TOOTH EXTRACTIONS

A tooth may have to be extracted if you are experiencing extreme sensitivity, or if you have issues with decay as a result of advanced periodontal disease. In many cases, the dentist can safely remove the affected tooth without the need for major surgery.

Reasons for a tooth extraction

A simple extraction can help alleviate pain or prepare you for another cosmetic or restorative procedure. Some common reasons for extraction include:

• Removing a fractured or malformed tooth
• Advanced periodontal disease that has loosened the tooth roots
• Extra teeth or baby teeth that impede adult teeth
• Severe tooth decay which cannot be remedied with root canal therapy
• Preparing a patient for orthodontic treatment

What is the procedure to have a tooth extracted?

As a precaution, the dentist will first take X-rays of the tooth or teeth in question, to help plan the procedure. After preparing a method of extraction, you will be given a local anesthetic that will prevent you from feeling pain during the procedure. Next, the dentist will use a tool called an elevator to lift the tooth and loosen ligaments and gum tissue around the base of the tooth. Finally, the dentist will use a pair of forceps, to gently rock the tooth back and forth until it breaks free of the ligaments holding it in the gum tissue. Occasionally, a stubborn tooth will resist the dentist’s soft tug, refusing to come out. In these and more complex cases, the tooth may need to be broken up into smaller pieces for removal.

Once removed, we will pack gauze into the socket and have you place pressure on the area by biting down. If necessary, the dentist will place stitches to close the socket.

If you are sick the week prior to your scheduled extraction or on the day of, please contact our office, as alternative arrangements may need to be made.