Tooth Extractions & Bone Grafting at Serenity Smiles

in Miramar Beach & Destin, FL

When a tooth can’t be saved, you still have options for protecting your long-term oral health. At Serenity Smiles, we perform gentle tooth extractions and offer bone grafting to help preserve the jaw structure for future dental restorations. Whether you're in pain, planning ahead for treatment, or managing an emergency, we’ll make the process smooth and stress-free.

What Is a Tooth Extraction?

A tooth extraction is the complete removal of a tooth from its socket in the jawbone. While we always aim to save your natural teeth whenever possible, an extraction may be the healthiest choice if a tooth is too damaged, infected, or compromised to treat with a root canal or filling.

Common reasons for extractions:

• Severe decay or infection
  
• Cracked or fractured teeth below the gumline
  
• Advanced periodontal (gum) disease
  
• Overcrowding prior to orthodontics
  
• Impacted or problematic wisdom teeth
  
• Preparation for dentures
  

We use a gentle and conservative approach, only recommending extractions when necessary and with your comfort as our top priority.

Wisdom Teeth Removal: What You Should Know

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, typically emerge in the late teens or early twenties. For many patients, these teeth don’t have enough space to come in properly—causing them to become impacted, misaligned, or only partially erupted.

Left untreated, problematic wisdom teeth can lead to:

• Pain or pressure in the back of the mouth
  
• Infections and inflammation around the gums
  
• Damage to adjacent teeth or bone
  
• Difficulty brushing or flossing in hard-to-reach areas
  
• Development of cysts or decay
  

At Serenity Smiles, we evaluate wisdom teeth using digital X-rays and 3D CBCT scans to determine if removal is necessary. If so, we’ll carefully walk you through the process, which may involve a surgical extraction under local anesthesia for your comfort.

What Is Bone Grafting?

After a tooth is removed, the bone in that area begins to shrink naturally over time—a process called resorption. This can create problems later if you want a dental implant, bridge, or denture.

A bone graft helps preserve your jaw structure by placing grafting material into the empty socket immediately after extraction. This encourages your body to build new bone, maintaining the strength and shape of your jaw.

Why bone grafting matters:

• Prepares the site for a future implant
  
• Maintains facial contour and bite alignment
  
• Helps avoid complicated bone loss later
  
• Makes dentures and bridges fit more securely
  

What Type of Bone Graft Do We Use?

We use biocompatible bone grafting material, often derived from sterilized donor bone, that acts as a scaffold your body can replace over time with its own natural bone. It’s a safe, effective way to stabilize the area and set the stage for future restoration.

What to Expect During an Extraction with Bone Graft

1. Numbing & Comfort

We start with local anesthetic to ensure you’re completely numb and comfortable.

2. Tooth Removal

The tooth is gently loosened and removed using precise, specialized tools.

3. Bone Graft Placement (if needed)

Graft material is placed into the socket, followed by a protective membrane.

4. Sutures & Healing

If necessary, we close the area with dissolvable stitches and review detailed aftercare instructions.

Aftercare & Recovery

You’ll receive full instructions after your visit, but here’s what you can typically expect:

• Mild soreness and swelling for 2–3 days
  
• Soft foods are best during the first few days
  
• Avoid smoking, drinking through straws, or vigorous rinsing for 24–48 hours
  
• Bone graft healing time: 3–6 months
  
• Standard extraction healing: 1–2 weeks
  

We’ll follow up with you during the healing process and keep you informed of the next steps, whether that’s placing an implant or exploring other options like bridges or dentures.

Why Choose Serenity Smiles for Tooth Extractions?

• Gentle, conservative care focused on long-term health
  
• Experienced in both routine and complex extractions
  
• Bone preservation expertise to support future restorative needs
  
• Clear communication and planning—we’ll help you decide what comes next
  

Whether you’re dealing with sudden pain, considering dental implants, or planning full-mouth treatment, we’re here to make the process simple, supportive, and comfortable.