Q: I recently cracked my 1st molar on the bottom and that now needs to be extracted (previous root canal). There is no infection-it was an accident. I’m going to get implants to replace it and the second molar I’m already missing. How traumatic will this be? And how difficult will the recovery be? My oral surgeon says it won’t be that bad. I’ve had 2 front teeth extracted with implants placed and love them, and it was easy. However, I’ve heard that molar extractions are very difficult. Thoughts?
A: If the extraction is done using careful and gentle surgical techniques, then the procedure should be uneventful. In our private practice and at our Columbia University School of Dental Medicine and Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center(more) Post Graduate Periodontics/Implants center, we utilize the laser for many of our extractions to promote quicker healing. We see minimal post-operative infections and dry sockets. If the bone is adequate, we can often do an immediate implant. However, if the bone is “lacking”, then we wait for approximately 3 months for placement.
