Procedures can vary depending on the tooth and the disease process. Prior to any extraction, a nerve block that lasts between 6-8 hours is provided to help minimize oral pain and discomfort.
With surgical extractions, we normally make incisions in the adjacent gum tissue to create a flap and provide access to the tooth. We often need to remove the bone that overlies each root, section the tooth into individual roots and extract each root separately. The alveolus (socket) is flushed to remove any debris, and the extraction site is closed with absorbable sutures.
In some cases, we can extract a tooth without the need for incisions and bone removal. In these cases, we carefully elevate each root individually and close the extraction site with absorbable sutures.
The risks associated with extractions depend on the tooth involved. Unlike people, dogs and cats do not experience “dry sockets,” and their recovery is quick. Aside from temporary oral discomfort and minor bleeding, most procedures go without complications, and these patients feel great.