What Does a Dental Implant Look Like?

Posted on March 10, 2025March 3, 2025 by admin

What Does a Dental Implant Look Like?

When the procedure is complete, a dental implant will look just like a natural tooth. Whether you have one implant or several, no one will be able to tell the difference. The natural look and the health benefits of implants make them a popular choice among patients. The ability to replace teeth to similar chewing forces is best accomplished with dental implants.

If you need to have teeth removed, talk to a dental implant surgeon at Topeka Oral Surgery. We are here to provide trusted care and help you improve your oral health and smile with confidence.

What Does a Dental Implant Look Like?

A dental implant has several parts, but only the crown is visible above the gum line. Here’s a breakdown of each part:

Implant Post

The implant, also called a “screw,” is put into the jawbone. Made from biocompatible materials like titanium or zirconia, it resembles a small screw. Most people, even those with metal allergies, can safely receive dental implants. The implant post functions like the root of a natural tooth, providing a strong base to hold the replacement tooth.

After the post is inserted into the jawbone, the surrounding bone fuses to it in a process called osseointegration, making the implant part of the jawbone.

Abutment

The abutment sits on top of the implant post, but it’s not visible above the gum line. Once the implant is fused with the bone, the abutment is placed. It has a small connector that fits into the post, with a tapered top where the crown will be attached, commonly via a screw.

Crown

The crown is the only part visible above the gum line. It looks exactly like the tooth it replaces, and the color can be matched to blend with your natural teeth.

After your implant procedure, you’ll be able to eat any food, talk, and smile confidently. No one will be able to tell the difference between your natural teeth and the implants.

Considering Dental Implants?

If you’re considering dental implants, Topeka Oral Surgery is the place to go. Our team of oral surgeons has the experience and expertise you can rely on. We also assist patients who’ve been told they aren’t candidates for implants by using the latest technology and techniques.

Schedule a consultation today at Topeka Oral Surgery. Call us anytime to schedule an evaluation!

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Hours of Operation

Monday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Tuesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Wednesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Thursday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Saturday: By Appointment

Sunday: Closed

Monday - Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Saturday: By Appointment

Sunday: Closed

What Happens If You Don’t Remove a Decayed Tooth?

Posted on March 7, 2025March 3, 2025 by admin

What Happens If You Don't Remove a Decayed Tooth?

The Importance of Addressing Tooth Decay

If a decayed tooth isn’t treated in time, it can lead to serious problems such as infections, abscesses, and damage to nearby teeth or jawbone. This can lead to numbness to your lip, chin, and tongue.

Treating tooth decay early can help avoid these issues. However, if the damage becomes severe, tooth extraction may be necessary to protect your overall oral health.

At Topeka Oral Surgery, we provide safe and effective tooth extractions to remove decayed teeth and prevent further complications. Many of our patients choose dental implants after an extraction to restore their smile and enjoy both functional and aesthetic benefits.

What Happens If Tooth Decay Is Left Untreated?

Infection Spread

A decayed tooth allows bacteria to reach deeper layers, including the tooth pulp, where nerves and blood vessels are located. This can result in a painful abscess that might spread to nearby teeth, gums, or jawbone. In severe cases, the infection can enter the bloodstream and impact your overall health.

Tooth Loss

As decay progresses, it weakens the tooth, increasing the chance of breakage. If the tooth becomes too damaged for repair, extraction may be the only option. Tooth loss can lead to issues like misaligned teeth and loss of jawbone density.

Risks to Overall Health

Untreated dental infections can also affect your general health, potentially contributing to conditions like heart disease, diabetes complications, and respiratory infections. This makes addressing tooth decay vital for both oral and overall health.

Signs You Might Need a Tooth Extraction

Here are some common signs that your tooth may need to be removed:

Severe and ongoing tooth pain
Swelling or pus near the tooth
A bad taste or odor in your mouth
Cracked or heavily damaged teeth

If you notice these symptoms, it’s important to seek professional care. At Topeka Oral Surgery, our skilled oral surgeons will assess your situation and recommend the best treatment to relieve your discomfort and protect your oral health.

Replacing a Decayed Tooth

After a tooth is removed, replacing it is crucial to maintain your smile and prevent problems like shifting teeth or bone loss. Dental implants are an excellent solution, functioning like natural teeth and helping to preserve your jawbone. Most often we will place a bone graft into the extraction site and after 3-4 months of healing we will then place a dental implant.

Our team at Topeka Oral Surgery will evaluate your oral health and determine if dental implants are the right option for you. These implants provide a durable, long-term solution that restores your smile and full oral function. Implants will last > 20 years.

If you’re worried about a decayed tooth or think you may need an extraction, reach out to us today. At Topeka Oral Surgery, we’re committed to offering personalized care to help you achieve a healthy, confident smile.

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Hours of Operation

Monday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Tuesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Wednesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Thursday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Saturday: By Appointment

Sunday: Closed

Monday - Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Saturday: By Appointment

Sunday: Closed

What Is a Traumatic Dental Injury?

Posted on March 3, 2025February 28, 2025 by admin

What Is a Traumatic Dental Injury?

A traumatic dental injury happens when your teeth, gums, lips, or the surrounding areas get hurt due to an impact. These injuries can range from small chips to losing a tooth completely. It’s very important to get dental help right away to avoid long-term damage and keep your mouth healthy.

Types of Traumatic Dental Injuries

Chipped or Broken Teeth

A part of the tooth may break off. Treatment usually involves smoothing the edges or fixing the tooth with bonding or a crown. This would be a visit to your general dentist.

Cracked Teeth

Cracks can be small or deep. Treatment may involve bonding, a root canal, or a crown, depending on how bad the crack is.

Dislodged Teeth

These teeth are pushed out of place. An Oral surgeon can often put them back, but you need to act quickly.

Knocked-Out Teeth

If a tooth falls out, it’s important to act fast. Keep the tooth moist (in milk if possible) and see an Oral Surgeon right away, ideally within 1-2 hrs.

Intruded Teeth

These teeth are pushed into the jawbone. Treatment usually involves repositioning and stabilizing the tooth or letting them come down into position on their own with time.

Soft Tissue Injuries

Cuts or tears in the gums, lips, or inside the mouth. These may need cleaning and stitches to heal properly.

Symptoms of Dental Trauma

Symptoms can vary, but common signs include:

Tooth pain or ache
Swelling or bleeding in the mouth
Loose or missing teeth
Sensitivity to hot or cold
Trouble chewing or speaking

What to Do if You Experience Dental Trauma

Get Immediate Care: Contact Topeka Oral Surgery right away. If you can’t reach them and the injury is serious, go to the nearest emergency room.

Save the Tooth: If a tooth is knocked out, rinse it with water and try to put it back in the socket. If you can’t, keep it in milk or saline solution until you see an Oral Surgery..

Manage Pain and Swelling: Take over-the-counter pain relief and apply ice to reduce swelling while you wait for care.

Benefits of Tooth-Colored Fillings

Tooth-colored fillings (resin composite fillings) are a great choice for fixing damaged teeth. Some benefits are:

Looks Natural: They match the color of your teeth for a smooth, natural look.
Strong: Modern materials are durable and can handle chewing pressure.
Less Tooth Removal: They require less drilling than other fillings, keeping more of your natural tooth.
Better Support: Composite fillings bond to the tooth, adding extra strength.

Timely Care for Dental Injuries

A dental injury can be upsetting, but getting the right care quickly can help you recover and avoid long-term issues. If you or someone you know has a dental injury, contact Topeka Oral Surgery for expert treatment and personalized care.

Call us today to schedule an emergency consultation and get your smile back!

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Appointment

Hours of Operation

Monday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Tuesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Wednesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Thursday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Saturday: By Appointment

Sunday: Closed

Monday - Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Saturday: By Appointment

Sunday: Closed

What to Do to Reduce Swelling After Wisdom Teeth Surgery?

Posted on February 28, 2025March 3, 2025 by admin

What to Do to Reduce Swelling After Wisdom Teeth Surgery?

Wisdom Teeth Extraction: What to Expect During Recovery

Your oral surgeon performs wisdom teeth extraction as an outpatient procedure, meaning you’ll recover mostly at home. To ensure a smooth healing process and minimize discomfort, there are a few key guidelines to follow during your recovery.

On the Day of Surgery

As the sedation medications wear off, you’ll notice some blood in your mouth, along with pain and swelling—this is normal. Applying an ice pack to your jaw can help reduce swelling and discomfort during the first 48 hours. Then you can switch to warm compresses. You’ll receive specific aftercare instructions, including a prescription for pain management. Avoid driving until the following day, and have someone with you to assist as needed at home.

The First Two Days After Surgery

During the first couple of days, avoid caffeine, alcohol, and smoking, as these can slow down healing. Also, refrain from using straws, chewing gum, or spitting, as these actions can cause complications.

Pain and swelling are most noticeable during days 3-5. Ice packs applied to the affected area for 20 minutes at a time will help keep swelling in check during the first 48 hours. Sleeping with your head elevated can also reduce discomfort. Use extra pillows to support your head while resting, and take it easy—this is the perfect time for relaxation!

Days Three to Five After Surgery

By day three, you may feel tightness in your jaw and have difficulty fully opening your mouth. Applying moist heat can help relax the muscles. While bleeding should be minimal, some minor spotting may occur for up to a week. If bleeding becomes heavy, contact your oral surgeon.

Most people feel better within three to five days, but if your teeth were impacted or the roots were long, recovery may take a bit longer.

Long-Term Recovery

While you’ll likely feel much better after the first week, complete recovery takes time up to 3-6 weeks. The surgical site will continue to heal over the next few weeks, and maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial to avoid infection.

Managing Pain

Pain levels vary, but most people experience discomfort for the first few days. Ice packs and over-the-counter pain medications can usually manage the pain. If needed, your oral surgeon may prescribe stronger pain relievers. Antibiotics may also be prescribed to reduce the risk of infection—be sure to complete the full course.

What to Eat After Surgery

You may not feel hungry right after surgery, but staying hydrated and nourished is essential. Stick to soft foods like mashed potatoes, yogurt, scrambled eggs, and smoothies (avoid using straws). Avoid crunchy or hot foods that could irritate the surgical site.

Signs of Potential Problems

While most people recover without issues, be aware of signs that could indicate a problem, such as:

Fever
Increasing pain after day 5
Swelling that worsens after day 5

Excessive bleeding or discharge If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your Topeka Oral Surgery right away. For more information on recovery or to schedule a consultation, call us at (785) 228-0500.

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Appointment

Hours of Operation

Monday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Tuesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Wednesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Thursday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Saturday: By Appointment

Sunday: Closed

Monday - Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Saturday: By Appointment

Sunday: Closed

How to Prepare for Your Wisdom Teeth Removal?

Posted on January 10, 2025March 3, 2025 by admin

How to Prepare for Your Wisdom Teeth Removal?

What to Expect When Getting Your Wisdom Teeth Removed - Topeka Oral Surgery

If you’re getting your wisdom teeth removed, don’t worry—it’s a common and straightforward procedure. This guide will help you prepare and ensure a smooth recovery.

Here’s what you should know, according to Topeka Oral Surgery:

How to Eat

Do NOT: Eat or drink anything the morning of your surgery or for at least eight hours before. You can take your medication with a small amount of water. Avoid using straws or tobacco until 72 hrs after recovery, as straws can cause a painful condition called “dry socket.”

Do: Stock up on soft, easy-to-eat foods like ice cream, applesauce, soup, yogurt, mashed potatoes, milkshakes, smoothies, and oatmeal. After surgery, start with clear liquids and gradually move to soft foods after 3 days.

How to Get Around

Do NOT: Arrive alone for the surgery or plan to drive yourself home. We won’t proceed with the surgery or release you if you’re alone.

Do: Bring a companion who can stay with you during the procedure (usually about an hour).

How to Spend Your Time

Do NOT: Plan to exercise, go to work or school, or do any housework or homework immediately post operatively.

Do: Relax, rent some movies, and rest on the couch. Feel free to sleep the day away.

How to Manage Pain

Do NOT: Worry about pain. We use different types of anesthesia to keep you comfortable, so you won’t feel pain during the procedure and this will last for a few hours post operatively.

Do: Have pain medication (over-the-counter or prescription, if needed) ready for when the anesthesia wears off. Keep ice packs in your freezer to help with swelling. We recommend two ibuprofen and 1 Tylenol pill to be taken together 4 times daily. Then if still having pain – then we recommend to supplement with the Narcotic pain pill Q6h prn severe pain.

Preparing for your wisdom teeth removal is easy with these simple steps. Before your surgery, we’ll provide you with detailed instructions so you know exactly what to expect.

You’re in good hands with Topeka Oral Surgery. If you have any questions, check the information we’ve provided or call us at (785) 228-0500 to schedule a consult or fill out the form below and we will reach out to you to schedule a time evaluate your wisdom teeth.

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Hours of Operation

Monday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Tuesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Wednesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Thursday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Saturday: By Appointment

Sunday: Closed

Monday - Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Saturday: By Appointment

Sunday: Closed

7 Reasons Why You Should Remove Wisdom Teeth?

Posted on January 6, 2025March 3, 2025 by admin

Reasons Why You Should Remove Wisdom Teeth?

If your child has braces, the orthodontist will likely recommend scheduling wisdom teeth removal after the braces come off, but before the wisdom teeth grow in and potentially mess up the straightened teeth. The thought of all the time and money spent on braces being undone by wisdom teeth can motivate any parent to act.

But is the risk of crooked teeth the only concern with delaying wisdom teeth removal? Not at all! According to Topeka Oral Surgery , there are six other important reasons to consider having your child’s wisdom teeth removed during their teens or early twenties.

Here’s why it’s better not to wait

Pain: It’s easier to prevent pain than deal with it later. Wisdom teeth trying to fit in with the other teeth can cause problems like decay, infections, abscesses, and misalignment, leading to jaw pain and swelling and decay to the adjacent teeth, and resorption of adjacent bone.

Gum Disease: The back of the mouth, where wisdom teeth are located, is a hotspot for bacteria. Food can get trapped between the wisdom teeth and gums, leading to decay. If left untreated, it can result in gum disease, bone loss and subsequent additional tooth loss. Removing the wisdom teeth can help prevent the progression of gum disease.

Health Risks: Oral health is closely linked to your overall well-being. A gum infection can enter the bloodstream, increasing blood pressure and potentially leading to serious health problems like strokes and heart attacks.

Poor Mouth Function: Impacted or infected wisdom teeth can cause swelling in the jaw, making it painful or difficult to eat or talk.

Cysts: If wisdom teeth don’t have enough space to come in, cysts can form, damaging the jawbone and tooth roots. A biopsy would be required in this instance to learn the diagnosis and treat accordingly.

Difficult Extractions: The longer you delay, the more challenging it becomes to remove the wisdom teeth. The best time for extraction is between the ages of 16 and 20, when the roots are still developing. The goal time to remove the wisdom tooth is when the root is ⅓-⅔ developed.

Removing wisdom teeth can prevent these issues. If your child’s wisdom teeth are coming in fine and not causing any problems, regular dental checkups are still important. Wisdom teeth can be prone to decay and gum disease, so it’s crucial to keep an eye on them.

The goal is to remove them prior to becoming symptomatic if they are indicated. If your child is having problems with their wisdom teeth, call us today at (785) 228-0500 to schedule a consultation at Topeka Oral Surgery or fill out the form below for us to call you to schedule at your convenience.

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Hours of Operation

Monday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Tuesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Wednesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Thursday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Saturday: By Appointment

Sunday: Closed

Monday - Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Saturday: By Appointment

Sunday: Closed

Why Summer is the Best Time for Wisdom Teeth Removal ?

Posted on January 3, 2025March 3, 2025 by admin

Why Summer is the Best Time for Wisdom Teeth Removal ?

According to Topeka Oral Surgery, summer is an ideal time to have your wisdom teeth removed. While it might seem like an odd choice for the season of relaxation, there are several good reasons why summer is perfect for this procedure.

Convenient Scheduling

Summer offers a natural break from work or school, giving you the time to rest and recover without the stress of your usual routine. This makes it easier to schedule an appointment with Topeka Oral Surgery at a time that works for you. You won’t need to worry about balancing work or school commitments, making summer the perfect time for a smooth and hassle-free procedure.

Avoiding Work and School Disruptions

Wisdom teeth removal often requires a few days of rest, during which you may experience swelling, discomfort, and dietary restrictions. For students, summer is a great time to have the procedure done so it doesn’t interfere with school. Adults with more flexible schedules during the summer also find it easier to take time off for the procedure and recovery, avoiding interruptions to work. Since wisdom teeth develop and erupt between the ages of 16-25 years. It is common to have them removed and scheduled around the patient’s school schedule. We make sure to have extra hours open during these weeks per our local school districts.

Recovery Made Easier

While recovery from wisdom teeth removal isn’t exactly “fun,” summer weather can make it a bit more bearable. You can rest and relax outdoors, enjoy fresh air, read a book, or take a gentle walk to help boost your mood and aid in healing. Just be sure to avoid strenuous activities or too much sun exposure for 1 week during the recovery.

Time to Schedule Your Appointment

If you’ve been putting off wisdom teeth removal, now is the time to make an appointment. At Topeka Oral Surgery, we aim to make the procedure as comfortable as possible so you can get back to your routine with a healthy smile. Call us at (785) 228-0500 to schedule a consultation and we will can help make time for you and or your family.

Request an Appointment

Appointment

Hours of Operation

Monday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Tuesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Wednesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Thursday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Saturday: By Appointment

Sunday: Closed

Monday - Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Saturday: By Appointment

Sunday: Closed

Do I Need to Have Stitches Removed After My Wisdom Tooth Procedure?

Posted on December 30, 2024March 3, 2025 by admin

Do I Need to Have Stitches Removed After My Wisdom Tooth Procedure?

What You Need to Know About Stitches and Aftercare, According to Topeka Oral Surgery

Wisdom tooth surgery is something most people go through at some point. These extra molars can cause problems, making surgery necessary to remove them.

While wisdom tooth surgery is common, many people are unsure about what happens afterward, particularly with the stitches. Here’s what you need to know.

Do Wisdom Tooth Stitches Need to Be Removed?

Usually, the answer is no. Oral surgeons often use dissolvable stitches for wisdom tooth surgery. These stitches gradually dissolve on their own as your mouth heals, so you won’t need to have them removed. If a suture has not dissolved and it has been two weeks then please call us and we will find time anyday to remove the remnant suture.

In rare cases, non-dissolvable stitches might be used. If this happens, your surgeon (Topeka Oral Surgery ) will inform you, and you’ll need to return for a follow-up appointment to have them removed.

When Do the Stitches Dissolve?

Dissolvable stitches typically disappear within 7-10 days after surgery. The time it takes can depend on the size of the stitches, the complexity of the surgery, and the material used. Sometime they can come loose within 48hrs and that is fine as well.

If you have non-dissolvable stitches, your surgeon will schedule an appointment 7-10 days after surgery to remove them and check your healing progress.

Other Aftercare Tips

Your oral surgeon will give you detailed aftercare instructions, which are important to follow. Here are some common guidelines:

Keep your mouth clean by gently rinsing with saltwater 48 hours after surgery.
Complete your course of antibiotics as prescribed.
Stick to soft foods.
Avoid smoking, using straws, or anything that could cause a dry socket for the first 72 hrs after surgery.

About Our Practice

Welcome to Topeka Oral Surgery ! We understand that people aren’t usually excited about oral surgery, but we make every effort to change that. With a comfortable office, advanced technology, and excellent customer service, we strive to make your visit a positive experience. After seeing us, you’ll want all your oral surgeries done here.

If you have any questions about wisdom tooth surgery, feel free to call us at (785) 228-0500 or fill the contact form below to request a call back to schedule an appointment.

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Hours of Operation

Monday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Tuesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Wednesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Thursday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Saturday: By Appointment

Sunday: Closed

Monday - Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Saturday: By Appointment

Sunday: Closed

Understanding Wisdom Tooth Pain: What You Need to Know

Posted on December 29, 2024March 3, 2025 by admin

Understanding Wisdom Tooth Pain What You Need to Know

Are you a teenager or young adult feeling pain in your jaw or the back of your mouth? This might be wisdom tooth pain. These teeth, which appear after all your other teeth, often cause issues. Dentists usually recommend removing them before they create more problems.

Keep reading to learn why wisdom teeth can hurt and why extraction may be needed.

What Are Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars, typically appearing between ages 16 and 25. They were helpful for our ancient ancestors who ate hard, uncooked foods like nuts and tough meats, which wore down teeth. Back then, these extra molars replaced lost or damaged teeth. Today, they’re considered unnecessary because our diets and dental care have changed.

Why Do Wisdom Teeth Hurt?

Wisdom teeth often cause dental problems, which is why dentists suggest removing them. According to Topeka Oral Surgery, common reasons for pain include:

Growing at the Wrong Angle: If wisdom teeth grow crooked or push against other teeth, they can cause pain, swelling, and tenderness.
Impaction: When wisdom teeth don’t fully emerge, they can become stuck (impacted), leading to infection, jaw stiffness, and discomfort if a communication with the oral cavity develops.
Cysts: A cyst (fluid-filled sac) can form around an impacted tooth, harming your jawbone and causing pain.
Overcrowding: New molars may push existing teeth out of alignment, causing soreness.
Cavities: Since wisdom teeth are hard to clean, they’re more likely to develop decay, leading to toothaches.

How to Relieve Wisdom Tooth Pain

Here are some simple ways to ease the discomfort:

Cold Compress: Apply an ice pack to your face to reduce swelling and numb the pain.
Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: Medicines like ibuprofen or Tylenol can help manage the ache.
Numbing Gels: Gels with benzocaine can be applied to your gums for temporary relief.

While these methods can help with pain, they don’t solve the root problem. If your wisdom teeth are causing trouble, it’s important to see your oral surgeon. They can assess whether extraction is the best solution to protect your dental health.

About Topeka Oral Surgery

At Topeka Oral Surgery, patients receive high quality care from experienced oral surgeons. They specialize in wisdom tooth removal, dental implants, and more, tailoring treatments to each person’s needs. Using advanced technology, they ensure precise and effective results.

If you’re experiencing pain, please fill out our request for an appointment form below or simply call our office at 785 228 0500 to schedule a consultation. We can always find time for an additional consult, especially if you are in pain.

Request an Appointment

Appointment

Hours of Operation

Monday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Tuesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Wednesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Thursday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Saturday: By Appointment

Sunday: Closed

Monday - Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Saturday: By Appointment

Sunday: Closed

What are Dry Sockets After Wisdom Teeth Removal?

Posted on December 28, 2024March 3, 2025 by admin

What are Dry Sockets After Wisdom Teeth Removal?

Understanding and Preventing Dry Socket After Wisdom Tooth Removal

Wisdom tooth removal is a common procedure that most people undergo without significant issues. However, some individuals may experience a condition called dry socket, which happens when the blood clot protecting the healing site is dislodged, leaving the area exposed. This can cause pain and slow recovery if not treated promptly. They happen <5% of the time, meaning 5/100 patients.

What is a Dry Socket?

After a wisdom tooth is removed, a blood clot forms to cover and protect the underlying bone and nerves while the area heals. If this clot is disturbed, the socket may be exposed, leading to discomfort and potential complications. Dry sockets are more common with lower wisdom teeth and can cause symptoms such as:

Pain that spreads to nearby areas like the ear or temple.
Sensitivity to food or drinks.
Visible bone in the socket.

Causes of Dry Socket

According to Topeka Oral Surgery Dry socket can develop due to:

Using a straw or any activity that creates suction.
Food or debris getting stuck in the extraction site.
Poor wound care, such as touching the area with your hands.
Smoking
Age > 25 years old is a risk factor
Taking Birth control is a risk factor

At Topeka Oral Surgery, we provide tools like a plastic syringe to help rinse the area gently and reduce the risk of complications. We advise you to wait 48-72 hrs to begin to rinse after meals to ensure the clot has stabilize first in the extraction sites.

Tips to Prevent Dry Socket

Here’s how to protect your healing site:

Practice Adequate oral hygiene (2-3 times daily)
Follow all post-procedure instructions.
Rinse your mouth gently after meals to remove debris.
Stick to soft foods and liquids during recovery.
Avoid carbonated drinks and straws.
Keep the area clean without touching it directly.
Avoid Smoking post operatively

Treating Dry Socket

If you suspect a dry socket, we recommend you:

Clean the area and remove trapped debris with a syringe.
Prescribe antibiotics if there are signs of infection (swelling)
Call us to schedule a follow up if the above does not improve within 48 hrs after rinsing the site.

Schedule Your Appointment

Wisdom tooth extraction can improve your oral health, but proper aftercare is essential to a smooth recovery. At Topeka Oral Surgery, we are committed to providing expert care and guidance every step of the way. Contact our office in Topeka, Kansas, to schedule your consultation today!

Request an Appointment

Appointment

Hours of Operation

Monday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Tuesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Wednesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Thursday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Saturday: By Appointment

Sunday: Closed

Monday - Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Saturday: By Appointment

Sunday: Closed