Oral
Surgery
Being told you need a tooth removed can raise more questions than answers. How long will it take, and when can you get back to work? At Dr Kagiso Moloi and Associates, these questions are answered before your procedure is booked, so you know what to expect.
What Is Oral Surgery?
Oral surgery covers procedures on the teeth and jaw that go beyond routine dentistry. The most common is the surgical removal of a tooth that cannot be taken out simply, such as a wisdom tooth trapped below the gum. It also covers smaller procedures that prepare the mouth for a replacement tooth, whether it’s a dental implant or a partial or full denture.
When Might You Need It?
- Wisdom teeth that are impacted or keep getting infected
- A tooth that has broken beyond repair
- A tooth that cannot be saved because of deep decay or advanced gum disease
- Teeth that need to come out to create space before braces are fitted
What Happens On The Day?
Before surgery, Dr Moloi will review your X-rays and medical history. Let the dental practice know about any health conditions, especially if you take blood thinners. The procedure is done under local anaesthetic, so you should feel pressure but not sharp pain. Most surgical extractions are finished within an hour, and you go home the same day. Routine cases do not usually need a referral out of town, as a dentist in Windhoek can manage them in the chair.
How Should You Care For Your Mouth Afterwards?
Some swelling and discomfort for a few days is normal. A blood clot forms in the socket and needs protecting. For the first day, avoid smoking and drinking through a straw, as both can dislodge the clot. You will be given aftercare instructions before you leave the dental practice.
If bleeding does not settle with gentle pressure, or the pain increases after the third day, contact the practice.
Can The Tooth Be Saved Instead?
Before recommending an extraction, Dr Moloi will look at whether the tooth can be kept, for example with a large filling or a protective crown. When removal is the right call, any follow-up, from a stitch check to planning a replacement, stays close to home with a dentist in Windhoek who already knows your history.