Oral surgery
Oral surgery
Not every tooth can be saved, and not every gum problem resolves on its own. As a specialist in oral and maxillofacial surgery, I perform the surgical procedures that go beyond the scope of general dentistry in my practices in St. Andrä‑Wördern, Frankenfels and Thörl – from extraction, i.e. pulling a tooth, to apicoectomy and gum surgery. Many of these procedures are carried out on referral from your dentist when a finding requires specialist surgical care. The aim is always to restore your oral health with the gentlest possible procedure and to prevent damage to neighbouring teeth or the jawbone.
When is a surgical procedure necessary?
Dental surgery may become necessary when a tooth can no longer be saved because of deep decay, an accident, a vertical root fracture or advanced periodontitis – the tooth then has to be pulled. If pulling the tooth is difficult because of curved roots or brittle tooth structure, I remove it surgically, preserving as much bone as possible. Even if inflammation at the root tip persists or returns despite careful root canal treatment, an apicoectomy is often the gentlest way to keep the tooth. Gum surgery is used when tooth necks are exposed because the gums have receded, when a short or unfavourably attached lip or tongue frenulum impairs oral hygiene or tooth position, or when additional stable soft tissue has to be created before an implant is placed. Supernumerary, impacted or unerupted teeth that block neighbouring teeth from erupting or hinder planned orthodontic treatment also fall within this field and are removed surgically after a thorough examination.
What does the treatment involve?
Every treatment starts with a thorough examination including an X-ray to clarify the exact findings, assess possible risks and plan the procedure precisely. Most procedures – tooth extraction, apicoectomy, gum correction – are carried out as outpatient procedures under local anaesthesia and take between 20 and 60 minutes depending on their extent. In an apicoectomy, the inflamed root tip is exposed through a small opening in the gum, the inflamed tissue and the root tip itself are removed, and the root canal is sealed tightly from the root tip end – so the tooth is preserved. In gum surgery, tissue is taken, repositioned or removed depending on the goal and secured with fine sutures. After the procedure, I explain in detail what you should look out for in the following days.
How does healing go?
Most procedures heal without complications. In the first one to two days, mild swelling, a feeling of pressure or a small bruise may occur, which can be relieved well by consistent cooling in the first hours. You should avoid physical exertion, heat (sauna, hot baths), alcohol and nicotine for the first few days, as they can delay wound healing. Soft food that is not too hot also makes eating easier during this time. Depending on the material used, sutures either dissolve on their own or are removed after about a week. Complete bone healing of the treated area usually takes several weeks, regardless of how well you feel.
What does the procedure cost?
In my practices in St. Andrä-Wördern, Thörl and Frankenfels, I provide dental surgery as a service covered by statutory health insurance, billed directly through the practice's contract with the insurer at the official rates – there are no additional costs for you, you only need your e-card (Austrian health insurance card). A consultation before the procedure is possible at all my locations.
Personal consultation before every treatment
Before every treatment I take time for a detailed personal consultation: together we go through your medical history, discuss realistic expectations and answer all open questions before you decide on an appointment. Only with a complete medical history and a careful examination can I assess whether a treatment is suitable for you and which approach makes sense in your case.
Frequently asked questions
Does having a tooth pulled hurt?
The procedure is carried out under local anaesthesia. You stay awake and usually only feel pressure or touch. In the first one to two days afterwards, mild swelling or a feeling of pressure may occur, which can be relieved well by cooling.
How long does a dental surgical procedure take?
Usually 20 to 60 minutes, depending on its extent. Most procedures – tooth removal, apicoectomy or gum correction – are outpatient procedures, so you can go home the same day.
How long will I be restricted after a tooth extraction?
Usually one to two days. For the first few days you should avoid physical exertion, sauna, alcohol and nicotine. Complete bone healing takes several weeks.
What does a tooth extraction cost?
In my practices in St. Andrä‑Wördern, Thörl and Frankenfels it is covered by statutory health insurance: you only need your e‑card, and there are no additional costs for you.
Would you like a consultation?
Arrange a non-binding appointment – I will get back to you as soon as possible.
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