Unfortunately, some teeth need to be extracted. Multiple issues can lead to needing an extraction, including an infected root canal-treated tooth, a tooth broken at the gum line, badly positioned wisdom teeth, severe periodontal disease (gum disease), and other dental conditions.
At Millennium Dental Associates, we provide tooth extractions in Scottsdale using a biological approach that considers both the removal of the tooth and the healing of the surrounding tissues.
One reason to see a biological dentist for this procedure is to make sure the periodontal ligament is completely removed from the tooth socket. Any tissue left behind may interfere with the normal healing process of the alveolar bone (jawbone), which may contribute to the development of a cavitation, also called NICO (neuralgia-inducing cavitational osteonecrosis).
Our Protocol for Tooth Extractions
Our biological extraction protocol focuses on conservative tooth removal, thorough cleaning of the socket, and supporting the body throughout the recovery process.
Depending on the individual case, our protocol may include:
- We recommend homeopathic drops before and after surgery to support lymphatic drainage, liver function, and dental pain management during recovery.
- For most cases, we recommend PRF to help support healing and recovery. See more details below.
- Conscious sedation is available if desired in the form of MillCalm or nitrous oxide.
- Anesthetic without epinephrine is used for your comfort.
- Traumeel, a natural homeopathic product, is injected into the surgical site as part of our recovery protocol.
- The extraction is performed in the most conservative way possible.
- The tooth socket is thoroughly cleaned using rotary and hand instruments.
- The socket is also treated with ozone.
- PRF and a bone graft, if needed, are placed in the socket.
- Biocompatible suture material is used to close the surgical site.
- Infrared light is used for approximately 20 to 30 minutes to biostimulate the tissue and support recovery.
The exact procedure may vary depending on the tooth being extracted and the condition of the surrounding bone and tissues.
Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF)
Platelet-rich fibrin, or PRF, is an important part of our biological tooth extraction protocol and is recommended for most cases.
PRF is obtained by drawing a small amount of the patient’s own blood and spinning it in a centrifuge. This process allows us to isolate a concentrated fibrin plug containing platelets, growth factors, and leukocytes.
Once prepared, the PRF is placed directly into the extraction socket. It can be used as an absorbable membrane or to help fill the socket and support the body’s natural healing process following the extraction.
Because PRF is created from the patient’s own blood, it provides an autologous material that can be incorporated directly into the surgical site as part of the recovery protocol.
Wisdom Tooth & Other Dental Extractions
Our Scottsdale dental team can evaluate teeth that may require extraction for a variety of reasons, including damaged or infected teeth, severe periodontal disease, teeth broken near the gum line, and problematic wisdom teeth.
Every case is evaluated individually to determine whether an extraction is necessary and which biological treatments may be appropriate as part of the procedure.
If the extracted tooth will eventually need to be replaced, our team can also discuss restorative options, including metal-free zirconia dental implants, once the area is ready for treatment.
