option for replacing missing teeth, because they look and feel natural. Additionally, our very own Dr. Wehrmeister is experienced in many different aspects of implant dentistry, including:

  • Immediate placement of implants following tooth extraction
  • Full mouth implant reconstructions

He also has been recognized as a Diplomat in the International Congress of Oral Implantology. Rest assured that you’re in good hands at Eureka Dental Group.

Benefits of Dental Implants

Dental implants have a variety of benefits, which make them a desirable solution for those with missing teeth. They include:

  • A permanent solution
  • No possibility of slipping or falling out
  • You won’t have to limit what you eat
  • Superior comfort
  • Easily maintained with regular brushing, flossing, and periodic dental visits

Bone Grafts and Jaw Surgery in St. Louis

In order for dental implants to take hold, it’s necessary for the jaw bones to be strong enough to support them. Drs. G’Sell and Wehrmeister will evaluate your jaw bone structure to determine its density and strength, focusing on the affected area. If they believe your jaw bone is not strong enough, a bone graft is recommended.

How a Bone Graft Works

After your dentist determines your jaw bone is not strong enough to uphold implants, they perform a transplant. The procedure involves taking a piece of bone from another area of your jaw or body and placing it at the weakened spot. It is possible to utilize artificial materials, but the graft works better with your personal bone. 

After a period of time, the new graft grows with the existing jaw bone, creating a more stable foundation for the implant. Once the jaw bone is fully healed from the graft, the dental implant process can begin.

Schedule an Appointment with Our Oral Surgeon in Eureka, MO

The dentists at Eureka Dental Group are experienced in a variety of oral surgery procedures. It’s our goal to assist you in maintaining a beautiful smile while ensuring you are comfortable and happy. We pride ourselves in providing the highest quality dental care for those in Eureka, MO and the surrounding areas. 

If you have any questions or experience discomfort, schedule an appointment today. Our oral surgeons in Eureka, MO, will be happy to assess your situation and recommend procedures that will return your healthy, beautiful smile in no time!