Expert Care for Safe Tooth Extractions
Our goal as dental professionals is to help you maintain a healthy smile with all your natural teeth. However, there are times when saving a tooth is not possible.
Tooth extraction may be necessary due to crowding, disease, or trauma. No matter the reason, we approach each extraction with care and compassion. Although the term "oral surgery" may sound daunting, most extractions are routine and straightforward. Our experienced dentist will perform the procedure with precision, ensuring a smooth recovery and optimal results.
If left untreated, a problematic tooth can cause pain, infection, and further dental issues. Removing the tooth can help prevent these problems and improve your overall oral health.
What Is a Tooth Extraction?
Tooth extraction refers to the removal of a tooth, and the most common type many are familiar with is wisdom tooth removal. Wisdom teeth are often extracted due to their potential to cause problems such as infection or crowding of nearby teeth. However, there are several other reasons for tooth extractions, including:
- Severe tooth decay
- Damaged, broken, or infected teeth
- Teeth that do not erupt properly (or at all)
- Gum disease
- Creating space for teeth to shift during orthodontic treatment
- Side effects from certain medications or treatments
Determining the Best Extraction Method
To determine which type of extraction is necessary, we will take X-rays to assess the condition of your tooth. If extraction is required, the dentist will administer a local anesthetic to numb the tooth and surrounding area. For patients feeling anxious about the procedure, dental sedation options are available to help you feel more comfortable. Please note that if you receive sedation, you will need someone to drive you home afterward.
For a simple extraction, the process is straightforward. The goal is to lift the tooth from its socket. To do this, the dentist will gently widen the socket using an instrument called an elevator. This tool helps loosen the tooth, making it easier to remove with forceps (similar to pliers or tweezers). While you may feel some pressure as the tooth is removed, the local anesthesia will ensure you don’t feel any pain. Once the tooth is out, the dentist will clean the empty socket and place medical gauze to control any bleeding.
Simple Extraction vs. Surgical Extraction
There are two primary types of tooth extractions: simple and surgical.
A simple extraction is a basic, minimally invasive procedure used when the tooth is fully visible in the mouth. In this case, the dentist can easily remove the tooth without affecting the surrounding bone or gums. This procedure is straightforward and typically requires only local anesthesia, making it quick and comfortable for the patient.
A surgical extraction is required when a tooth or part of a tooth is located below the gumline. In this more complex procedure, the dentist or oral surgeon must make a small incision in the gum to access the tooth. In some cases, a small amount of bone may also need to be removed to extract stubborn tooth fragments. Since this is a surgical procedure, stitches are necessary, and pain medication may be prescribed to aid in the recovery process.
Tooth Extraction Aftercare
Proper aftercare is crucial for a smooth recovery after a tooth extraction. Whether you’ve had a simple or surgical extraction, following your dentist’s or oral surgeon’s instructions is key to preventing complications and ensuring proper healing.
After the extraction, the empty socket will fill with a blood clot, which acts as a natural bandage to stop bleeding and begin the healing process. It's essential to avoid disturbing the clot. For the first few days, refrain from smoking, using straws, spitting, or blowing your nose, as these actions can dislodge the clot and lead to a painful condition called dry socket. If you experience a dry socket, contact us immediately for treatment.
By following the aftercare instructions, most healing will occur within one to two weeks. However, losing a tooth can cause changes in your jaw and teeth alignment. To prevent further dental issues, you may want to consider replacing the missing tooth with a dental bridge or implant. Contact us to learn more about your options for restoring your smile.