The patient presented to us after having a wisdom tooth extracted at an oral surgeon's office. The tooth in front of the one she just had removed appeared to have a black spot on the side surface and the biting surface was worn. The gum tissue surrounding the tooth appeared inflamed and overgrown. Upon examination, there appeared to be a "flap" of tissue between the extraction site and existing tooth where a drainage of pus had developed and an x-ray confirmed that decay was present as well. Dr. Patel prescribed antibiotics and drained the infection site. The decay was cleaned out of the tooth and a composite "tooth-colored" filling was placed. The patient returned a few days later for laser treatment. Dr. Patel used our Waterlase laser to remove the overgrowth of tissue surrounding her tooth as well as all remaining infection inside and around the bone. The patient returned regularly for follow up appointments to monitor the area and was able to continue with her regular hygiene schedule in our office.
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