Teeth Extractions
You and Dr. Sherban or Dr. Witkowski 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 removal of a single tooth can lead to problems related to your chewing ability, problems with your jaw joint, and shifting teeth, which can have a major impact on your dental health.
To avoid these complications, in most cases, Dr. Sherban or Dr. Witkowski will discuss alternatives to extractions as well as replacement of the extracted tooth.
Call us with any questions or to make an appointment.
423-283-4555 Book OnlineThe Extraction Process
At the time of extraction your oral surgeon will need to numb your tooth, jaw bone and gums that surround the area with a local anesthetic.
During the extraction process you may feel 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.
If you do feel pain at any time during the extraction please let us know right away.
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. Your oral surgeon simply cuts the tooth into sections then removes each section one at a time.
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, or drink alcohol. 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. Call our office if the medication doesn’t seem to be working. 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 at Johnson City Office Phone Number 423-283-4555.
The Regional Center for Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery
Patient Review By Kim M
Sweet people and very knowledgeable. I was quite apprehensive about getting a molar pulled. They made sure I numb and pulled it quickly. I had to return due to dry socket and they again made me feel much better. Thank you Dr S.
- Kim M
Patient Review By Thomas E
Looking forward to my surgery to get these teeth pulled
- Thomas E
Patient Review By Jeremy S
A well deserved 5 out of 5 stars! Two thumbs up! Dr. Matthew Sherban and staff was very friendly, caring, thorough, and professional through the whole process. They ensured I understood what to expect and asked if I had any questions. The staff kept me notified of my appointment and how to prepare for it. Dr. Matthew Sherban was a pleasue to work with and felt at ease with his professionalism. Extremely satisfied with my experience and my results! I would recommend to everyone who is looking for oral and maxillofacial service! Two thumbs up!
- Jeremy S
Patient Review By Michael C
This was my first time having work done by Dr. Witkowski and I'm glad I did. Dr. Witkowski made me feel so comfortable. The entire team was so caring and professional. I have to return and have more work done, but I'm totally at ease with the entire staff. I know they have my best interest in mind and they are so gentle. I would recommend anyone needing dental surgery to have it done with is awesome team. Thank you all for how you cared for me. Those five stars are well deserved.
- Michael C
Patient Review By Jo Jo T
I have an upcoming extraction next month, which will be my 2nd out of this office. I was very impressed with the whole staff's willingness to make you feel comfortable while you are in there care. Penny was excellent, very knowledgeable to anything you ask her. The dentist, made me feel like I was in very good hands. I recommend to anyone that has any dental work to be done, go you want regret it...
- Jo Jo T
Patient Review By Dianna Y
Going to a dentist is always hard but the staff and dr made my visit very easy and made me feel so relaxed. You feel like a part of the family here. Would recommend them to anyone.
- Dianna Y
Patient Review By Shawn S
A great place to come everyone was friendly and nice
- Shawn S
Patient Review By Marlene W
I just want to say that everyone at this office was awesome!!!
- Marlene W
Patient Review By Veronica J
Penny is awesome. She has such a wonderful disposition. Dr. Witkowski is such a wonderful doctor. I love coming here. Thank you.
- Veronica J
Patient Review By Lori H
Penny is a sweetheart she is awesome and made my experience a less scary procedure
- Lori H
Patient Review By Lori M
This has been my first experience with this practice, and it has been great. If I ever need an oral surgeon again, I will definitely seek care here. The physician was super-kind as well as all of the staff, and their extraordinary care and expertise was very evident in the services I received. I've had a couple of not-so-great experiences in the past at another practice, but Dr. Witkowski's office has truly earned my customer loyalty for any future needs. God bless you, Doc, and all of your staff, and thanks again for being there to help me when I was in so much pain.
- Lori M
Patient Review By Charles R
I appreciate the friendliness of the entire staff responsible for my surgery. Staff was excellent and doctor was great. Cristy and Jessica and Penny especially! and doctor was professional kind and really helped my recover process with there're professional work etiquette and dedication. First time in 12 years I have had no pain an experience that is priceless, thank you.
- Charles R
Patient Review By Sandra P
Dr Witkowski was very friendly and all staff was courteous.
- Sandra P
Patient Review By Johnny B
Everything went very well. Would recommend to anyone. Really liked Dr. Witkowski!
- Johnny B
Patient Review By Dew M
Everyone was fantastic.
- Dew M
Patient Review By Joseph C
The staff was all very nice and went above to make me comfortable and the dr. Was very good also
- Joseph C
Patient Review By Barbara B
Visit was wonderful! Had multiple teeth extracted and they took such good care of me!!!
- Barbara B
Patient Review By Betty M
Dr. Witkowski was just wonderful. Staff are very caring.
- Betty M
Patient Review By Eric B
The whole staff is wonderful
- Eric B
Patient Review By John M
Easy to schedule and staff excellent.
- John M