Extractions
You and Dr. Webber may determine that you need a tooth extraction for any number of reasons. Some teeth are extracted because they are severely decayed; others may have advanced periodontal disease, or have broken in a way that cannot be repaired. Other teeth may need removal because they are poorly positioned in the mouth (such as impacted teeth), or in preparation for orthodontic treatment.
The Extraction Process
At the time of extraction the doctor will need to numb your tooth, jawbone and gums that surround the area with a local anesthetic.
During the extraction process you will feel a lot of pressure. This is from the process of firmly rocking the tooth in order to widen the socket for removal.
You feel the pressure without pain as the anesthetic has numbed the nerves stopping the transference of pain, yet the nerves that transmit pressure are not profoundly affected. Some patients prefer more sedation for single or multiple tooth extraction. Please let us know, as we provide a wide range of anesthesia options to keep you comfortable.
If you do feel pain at any time during the extraction please let us know right away, so we can take steps to alleviate it.
Sectioning a tooth
Some teeth require sectioning. This is a very common procedure done when a tooth is so firmly anchored in its socket or the root is curved and the socket can’t expand enough to remove it. The doctor simply cuts the tooth into sections then removes each section one at a time. It is painless and much like having a “filling” done.
After Tooth Extraction
After tooth extraction, it’s important for a blood clot to form to stop the bleeding and begin the healing process. Bite on a gauze pad for 30-45 minutes immediately after the appointment. If the bleeding or oozing still persists, place another gauze pad and bite firmly for another 30 minutes. You may have to do this several times to staunch the flow of blood.
After the blood clot forms it is important to not disturb or dislodge the clot. Do not rinse vigorously, suck on straws, smoke, drink alcohol or brush teeth next to the extraction site for 72 hours. These activities may dislodge or dissolve the clot and hinder the healing process. Limit vigorous exercise for the next 24 hours, as this increases blood pressure and may cause more bleeding from the extraction site.
After the tooth is extracted you may feel some pain and experience some swelling. An ice pack or an unopened bag of frozen peas or corn applied to the area will keep swelling to a minimum. Take pain medications as prescribed. The swelling usually subsides after 48 hours.
Use pain medication as directed. If antibiotics are prescribed, continue to take them for the indicated length of time even if signs and symptoms of infection are gone. Drink lots of fluids and eat nutritious, soft food on the day of the extraction. You can eat normally as soon as you are comfortable.
It is important to resume your normal dental routine after 24 hours. This should include brushing and flossing your teeth at least once a day. This will speed healing and help keep your mouth fresh and clean.
After a few days you should feel fine and can resume your normal activities. If you have heavy bleeding, severe pain, continued swelling for 2-3 days, or a reaction to the medication, call our office immediately.
Konikoff Periodontics
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Dear Dr. Konikoff, I want to thank you and your team for your kindness, compassion, helpfulness, and professionalism today. I finally got a tooth extracted I did not want to separate from, but realized the time was now with this COVID-19 crisis and schedules has slowed down. Today, you and your team put me at ease with virtually no pain! You took care of me from the time I made the appointment until I left your doors. Everything was taken care of! Your nurse was able to call in my prescription 40 minutes before the pharmacy closed at 5:00 p.m. in Chesapeake and I made it into the parking lot at 4:57 p.m. and pulled out of the curb-side service at 4:59. Traffic was in my favor, too. I would say God was looking out for me on ALL angles (smile). God bless you and your team! Thank you.
- Gwendolyn M
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
First visits were great. Looking at a long term implant procedure.
- William W
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
As scared as I was, Dr Konikoff & his staff were amazing. Helped me relax by talking to me the entire time. I can label this "painless dentistry". If I ever need his expertise I will go back to him.
- Linda K
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Great professionalism exhibited by all!!
- Richard Prutsman J
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Excellent experience
- Kristie K
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
As terrifying as dental procedures are to me, I can honestly say that the staff made extraordinary efforts to keep me calm. They were very empathetic and kind.
- Michele S
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Procedure went smoothly and recovery was very easy.
- John M
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I had a tooth with a crown extracted. The Dr was very well prepared and the procedure went as he had previously described. There was no pain during the procedure and I had very minimal discomfort after leaving the office.
- James S
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Very Impressed
- Jack S
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
The visit was great no stress. Dr. Konikoff was great he did every thing he said he would do whiteout no pain. I would highly recommend this dental office to anyone that was looking for these procedures.
- Larry C
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I was very pleased with the doctor and his staff during my appointment. They were all very pleasant and caring.
- Alice P
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Dr. Konikoff came recommended to me by two dentists in the Hampton Roads area. I'm very pleased with my extraction and bone grafting - everything is healing quickly.
- Erin L
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Virtually pain-free for the first part of this journey. Let's hope the rest goes as well.
- William A
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I was brought back to the exam room at the scheduled time. The Doctor was patient with my questions and explained to me the various options I had.
- Dennis O
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Friendly and confident staff and doctor made the process comforting.
- Jelany D
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
How fortunate to meet a well-experienced expert in implants and patient care, Dr. Konikoff. As this is going to be my 5th implant, I can assess when treatment is well executed since this isn’t my “first rodeo”. Still, it is an intimidating process and the manner, ease, sense of humor of Dr. Konikoff put me at ease. I will highly recommend him and his practice!
- Pamela R
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Everyone was very friendly! Made you feel very comfortable. Very knowledgeable.
- Debbie L
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Very caring office staff and doctor
- Cliff C
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I had a great experience with a tooth extraction and bone graft for an implant. Everyone was so friendly and helpful.
- Tammy S
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I had a tooth extraction and bone graft on the same day. The doctor and staff worked together and made me feel at ease. They gave me instructions and phone numbers to call if I had any questions for the doctor. I am still recovering but I am hopeful that everything is going to heal well and be fine. In 5 months I will be returning for an implant.
- Elizabeth M