Sometimes, teeth need to be extracted due to injury or disease. Our first priority at Dental Choice is to provide thorough cleanings and general dentistry treatments so that patients’ teeth are healthy and less likely to require removal in the future.
Consultations for
Tooth Extractions
Our dentists consider tooth extractions as a final option as preserving natural teeth is preferable. However, there are several situations where single or multiple tooth extractions may be necessary, such as severe tooth decay, impacted wisdom teeth, or when creating space for orthodontic appliances.
In case of severe sensitivity or advanced periodontal disease, a tooth extraction may be necessary. A simple extraction procedure can be used to safely remove the affected tooth without requiring extensive surgical intervention.
If you are considering a tooth extraction, it’s best to consult with a Dental Choice dentist to determine if it is the appropriate course of action for your specific dental needs.
What are the
Reasons for a Tooth Extraction
Tooth extractions are a common procedure, but they are typically used as a last resort when no other options are available to save the tooth. Some of the main reasons for tooth extraction are:
- Deep Decay – The most common reason for extraction is decay to the tooth’s surface and pulp, as root canal therapy may not be effective if the tooth structure is unstable.
- Extra Teeth – Baby teeth that do not shed can cause neighboring teeth to shift out of place, making it necessary to extract them for proper realignment.
- Periodontal Disease – Advanced gum disease can cause teeth to loosen by eroding the gums and supporting bone, often requiring extraction since the chance of saving them is low.
- Prior to Braces – If traditional orthodontic braces require more space for the teeth to move into their ideal position, tooth extraction may be considered.
- Fractured Teeth – Root canal therapy can save most injured teeth, but sometimes extraction is necessary when a tooth is severely fractured beyond repair, and a prosthetic replacement is used to fill the gap.
What is the
Tooth Extraction Procedure?
Tooth extraction can range from simple to complex procedures.
Simple extractions are performed on fully emerged teeth with local anesthesia applied to the treatment area. Dental forceps are used to remove the tooth after the periodontal ligament is severed.
Surgical extractions are performed on invisible or inaccessible teeth like wisdom teeth, requiring an incision in the gum tissue and sometimes bone removal.
If you have any queries or concerns, schedule a consultation with a Dental Choice dentist today.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tooth Extractions
Why would I need a tooth extracted?
Will I feel anything during the tooth extraction?
Your doctor will use local anesthesia before beginning the procedure to ensure you don’t feel any pain. Additionally, we offer sedation techniques so that the procedure is as comfortable as possible and will minimize discomfort during dental surgery.
Why am I being referred to an oral surgeon for my extraction?
Dental Choice dentists will review options to best suit your dental needs and requirements. You might need to see an oral surgeon for a dental implant or the treatment of tumors and cysts in the jaw. Oral surgery may also be required to solve cosmetic dental and reconstructive dental problems. Tooth extraction is the most recognized form of oral surgery, but there are several other reasons why your dentist may refer you to an oral surgeon. The reasons include the following:
- Removal of one or more teeth
- Emergency wisdom teeth extraction
- Replacement of missing teeth using dental implants
- Treating obstructive sleep apnea
- Treating serious conditions affecting the teeth, lips, jaw, palate and face
- Alleviating problems caused by a tooth infection, facial swelling or facial pain
- Reconstructing the maxillofacial region after a serious accident or an injury
- Removing a tumor caused by cancer in the jaw, face and neck area
What does a tooth extraction cost?
Pricing for dental extractions varies depending on a number of factors. These factors include:
- Examination and x-rays needed to diagnose the tooth’s condition
- The level of difficulty of the extraction
- The degree to which the tooth is visible (for example, wisdom teeth are often buried in the gums, making their removal more complicated)
- If sedation methods are used
What are my options once the tooth has been extracted?
Our dentists will discuss solutions such as dental implants, dental bridges, and dentures to replace teeth that are removed.
What can I expect after a tooth extraction?
You may experience some swelling, bleeding, and discomfort after a tooth extraction, but these symptoms usually subside within a few days.
How can I care for my mouth after a tooth extraction?
Your dentist will provide you with specific aftercare instructions, which may include taking pain medications, eating soft foods, avoiding straws, rinsing with warm saltwater, and applying ice packs to reduce swelling.
How long does it take to recover from a tooth extraction?
Recovery time varies depending on the individual and the complexity of the extraction, but most people can return to their normal activities within a few days.
What are the risks associated with tooth extraction?
There is a risk of infection, bleeding, nerve damage, and damage to neighboring teeth or structures. Your dentist will discuss these risks with you before the procedure.
Schedule A Consultation to See if a Tooth Extraction is Required for You!
If you are concerned you may need a tooth extracted, schedule a consultation with one of our experienced dentists at Dental Choice today!