Name of the Procedure:

Removal of Impacted Tooth - Soft Tissue (D7220) Common name: Impacted Tooth Extraction Technical/Medical term: Surgical Extraction of Impacted Tooth (Soft Tissue)

Summary

This surgical procedure involves the removal of a tooth that is impacted, meaning it has not fully erupted through the gum line and is trapped beneath the soft tissue.

Purpose

The procedure addresses dental issues such as pain, infection, and potential damage to adjacent teeth caused by impacted teeth. The goal is to remove the impacted tooth to alleviate symptoms and prevent future oral health complications.

Indications

• Persistent pain due to an impacted tooth
• Swelling or infection in the gums
• Tooth decay or gum disease around an impacted tooth
• Orthodontic indications to improve teeth alignment
• Preventive measure to avoid complications from impacted wisdom teeth

Preparation

• Fasting may be required for a few hours prior to the procedure.
• Adjustments to medications, like blood thinners, may be necessary.
• Pre-procedure assessments could include dental X-rays to evaluate the position of the impacted tooth.

Procedure Description

1. The patient receives local anesthesia, and in some cases, sedation.
2. The surgeon makes an incision in the gum to expose the impacted tooth.
3. Special dental instruments are used to remove any bone blocking access to the tooth.
4. The tooth is carefully extracted.
5. The surgical site is cleaned and may be stitched closed to promote healing.
6. Gauze is applied to control bleeding.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the complexity of the case.

Setting

The procedure is usually performed in a dental office or outpatient surgical center.

Personnel

• Oral Surgeon or Dentist
• Dental Assistant or Nurse
• Anesthesiologist (if sedation is used)

Risks and Complications

• Common risks: Pain, swelling, bleeding, and infection.
• Rare risks: Nerve damage, sinus issues (if upper teeth are involved), or jaw fracture.
• Management includes pain relief medications, antibiotics, and follow-up visits.

Benefits

The primary benefit is the alleviation of pain and prevention of further oral complications, often realized within days to weeks after the procedure.

Recovery

• Post-procedure care includes ice packs for swelling, prescribed pain medications, and soft foods.
• Patients should avoid smoking, strenuous activities, and using straws.
• Full recovery generally takes about 1-2 weeks, with stitches removed or dissolving within this time.

Alternatives

• Observation: If the tooth is not causing issues, monitoring may be an option.
• Orthodontic treatment: Sometimes braces help mitigate the issues caused by an impacted tooth.
  • Pros: Non-surgical approach.
  • Cons: May not provide a permanent solution to discomfort or infection risk.

Patient Experience

Patients typically feel numbness during the procedure due to local anesthesia, with some pressure but no pain. Post-procedure, some discomfort and swelling are common, managed with prescribed medications and home care measures like ice packs.