EXTRACTIONS
What is an Extraction?
Extractions may sometimes be needed if one or more of your teeth poses a risk to your dental health. They can be done on patients of all ages and are only done when the benefit of removing the tooth is far greater than leaving the tooth in place. Extractions are simple surgical procedures that can be done in minutes in our office. We help to provide other treatments in place of extractions when available.
Why is an Extraction needed?
Extractions are normally needed when a tooth is a problem to your oral and dental health. They might be a last resort for when other treatments have failed. Some of the reasons we may suggest an extraction include:
- Stubborn baby teeth
- A tooth that’s broken or cracked below the gum line
- A tooth is severely decayed
- A tooth is loose due to periodontal disease
- You want to avoid the expense and time of other procedures
- Impacted wisdom teeth
Who is a good candidate for an Extraction?
We first examine your teeth to determine if you might need an extraction. There may be other treatment options available that can save the tooth. If an extraction is done, we’ll often advise and recommend procedures to replace the missing dentition. By replacing the missing tooth, it can prevent eventual shifting of the teeth and jaw.
What happens during the Extraction process?
The procedure begins by administering sedation or anesthesia of your choosing. We then use special tools to loosen and lift the tooth from its socket. The gums may receive sutures depending on the tooth’s placement. You’ll go home biting down on a piece of gauze and will be given instructions on how to care for the surgical site. Over-the-counter pain medications are often enough to get rid of any extraction pain that you might experience. We are here to take your call if you experience any type of post-operative complication.
If you think you might need an extraction and are ready to come in for an appointment, call us now and we will help to answer your questions.