Tooth Extractions
Relief from jaw pain and headaches .
This service
Tooth Extractions
Relief from jaw pain and headaches .
Tooth Extractions
Specialty Surgical Care You Can Trust
At Tallahassee Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, treatment is provided by Dr. Ricardo Ortiz, a dual-degree MD, DMD oral and maxillofacial surgeon with advanced hospital-based surgical training. Dr. Ortiz is a Harvard graduate with extensive military experience, including service in high-acuity and combat environments, which further strengthens his ability to manage both routine and complex surgical cases.
Our practice uses modern digital imaging, IV sedation, and evidence-based surgical techniques to restore oral health, protect important anatomical structures, and support predictable healing.
Each patient receives a personalized evaluation and treatment plan designed to ensure safety, comfort, and long-term success.
About the Service
What Is Tooth Extraction?
Tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth when it cannot be preserved due to:
• advanced decay
• infection
• periodontal disease
• fracture or structural damage
• poor positioning
• orthodontic or surgical treatment planning needs
Because removing a tooth can affect chewing function, bite alignment, and neighboring teeth, careful evaluation is essential before treatment. When appropriate, Dr. Ortiz discusses alternatives to extraction as well as long-term replacement options such as bone preservation and dental implants.
Surgical Approach
Tooth extractions are performed using local anesthesia with or without IV sedation, depending on the complexity of the procedure and each patient’s medical history and comfort needs.
During treatment:
• local anesthesia numbs the tooth, surrounding gums, and jaw
• patients may feel pressure as the tooth is gently loosened from the socket
• discomfort is minimized throughout the procedure
• anesthesia levels can be adjusted at any time to maintain comfort
Patients are closely monitored throughout treatment to ensure a safe and controlled surgical experience.
Sectioning of Teeth When Necessary
Some teeth are firmly anchored in the jaw or have curved or multiple roots that make removal more complex.
In these situations:
• the tooth may be carefully divided into smaller sections
• specialized surgical techniques allow safer removal
• surrounding bone and adjacent teeth are protected
This approach improves surgical precision and supports smoother healing.
Advanced Healing Support with Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) 🧬
When appropriate, our practice uses Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) to support healing after tooth extraction.
PRF is created from a small sample of the patient’s own blood at the time of surgery and contains concentrated natural growth factors that help:
• accelerate soft-tissue healing
• reduce swelling and discomfort
• decrease the likelihood of dry socket
• support bone preservation
• improve overall recovery quality
Because PRF is derived from your own body, it is completely natural and biocompatible.
Bone Preservation After Extraction
When a tooth is removed, the surrounding bone naturally begins to shrink over time. In many cases, socket preservation bone grafting may be recommended at the time of extraction to maintain bone volume and support future dental implant placement.
Dr. Ortiz evaluates whether bone preservation is appropriate based on each patient’s long-term treatment goals.
Recovery After Tooth Extraction
Patients receive detailed post-operative instructions to support safe and predictable healing.
Recovery guidance includes:
• managing bleeding during the first 24 hours
• reducing swelling with ice packs
• maintaining proper oral hygiene
• following temporary diet modifications
• avoiding activities that may disrupt healing
Most patients experience steady improvement over several days following treatment.
Patients should contact the office if they experience:
• unusual or increasing pain
• prolonged bleeding
• swelling that worsens after several days
• signs of infection
Our team remains available to evaluate healing whenever concerns arise.
Possible Complications
Tooth extraction is a routine surgical procedure. However, as with any surgery, certain risks may occur.
These may include:
• dry socket
• infection
• temporary swelling or bruising
• delayed healing
• temporary numbness or tingling when teeth are close to nearby nerves
• sinus communication when removing certain upper teeth
Dr. Ortiz carefully evaluates these risks before treatment and discusses recommendations to support safe healing.
Preparing for Tooth Extraction
Before treatment, patients undergo:
• a comprehensive oral examination
• digital X-rays to evaluate the tooth and surrounding structures
• review of medical history and medications
• discussion of anesthesia options appropriate for the procedure
Patients should inform the office if they have medical conditions such as:
• diabetes
• bleeding disorders
• pregnancy
• heart conditions
• immune-related conditions
These factors may influence treatment planning and healing recommendations.
Goals of Treatment
Tooth extraction treatment is carefully planned to:
• relieve pain and infection
• protect surrounding teeth and bone
• support proper healing
• preserve jaw structure when possible
• prepare for future tooth replacement when indicated
Our goal is to provide safe surgical care while supporting long-term oral health, comfort, and function.
Schedule your consultation today and discover the right path for your unique transformation!
